{"id":2445,"date":"2014-01-23T05:00:02","date_gmt":"2014-01-23T05:00:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hobbyfarms.com\/2014\/01\/23\/why-pdf-patterns-are-wonderful\/"},"modified":"2020-11-03T03:41:18","modified_gmt":"2020-11-03T08:41:18","slug":"why-pdf-patterns-are-wonderful","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hobbyfarms.com\/why-pdf-patterns-are-wonderful\/","title":{"rendered":"Why PDF Patterns are Wonderful"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n\n
\"Why<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

It\u2019s a new year and time to talk sewing again. I wanted to start off the new year by expounding on the virtues of PDF sewing patterns or e-patterns. Huh! What? Let me explain.<\/p>\n

What is a PDF Pattern?<\/span>
A PDF pattern or e-pattern is a sewing pattern that you purchase online. Once the transaction has finalized, a box may open with a link to the pattern. Sometimes, the pattern is sent to your email in a zip file. Other times, you are immediately redirected to an instant download page.<\/p>\n

However you have received your pattern, the next thing you do is download it to your computer and then you have it forever\u2014as long as you back things up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\"Why<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

The fun begins once you have downloaded and opened the pattern. Like all other sewing patterns, you will receive a supply list, yardage amounts, sizing information and the actual pattern. The difference is that you<\/em> have to print the pattern before you can cut it out. Yes, you will be using your printer and your ink, but that is the beauty here. If you have ever incorrectly cut out a paper pattern, then you know how frustrating that can be. With PDF patterns, all you have to do is print out another one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\"Why
Photo by Leslie Rutland\/The Seasoned Homemaker<\/em><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

I\u2019m going to demonstrate here with one of my apron patterns<\/a>. When you open the PDF file, you should find a pattern map that will direct you on how you should assemble the printed pattern tiles. Print out the pattern tiles according to the directions and then tape them together according to the pattern map.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\"Why
Photo by Leslie Rutland\/The Seasoned Homemaker<\/em><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

It\u2019s really that easy. At this point, I like to trace my pattern onto pattern paper, as it\u2019s easier to manipulate for size adjustments. However, if the pattern doesn\u2019t need resizing (like an apron), then you can lay it out and start cutting.<\/p>\n

PDF Patterns are Ecomonical
<\/span>PDF patterns are by far more economical than almost any other sewing pattern out there, especially where children\u2019s clothes are concerned. Think about it, you buy one PDF pattern in multiple sizes\u2014something like children\u2019s pajamas. Every year, when you need a larger size, you open the pattern, print out the next size, and sew it up.<\/p>\n

Sewing things like T-shirts, simple skirts, pajamas and other classics makes this is a sewing mom\u2019s dream. The convenience of already having the pattern and the savings from not having to buy another size make PDF patterns an overall winner.<\/p>\n

Instant Gratification<\/span>
Are you an instant-gratification-type person? Well, PDF patterns will hit the mark here. Find a pattern you love, purchase it, print it and sew it. If it\u2019s a simple design, like a T-shirt, you could be done before lunch. This is ideal when you need a quick gift or live a great distance from a store that carries paper patterns. The beauty is in the instant. Time saved, money saved.<\/p>\n

Buy PDF Patterns<\/span>
PDF patterns are everywhere on the Internet, but I have a short list of go-to places where I like to get mine. When searching for a particular type of pattern, use the search box to find what you need (example: children\u2019s T-shirts).<\/p>\n

Some of these sellers also have free PDF patterns. Spend some time searching\u2014you\u2019ll be amazed at what you can find.<\/p>\n