What is the purpose of circle, square, dot, or triangle markings on a pattern?

The purpose of circle, square, dot, or triangle markings on a pattern is to aid in the precise placement of elements such as sleeves, pockets, and decorative features. These markings serve as visual cues to help the sewist align parts accurately when assembling a garment. For instance, a dot might indicate where to attach a pocket to a skirt, while a triangle could mark the center of a sleeve for proper alignment. These designations are crucial for ensuring that all components fit together correctly and that the overall design of the garment is maintained.

In contrast, grain lines are indicated through distinct lines that suggest how the fabric should be oriented. Seam allowances are typically noted by a specific allowance margin around the cutting lines, guiding where the stitching should occur. Cutting lines are demarcated in a way that shows where to cut the fabric for each pattern piece, but they do not typically utilize shapes like circles or triangles for that purpose. Understanding these functions helps sewists achieve professional-quality results in their projects.