How to Print PDF Patterns – Print, Cut, Sew

If you have never tried a PDF sewing pattern then you are missing out. Don’t let trying something new intimidate you as learning how to print PDF patterns is easy with this step by step guide.

Digital PDF sewing patterns are great because

• 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.

How to Print PDF Patterns

Here is a short video I made for you showing just how easy it is to print and tape your patterns. 

Step 1 –  Download

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 would like to try a free pattern, download the rabbit skirt pattern. 

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. 

Step 2 – Open

Open the file in a PDF reader such as Adobe Reader.

Most computers should have this installed already but if yours doesn’t you can download it for free at http://get.adobe.com/reader/.

Step 3 – Print your pattern

In Adobe Reader, this is as simple as clicking on FILE-PRINT.

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.

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. 

Save ink by printing in a draft mode. 

Step 4 – Check Scale

After you have printed the pages look for the test square.

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.

Step 5 – Layout Grid

Your pattern will go together in a grid. Check your pattern instructions for the grid layout. 

Step 6 – Tape

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.

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

Step 7 – Cut

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. 

Sewing Pdf Patterns

Now you know how to print a pdf pattern, you can start sewing! 

Shop for patterns at www.treasurie.com