
Learning how to use sewing patterns is just one of the primary skills in sewing.
This guide is part of the three secrets to mastering the art of using commercial sewing patterns. After learning this skill, you’ll be ready and confident to tackle your next sewing project.
What Are Digital Patterns?
These patterns are downloadable. You can either print or project them.
Most digital patterns are designed to be printed on standard-sized sheets and assembled by taping/pasting the pages together.
But you might also be curious, “What if I don’t want to tape or paste? Can you print a pattern as a whole? Or in pages larger than a standard copy paper?” Let’s find out.
PDF (Portable Document Format) is one of the most widely used formats for its versatility and ease for home sewers. You can view and print it using Adobe Acrobat Reader or other PDF viewers.
Other file formats like SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics), DXF (Drawing Exchange Formats), and AI (Adobe Illustrator) are also available. This is an option for people who know how to tweak a pattern on software.
I get it. Not all of us are familiar with the other file formats. The good news is we can always go the easy PDF route.
1. Tile Printing
How to print and assemble a pattern:
- When you download a pattern, take note of the paper size (A4, Letter) options. I always prefer Letter size because it’s easy to get at the store.
- Open your PDF pattern on your device (phone, computer).
- Click your Menu, scroll down to Print… and click it. This will take you to the Print window. Note: Print settings can be more challenging to view on a phone. Check the Print Settings –> Choose your Paper Size, and “Same as Document Size” is ON.
- The window differs for every printer but look for “Page Sizing”. Most printers are set on “Custom Scale” as default. This is not always set to 100%!
- Choose “Actual size”.
- Digital patterns have a test page (page 1)with a square you measure after printing. Print the test page and measure it. If the test page measures correctly, then print the pattern pages.
- A pattern has a page that shows the layout of all the pages to form the pattern. It shows the number of pages per row and the number of columns. Once you know this, it’s easy to assemble.
2. Projection
Using a projector in sewing patterns is becoming popular today. However, not all digital patterns are projector-friendly. The availability of projection options may vary between pattern designers and platforms.
Here are some pattern sources with projection options:
- Peppermint Magazine Patterns:
- Peppermint Magazine offers modern and sustainable sewing patterns. They often provide PDF patterns with projector-friendly options.
- Tilly and the Buttons:
- Tilly Walnes, the founder of Tilly and the Buttons, creates user-friendly patterns. Some of her patterns come with projector-friendly options.
- Cashmerette Patterns:
- Cashmerette specializes in patterns designed for curves and offers projector-friendly options for some of their patterns.
- Colette Patterns (now Seamwork):
- Seamwork, the digital pattern platform by Colette Patterns, has some patterns designed for projector use.
- Made by Rae:
- Made by Rae is known for its comfortable and stylish patterns. Some of their patterns are available with projector-friendly options.
- Sew Over It:
- Sew Over It offers a range of classic and timeless patterns. Some of their newer patterns include projector-friendly options.
- Deer and Doe:
- Deer and Doe is a French pattern company known for its modern designs. Some of their patterns include projector files.
- Closet Core Patterns:
- Closet Core Patterns, formerly known as Closet Case Patterns, provides modern and trendy designs. Some of their patterns are projector-friendly.
- Paper Theory Patterns:
- Paper Theory Patterns, created by Tara Viggo, offers contemporary sewing patterns; some have projector-friendly options.
- Itch to Stitch:
- Itch to Stitch specializes in well-drafted patterns with a focus on fit. Some of their patterns are designed for projector use.
Here’s a general guide on how to project a sewing pattern:
What You Need:
- Digital Sewing Pattern: Ensure you have the digital sewing pattern in a compatible file format (commonly PDF, A0).
- Projector: A digital projector capable of connecting to your computer or device.
- Projection Surface: A flat, clear surface where you’ll project the pattern.
Steps:
- Select a Suitable Location:
- Choose a flat surface without distortion where you can project the pattern.
- Consider the size of the projected pattern and the available space for cutting fabric.
- Set Up the Projector:
- Connect your projector to your computer or device.
- Adjust the projector settings to ensure a clear and focused image.
- Open the Digital Pattern:
- Open the digital sewing pattern on your computer or device.
- Adjust Pattern Settings:
- Most digital patterns come with a setting that allows you to choose between printing and projector options.
- Select the projector option if available.
- Calibrate the Projector:
- Some patterns provide calibration layers or reference squares to ensure accurate scaling.
- Follow the pattern’s instructions for calibration to match the projected image to the intended dimensions.
- Project the Pattern:
- Project the pattern onto the flat surface, ensuring it covers where you plan to cut your fabric.
- Adjust Scaling:
- Many patterns allow you to adjust scaling directly within the pattern viewer or projector settings.
- Use on-screen controls or pattern settings to scale the pattern pieces accurately.
- Check Measurements:
- Measure key elements or reference squares on the projected pattern to match the intended dimensions.
- Trace or Cut Directly:
- Depending on your preferred method, you can trace the pattern directly onto the fabric or cut it while it’s projected onto the cutting surface.
Tips:
- Ensure your projector and computer are set up at the exact resolution to avoid distortion.
- Test the projection and scaling on scrap fabric or paper before cutting into your main fabric.
- Follow any specific instructions provided by the pattern designer for using a projector.
If you are looking for a projector for your sewing pattern, check my Best Projector for Sewing article.
Is it possible to print a sewing pattern as a whole with actual scaling or sizing? Yes- through a…
3. Large-format Printing
Printers designed for this aren’t exclusive to commercial pattern companies and can be used at home or in sewing studios.
Large-scale printing is convenient since you skip taping/pasting your patterns by printing them in one go.
Key points to consider if you want a large-format printer:
- Cost: Large-format printers can be more expensive than standard printers. Consider your budget and printing needs before making a purchase.
- Space: These printers may require more space due to their larger size. Ensure you have adequate space in your home or studio.
- Paper Type: Use appropriate paper for sewing patterns. Many sewists prefer using pattern or tracing paper for durability and ease of handling.
- Resolution: Choose a printer with sufficient resolution for precise and accurate pattern details.
If a large format printer is feasible, they are available in inkjet and laser. Inkjet is more common for home use and provides high-quality prints.
Lage-format printer can handle paper sizes ranging from 11×17 inches (tabloid) up to 36 inches or more in width.
But if buying a large-format printer is not feasible for you, and you still want larger sizes, here’s an alternative: Local Print Shops. Stitch Sew Shop (not an affiliate link) is a great place for large-format printing specifically for sewing patterns.
Many print shops offer large-format printing, and you can provide them with a digital pattern file for printing. Just search what’s available in your region.
As a last tip, always check the specific details and features each pattern designer or platform provides when purchasing or downloading digital sewing patterns.
There you have it, a comprehensive guide on how to use sewing patterns- PDF sewing patterns.
What’s Next?
Check the other articles on sewing patterns: