There is a folklore that tells of someone's mother or great aunt or clever little dressmaker who could cut out any garment without a pattern. Like many a myth there is an element of truth in the story. anyone-amateur or professional-who sews a great deal can be so familiar with the shape of a sleeve or a collar or a neckline that she can cut from memory. Some day you, too, may be able to do this. In the meantime, there's safety in sticking with patterns.