How it works
When you buy a digital pattern, you get a zip file. It holds the pattern itself, instructions for printing and taping it together, and the full sewing instructions.
1. Printing
Every pattern is made for an ordinary A4 printer. Follow the printing instructions that come with the pattern and you will get the right scale. Printer settings should always be set to 100 %. Print the test square on page 1 and measure it before you print the rest.
2. Taping it together
The A4 sheets are joined into one pattern. Each pattern has its own layout, depending on the garment and the number of sheets. Trim the excess paper from some of the sheets before you tape them together.
3. Find your size
Take your measurements and find the size closest to them. You may well be one size on top and another on the bottom. Make the adjustments you need.
It is often worth sewing the garment in a cheaper fabric first, an old bed sheet for instance. Then you can see how it sits before you cut into the fabric you actually want to use.
The levels
- Beginner: you have not sewn before.
- Beginner+: you have tried a little, but do not have much experience yet.
- Intermediate: you have been sewing for a while, but have not tried everything.
- Advanced: you sew a lot and know the techniques.