Curve Runner, My New "Must Have" Sewing and Drafting Tool

Walking the curve, a critical, yet tedious process for any seamstress or pattern drafter.  One must use a ruler in teeny, tiny increments literally measuring 1/2", then pivoting the ruler to capture the next 1/2" of the curve. We all do it, because if we didn't our measurements would be inaccurate. Well, thank goodness someone was frustrated enough with the process to invent the Curve Runner.  Seriously, what a God send.   I'm so grateful that Amy blogged about this. I thought about it since June and by August, decided that yes, I really could make regular use of this tool.

All you do is place the curve runner at point zero, then roll along like a rotary cutter, measuring until you get to the end of your measurement area.  SO freakin fast!  Only thing is that you must keep track of how many turns the wheel is going through.  I ordered the 12", knowing that my measurements tend to be longer, larger.  I also thought it would be more helpful to have a longer "ruler" because it meant fewer turns to keep track of.

Above, I used it to measure all the seams where I wanted to use binding. Oh my freakin goodness. This process was so painless. My back didn't ache from leaning over my cutting table at an awkward angle to try and measure all the seams with my rulers. And, run, run, run, I'm done. I wrote down all my lengths, including the extra fun opening at the shoulder  which runs front to back, and got to cutting my bindings.  

I even used it to run along the hemline to figure out what length I would need to add a binding to the hem instead of folding the hem under. Hallelujah! I'm one happy woman!  Best 20 bucks I've spent on tools in a while. 


I'm curious, have any of you used their Pattern drafter? 

Get your own curve runner at the Curve Runner Etsy Shop.  Oh! And for those who use (or prefer) metric rather than imperial, there are options for you too!