Today’s topic may either instill excitement or dread: print-out-your-own PDF patterns!  Perhaps you have never tried, or perhaps you have had limited luck, or perhaps you are one of those lucky few who have had nothing but success.  Either way, today is all about helping you understand this wonderful sewing pattern option.

In today’s video I will discuss the following topics:

• What are PDF or downloadable patterns
• How to store these patterns
• Digital patterns
• Pros and Cons of PDF patterns

And just like my other sewing pattern videos, I will list out my favorite PDF/Digital pattern companies and their links below this video.

Enjoy!

My Favorite PDF/Digital Pattern Companies – this is no way an exhaustive list, just a starting place.  Have a favorite PDF historical pattern company you just love?  Comment below!

Sensibility Patterns

Mrs. Depew

E Vintage Patterns

Wearing History E-Patterns

Aimee’s Victorian Armoire

RedThreaded

Please remember to read out all the instructions of how to create the patterns BEFORE purchasing.  That way you can try to avoid an unhappy experience.

My Tricks of the Trade on How to Assemble and Work with PDF Patterns

1. Read all instructions BEFORE printing out the pattern.
2. Make sure you have plenty of ink and paper in your printer…..I am ashamed to say I have been surprised too many times by not properly checking the paper tray of my printer.
3. Make sure all symbols or shapes line up before you tape!
4. Use small pieces of tape first before you use larger pieces.  Sometimes using too large of a piece can cause the paper to twist or move.
5. Recycle any papers that do not have a pattern shape on it.  Sometimes I can have 8-10 blank pieces and so I simply reuse them on the next pattern project.
6. Fit the paper pattern to a dress form to check for fit and accuracy.
7. Understand (and accept) that at least one mockup will be required to work out any kinks.
8. Relax, have fun, and enjoy the extra savings!!! 🙂

While creating with PDF patterns can have their negative moments, they are such a wonderful, affordable, and instant way to increase your sewing and historical/vintage wardrobe.