Tips For Printing PDF Patterns Correctly

I’m quickly covering how to ensure your PDF pattern prints correctly. Almost all sewing patterns have a test box (at least all mine do!) to verify your pattern pieces have printed the correct size so you can confidently cut into your good materials. PDFs are best printed using a program designed for them such as Adobe Reader (a free download on their website here: www.adobe.com/acrobat/pdf-rea...) Once you’ve downloaded your pattern and saved it to your device, open the PDF in Adobe reader and hit “print”. Within this print box, you’ll need to unclick the “fit” box and either select “actual size” or type in “100%” and then make sure to select “auto” rotation. Now it’s safe to print. If you do not unclick the “fit”, a lot of printers will try try to force print the document within their page margins (in this example it’s 96%) which will make the pattern print out too small!
Continue watching and I’ll explain how to print larger and smaller to suit your needs as well.

[@barbarchut9600]

Thank you so much, Lindsey, for doing this video!

[@LindsHandmadeDesigns]

You are so welcome!

[@roxannericchio3556]

Thank you so much for this video! Very helpful for changing the size.

[@LindsHandmadeDesigns]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lynnew5619]

Very helpful, thanks.

[@denaewagner7948]

Thank you so much!! Huge help!

[@LindsHandmadeDesigns]

I’m glad!

[@cindycash1772]

Very good information... thank you... did you make your jacket ??? If so, what pattern n fabric did you use ??? Is the fabric still available ???

[@LindsHandmadeDesigns]

Ha ha thanks! No I actually just got it for $19 at Costco 😳. It came in a gray color way as well. 👌🏻

[@paulettebugajski3537]

Thanks for the video. What if I am using the A0 file? How do I print 120% while staying 36" wide? Thank you

[@LindsHandmadeDesigns]

The A0 file is for a print shop since typical home printers don’t have the ability to print such a large sheet. Maybe ask the print shop if they are able to print it to 120%? 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@DJCFLA]

Hi... question regarding gussets, if you enlarge a pattern that has a gusset will the enlarged gusset suffice or will it need to be tweaked at all? Thanks!

[@LindsHandmadeDesigns]

Yes you’d want the gusset enlarged as well usually to stay proportionate. Things you wouldn’t adjust are pieces that are fitting specific hardware like straps and strap connectors etc.

[@elainen5151]

My printer has margins that can't be adjusted and none of my patterns print out correctly. I usually have to print at 102%. Even then I have trouble getting a correct one inch box. Very frustrating.

[@LindsHandmadeDesigns]

Ugh I’ve heard this before about certain printers. When all else fails I’ll tell someone to try printing it at 102% but by then they are pretty mad at ME for the printing issue 😰