ABOUT PDF PATTERNS

Why use PDF sewing patterns?

1/ They are instantly available to download and use.

2/ PDF patterns are very inexpensive compared to printed patterns.

3/ Include detailed photo sewing tutorials or ebooks showing every step of how to sew the pattern.

4/ Can be printed on any desktop printer using A4 [ 8.1/4" x 11.5/8"] paper and Letter size paper in the USA.

5/ PDF's are easy to store on your computer or cloud based storage like Dropbox so you can use it as often as you like.

6/ By using a free app it's possible to use the ebook tutorial on your phone or iPad BUT you must always print the pattern from a computer.

How to use a Felicity Patterns PDF pattern

Not all PDF patterns are formulated the same way: all Felicity Sewing Patterns are computer drafted and are delivered as full size range nests so you get all sizes. Every pattern piece is separately laid out, clearly labeled and with colour coded sizes. Instructions on how to print and put the pattern pages together are included. Felicity patterns do not have layers enabled.

You will need to have a pdf reader installed on your computer to open and use the pattern. You can download this free at ---- https://get.adobe.com/reader

Most computers already have a pdf reader installed. However Windows 8 and 10 do not come with the full version of Adobe Reader so download the complete version. If you are using a Mac do not use Mac Preview but install Adobe Reader for Mac. You must use a computer to print the pattern pages; they may not print accurately from phones or iPads but the sewing tutorials can be viewed on these devices..

The pattern file download must be saved to a computer before printing.

1/ SAVE: open the downloaded file and right click, select 'Save as' and save the file to your computer desktop, documents etc. Do not print off the download window because on some browsers the pattern scale may be automatically altered or the pages may print off center. To print click 'File' select 'Print' this way you will get the correct print box so you can check and alter the settings.

2/ BEFORE PRINTING: Open the pattern file and read the instructions for printing on the Test Square page. Print only the pattern pages and view the tutorial on your computer. Use the Layout Plan to see how the pages fit together; read the Guide to Assembling the Pattern Pages.

3/ PRINTER SETTINGS: In the print box make sure your printer settings are on 'No Scaling' or 'Actual Size' or 100% and 'Borderless' is selected [this setting is usually under 'Properties' in the settings box ]. Insert the page numbers to print the pattern pages only e.g. 23-33. It's best to print in colour. Always print the Test Square page first and check that the scale is correct. All patterns have an additional Test Square on the first page of the pattern layout so print this page and check it before printing all the pattern pages.

Please note that the pattern pages are usually on landscape orientation whereas the tutorial and instruction pages are on portrait. Always print the pattern pages separately to any other pages in the file.

PHOTO: Printing Instructions page from pattern file. Shows printer settings required and test squares for checking the page scale.

4/ ASSEMBLE THE PAGES: use the Layout Plan as a guide to lay out all the pages in correct order; the pages are numbered according to the printing sequence. The pages print out with a border about 12mm / 1/2" wide all around on A4 paper. The border will be uneven on Letter size paper but the pattern content is not affected. Each page meets at the border line so trim the borders off one or two sides as required of the overlapping pages. You can see which borders to trim by looking at where they join the next page. For a neat finish trim borders on the same side of each page; place the trimmed edge over the uncut border of the adjoining page. When joining the pages always match the pattern lines exactly rather than the edges or borders of the pages. It is best to glue the pages together using craft glue, this will give a neat smooth finish to the completed layout. Alternately use clear tape; use shorter strips of tape rather than long lengths. Make sure to place tape at the edges of the pattern pieces and reinforce with extra tape on the back. When you have the pattern ready use the colour code to decipher the sizes. The size lines are also marked with size numbers. You can simply cut out the size you want to use or trace out the single size and keep the master pattern intact. Take special note where pattern pieces are marked with 'FOLD LINE'. All patterns include seam allowances.

See the Quick Guide to Assembling a PDF Pattern at the bottom of this page.

Photo: Layout Plan page from pattern files. Shows mini layout of pattern pages and instructions for assembling the pattern pages.

Like to take a practice run?

If you would like to try a PDF pattern before you buy there are free patterns available in the shop however these do not include the sewing tutorials. You can view the sewing tutorials for the free patterns on my blog page; these are very similar to the tutorials included with all my patterns. To get a free pattern go to the shop section FREE PATTERNS.

What pattern tools are required?

Desktop printer and printer paper, paper scissors, craft glue or cello tape, pen/pencil, ruler/tape measure, tracing wheel and plain paper if you want to trace out the single size pattern.

What's in the sewing tutorial or ebook?

The tutorial contains all the information needed to make the garment.

1/ Fabric chart [metric & imperial] plus details of trims and accessories required.

2/ Size charts in metric and imperial for body measurements.

3/ Illustration of garment with finished length measurements.

4/ Helpful info on best fabrics to use, using the pattern, preparing and cutting fabric.

5/ Colour photos showing each step of the sewing process from start to finish.

6/ Many Felicity Pattern styles have multiple options; all options are shown in the tutorials.

How to use the sewing tutorial on an iPhone or iPad

It is possible to use the tutorials on an iPhone or iPad by either downloading an app like Perfect Reader for Apple devices or Google Playbooks for android devices. These are free apps. Alternately save the pattern file to a cloud based storage like Dropbox [also free and easy to use] this makes it easy to access the file from any device and your pattern file will be safely stored in case of computer failure. Being able to view the tutorials on a phone or iPad makes them portable so you can have them right there as you sew.

REMINDER! never print a pattern from a phone or iPad.