If you are new to sewing, or new to using pdf patterns, you might be overwhelmed or unsure how you can print a sewing pattern at home. That is completely normal if you are used to using store bought patterns, or patterns printed on large scale paper.
Our patterns include multiple options for using the pattern, such as Copyshop files -which is the large format pattern that is to be printed at your local print shop or online print store, or even a projector file for those techy sewists. But today we are looking at the most popular and accessible option, which is the print at home pattern. You can print it on regular printer paper - in both US letter size or A4. All you need is a printer, paper, glue stick or tape, and scissors.
If you need help figuring out how to print the pattern, check out our last blog post: A Step by Step Guide: How to use layers to single out a size + printing tips
Lets start:
Before printing the entire pattern, I would reccommned to print the first page of the pattern which has the scale squares, so that you can make sure that the pattern will indeed print to scale. To do, you simply need to measure the square, either the one in inches, or in cm, whichever unit you are more familiar with.
Next you can start by triming away one side and the bottom of the pages. You do not need to trim the side of the pages that are on the very edge of the layout. If you are unsure, you can refer to the print layout page, which is usually the 3rd page that prints out.
Once the pages are trimmed, you can begin gluing or taping the pages together of that row.
Each page has a letter and number in the center of the page, so you know which row and column each page should be in. Here you can see the numbers underlined in red:
For this example the rows are lettered, and the columns are numbered. It may be different depending on what pattern you are printing, so please refer to the print layout, which you can find on the 3rd page of the print at home file.
When gluing or taping the pattern together, try to be as accurate as possible. Our patterns include a border around the pattern area, and also circlular shapes in the corners to help you align the pages correctly.
Once you have attached all of the pages of one row, continue attaching the other rows. You can either attach the rows all in one go as demontrated here, or you can start one row, then continue attaching page by page.
Once all of your pages are attached together, then you are ready to start cutting out the pattern pieces, or tracing them if you prefer.
Now you are ready to start cutting the fabric and sewing :)
If you have any further questions, please feel free to email me at Contact@wildflowerdesignpatterns.com
Happy sewing,
Melanie