When I come up with a design, I draw it on the paper. It's easier to visualize it this way. Then, I started to lay out the pattern in a small scale and modify it to make sure it fits right.
After this process, I can enlarge it to the real size on the pattern paper. At this step, I can kind of fit it on my dress form to make final modifications.
Then finally, I use the pattern to sew an actual final product.
You don't have to do what I do. I'll make it really easy to copy my patterns. I promise it's a lot less trouble then using a commercial pattern. Give it a try.
