A common question people ask is "what is a PDF pattern?". So this is an informational post for anyone who isn't quite sure what all this PDF pattern stuff is about...
So what is this PDF pattern thing?
A PDF sewing pattern is a sewing pattern you buy online and is sent to by email. Depending on where you purchase the pattern it will either come to you as an email attachment or a link to a page where you would open the document and then save it to your computer.
PDF patterns are also sometimes referred to as ebooks & epatterns (as in electronic book/electronic pattern).
What is so great about PDF patterns?
Probably the biggest benefit is convenience. You can order your pattern without leaving home and it arrives quickly--if not almost instantly. Then you can save your copy, print it out and get busy sewing. You will also be able to retrieve the document later for reprinting if necessary.
Another nice thing is the variety. Lots of independent designers are making patterns available for all sorts of adorable and fun things to make. The etsy pattern category is probably at least 50% PDF patterns. Most patterns are for sewing, crochet & knitting. But you can also find patterns for beaded cuffs, embroidery, and a variety of other crafty endeavors.
Because you print them at home smaller items are best suited for PDF sewing patterns. Some pattern makers have designs for larger items but you may need to tape the pattern pieces together or enlarge the pattern. Read the pattern description to see if the pattern requires a lot of intervention on your part.
Are the pattern pieces full size?
If a pattern needs to be enlarged the description *should* indicate enlarging is necessary. I say should because I can't control how other pattern makers describe their patterns. My patterns do not need to be enlarged, but some pieces might need to be taped at one joint or will be half pieces that will need to be placed on a fold for cutting. The instructions will clearly indicate where the pieces should be taped and/or placed on a fold.
What does the PDF acronym mean?
PDF stands for Portable Document Format, which is the file type. PDF is the ideal format because the software to view the file is easy to find and generally comes pre-installed on most computers these days. If it isn't installed the software for the reader is free to download.
PDF files also give the author control over how the document displays to the end user and they aren't easily changed by the end user.
What do I need to use a PDF sewing pattern?
- PDF Reader - Adobe Reader is most popular. More about this in a minute...
- Printer - You will print the instructions and pattern pieces at home. Most PDF sewing patterns come with photos for the instruction steps rather than the traditional diagrams of printed patterns, so having a color printer is ideal but not mandatory. Even in black and white the photos should still be clear enough for you to get the idea. If your computer is in the same room as your sewing machine, or can be brought to your sewing room, you can also follow along with the instructions right on your computer and save some paper and ink.
How do I know if I have a PDF Reader on my computer?
Most newer computers come with some sort of PDF reader program already loaded. To check to see if you have the reader click the link below. If the document opens (give it a few seconds) and you can read the text and see the image then you are all set up.
Download PDF Test Document
If that didn't open for you or you received a message asking you what program to use to open the document you need to install the reader. To download a free copy of Adobe Reader go here and click download and follow the prompts:
http://get.adobe.com/reader/
Alright I'm all set up--what now?
Find your pattern and buy it! If you purchase one of my patterns here is what happens:
1. You buy the pattern on etsy and submit payment through PayPal.
2. When I log onto my computer (I do check several times a day) I will see you have ordered a pattern. Once your payment is received I go into my email and send you the pattern as an attachment to an email message. I send patterns within 24-hours of receipt of payment and so do most other etsy sellers.
3. After sending you the pattern I send you a "conversation" on etsy letting you know it has been sent and that if there are any problems to please contact me.
3. You check your email and see my message. If you don't see it your email program has probably decided I'm a spammer and has thrown the message away or sent it to your "junk" or "spam" folder. Check your spam or junk folder and if it isn't there send me an email or etsy conversation and let me know it needs to be resent. This doesn't happen all that often but when it does I resend the email and send you a download link in an etsy conversation. If my email still doesn't arrive you can go to the download link and open the document and save it to your computer.
4. Click on my email message and the pattern will be attached. Open the document(s) by clicking twice on the title of the document.
5. Save a copy of the pattern on your computer.
6. Print out your pattern and start sewing!
