How to Print PDF Patterns – Print, Cut, Sew (+VIDEO)

Learning how to print PDF sewing patterns is easy once you know the correct printer settings. Most PDF patterns are designed to print at 100% (actual size) and include a test square to check the scale before assembling the pages. This beginner-friendly tutorial will show you exactly how to download, print, assemble, and cut PDF sewing patterns so they print accurately every time.

What are PDF Patterns?

PDF sewing patterns are digital files containing everything you need to print and sew clothing, quilts, toys, and more. Traditional sewing patterns are printed on thin tissue paper and can be purchased from fabric stores. PDF patterns, on the other hand, are downloadable instantly, making them one of the most convenient forms of sewing patterns.

If you are new to sewing, start with my full guide on how to sew for beginners.

Advantages of PDF Patterns

• They are often cheaper than commercial patterns.
• You can print the pattern as many times as you want in different sizes. This is especially useful for sewing kids’ clothing, as you can reprint sizes as your child grows.
• You get them instantly, and there is no waiting to go to the store when you feel like sewing.
• The selection of PDF patterns available is amazing and far superior to printed patterns. Most independent designers offer modern designs in PDF form.

Disadvantages of PDF Patterns

The only real disadvantage of PDF patterns is the time needed to sticky tape the pattern pieces together. However, the advantages far outweigh this. Once you have taped a few grids together, you will think that it is no big deal.

Download Your PDF Pattern

When buying on the Treasurie site, you will get access to your pattern immediately. Just add the sewing pattern to your cart, and after you have paid, you will have a link to download it. If you can’t do that now, don’t worry, as there will also be an email sent to you with the link to download your purchase.

How to Print Sewing Patterns (Step-by-Step)

Before You Print

For the best results:

• Use Adobe Acrobat Reader rather than printing directly from your browser.
• Print from a desktop or laptop whenever possible.
• Have A4 or Letter paper ready, depending on your pattern.
• Check your printer has enough ink before printing large patterns.

1. Download the Sewing Pattern File

Download your pattern using a laptop or desktop. This is important as most mobile devices are not set up to download PDFs. Technology changes rapidly, and I suspect this will soon change. If you are going to download it on your mobile, make sure you have a print function also set up.

I have a selection of free sewing patterns on this blog.

Try and save the file somewhere on your computer where it is easy to find in the future. For many computers, downloads automatically go into a download folder, so if you are not given an option, check there first. 

2. Open the Sewing Pattern PDF to Print

Open the file in a PDF reader such as Adobe Acrobat Reader. The good news is that this is free software. Most computers should have this installed already, but if yours doesn’t, you can download it for free at http://get.adobe.com/reader/.

It is not recommended to open PDF files in your browser as it can be harder to change the scale settings.

3. Print PDF Sewing Patterns

In Adobe Reader, this is as simple. Just click on the top left menu FILE-PRINT. This will open up your print settings on your home printer.

Check the printer settings and press print.

4. Summary of Printer Settings

1. Pages – Check you are printing the correct pages. Sometimes people try and print the sticky taping grid by mistake. The pattern piece pages are always after the instructions.
2. Tick save ink if possible.
3. Printing scale – Custom scale is sometimes worded differently. Look for wording – scale none, scale 100%, original size. May sure there is no tick in fit to page.
4. Orientation – Check auto portrait/landscape so it will adjust to the pdf.
5. Page size – Select the paper size in your printer. This will be A4 or letter.

Save Ink and Paper – You don’t need to print the whole file but just the pages with the actual pattern pieces. You will view the instructions on your computer screen to save ink. The other advantage of viewing the instructions on your computer is that you can zoom in on photos when you need to. Save ink by printing in a draft mode. 

A Note About Scale – It is really important that you set your scaling to “actual size.” Some readers or printers might word this as “scaling set to none,” or “100%,” or “turn off scaling.” Even a small percentage of scaling can mean your garment becomes too tight. 

5. Measure the Test Square

After you have printed the pages, look for the test square. All Treasurie test squares are 2 inches (5.1cm). Other designers may use different-sized squares, so double check any notes in the box or the instructions.

Test squares are usually found on the first page of the pattern. Get out your ruler and check that it measures correctly. If it doesn’t, then check your print settings and try again.

If you have a pattern with a large number of pages, print just the test square page first before printing the entire pattern. You don’t want to waste paper only to realize it was all the wrong scale.

6. Layout the Pages in a Grid

Your pattern will go together in a grid. Check your pattern instructions for the grid layout. The Treasurie patterns are always numbered in a simple grid. This example just has 4 pages.

7. Trimming and Taping the Grid

Match up the edges of the frames to put your pattern together. You will need to cut along some of the edges of the frames. You may be able to fold the edges instead.

Align the edges of the frames sticking the pattern together in the nominated grid layout using either a glue stick or sticky tape.

8. Cut Out the PDF Pattern

Keep going for the rest of the grid, and you are ready to start cutting. Most PDF sewing patterns are multi-sized, so you just have to cut on the colored line for your desired size. 

Common PDF Printing Problems

Problem	Solution
Pattern prints too small	Turn off “Fit to Page.”
Test square is incorrect	Print at Actual Size (100%).
Pages don’t line up	Check paper size and page order.
Can’t open the file	Download Adobe Acrobat Reader.

PDF Sewing Pattern FAQs

How to Print PDF Patterns – In Conclusion

Now you know how to print PDF sewing patterns correctly; you’re ready to start your next sewing project with confidence. Remember to print at 100% scale, check the test square before assembling the pages, and keep your instruction booklet open digitally to save paper and ink.

Shop for patterns at www.treasurie.com

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