PDF patterns
PDF vs paper sewing patterns: which should you buy?
Choose a PDF pattern if you want it instantly, cheaper and in your size only: you print it at home on A4 or US Letter, or at a copy shop on one A0 sheet, as many times as you like. Choose paper if you prefer not to print and tape pages together. Both give the same pattern pieces.
The differences at a glance
| PDF pattern | Paper pattern | |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery | Instant download | Posted, several days |
| Price | Usually lower (ours are $4.99) | Usually higher, plus postage |
| Sizes | Print only the sizes you need (layered PDF) | All sizes nested on one sheet |
| Reuse | Print again whenever you like | Trace off, or buy another copy |
| Preparation | Print, trim and tape the pages | Ready to cut |
| Instructions | Illustrated guide you can zoom | Printed instruction sheet |
How many pages do you print?
It depends on the size of the garment: a midi dress with a ruffled tier, for example, prints on 45 A4 pages, which you trim and tape along the marks. If you would rather skip it, send the A0 file to a copy shop: the whole pattern comes out on one large sheet, ready to cut.
What you get with our PDF patterns
- A layered A4 / US Letter file for home printing
- An A0 file for the copy shop
- An illustrated step-by-step sewing guide (usually 10 to 13 pages)
How to print them is explained in how to use a PDF sewing pattern.
Beginner patterns to try as a PDF
#1
Summer Dress PDF Sewing Pattern
#5
Romper PDF Sewing Pattern
#6
Robe PDF Sewing Pattern
#7
One Shoulder Top PDF Sewing Pattern
#10
Ruffled Comfy Shorts PDF Sewing Pattern
#19
Pencil Skirt PDF Sewing Pattern
Every pattern in the library, for one payment. 550+ PDF sewing patterns with layered A4 / US Letter files, A0 copy-shop files and illustrated guides, for $49, new releases included.
Frequently asked questions
Are PDF sewing patterns good for beginners?
Yes. You can print a size again if you cut it wrong, zoom into the illustrated guide, and start sewing the same day. Printing at 100% and checking the test square is the only extra step.
Can I print a PDF sewing pattern more than once?
Yes. You keep the file, so you can print it again, in another size, as often as you need for your own sewing.
Do I need a special printer?
No. Any home printer that prints A4 or US Letter at actual size works. For one large sheet, a copy shop prints the A0 file.
More sewing guides
- How to measure yourself for a sewing pattern
- How to use a PDF sewing pattern
- Sewing pattern size chart, XS to XXXL
- What is a layered PDF sewing pattern?
- Seam allowance on sewing patterns: what it is and how much is included
- The best fabrics for beginner sewing projects
- What you need to start sewing clothes
- How much fabric do I need?
- Beginner vs intermediate sewing patterns: what's the difference?