Printing a PDF sewing pattern at home sounds tricky. It isn’t. Get a few settings right and your pieces come out the perfect size every time.
What You Need
- A home printer (inkjet or laser both work)
- US Letter or A4 paper
- Adobe Acrobat Reader (free)
- Clear tape
- Paper scissors and a ruler
Step 1: Print at 100% Scale
This is the step that matters most. In the print window, pick Actual Size or set scale to 100%. Never pick “Fit to Page” or “Shrink to Fit”. Those shrink your pattern pieces.
Step 2: Print and Measure the Test Square
Print only the page with the test square first. Measure it with a ruler. If it matches the size printed on it, your settings are right. If not, check the scale again.
Step 3: Print the Rest of the Pages
Once the test square is right, print all the pattern pages. Print the instructions too, or keep them open on a screen.
Step 4: Tape the Pages Together
- Lay the pages out in order. Follow the page numbers or grid letters.
- Trim or fold the margin on one side of each page.
- Line up the pattern lines and markers.
- Tape along the seams between pages.
- Cut out your size along the correct line.
Want to Skip the Taping?
Some patterns include a copy shop file. A local print shop can print it on one large sheet. In the US, many people use office supply stores for this.
Common Printing Problems
- Pieces look too small: Your printer used “Fit to Page”. Switch to 100%.
- Lines do not match: Check that you trimmed the right margin.
- Pages are cut off: Check your paper size setting. Letter and A4 are not the same.
Still need help? Look through our FAQ or send us a message.