How to Print PDF Sewing Patterns Correctly (And Avoid Common Mistakes)
Are You Sure You’re Printing Your PDF Sewing Patterns Correctly?
Let’s be honest for a second.
How many of us actually measure the test square before cutting the fabric? 😊
PDF sewing patterns are amazing — instant access, no waiting, no shipping —
but only if they are printed correctly.
If your finished garment feels too tight, too loose, or just a little strange, the problem often starts before sewing, at the printing stage.
Let’s walk through it together — no technical language, no stress.
Step 1: Download & Open the Pattern Properly
First things first:
Always download the PDF file fully and open it using a PDF reader (like Adobe Acrobat Reader).
👉 Avoid printing directly from:
-Web browsers
-Mobile preview apps
These often resize pages automatically without you noticing.
Step 2: Printer Settings (This Is Where Magic or Disaster Happens)
Before you click “Print”, take a deep breath and check this:
✅ Scale: 100%
✅ Actual Size: ON
❌ Fit to Page: OFF
❌ Shrink / Expand: OFF
This step alone fixes 90% of sizing problems.
Step 3: The Test Square (Yes… That One 😄)
Every PDF sewing pattern includes a test square, usually 4 x 4 inches or 10 x 10 cm.
Now comes the question:
“Is anyone really measuring this?”
Please do 🙏
Use a ruler and measure it after printing.
-If it’s correct → you’re good to go
-If not → stop, adjust printer settings, and reprint
Skipping this step means sewing is basically a gamble.
Step 4: Paper Choice & Orientation
-Standard A4 or US Letter paper works perfectly
-Print in portrait orientation unless stated otherwise
-Black & white is totally fine (eco & budget friendly 🌱)
Step 5: Assembling the Pages (The Puzzle Part)
Once pages are printed, it’s time to assemble them.
Here’s what helps:
-Trim margins where indicated
-Match page numbers and alignment marks
-Tape or glue — whatever keeps you sane 😄
👉 I explain both printing and assembling step by step in this Instagram video:
video here
Video Tutorials (Because Watching Is Easier)
If you prefer learning by watching:
🎥 Printing PDF Sewing Patterns – YouTube Tutorial
(Printing only, clear and simple)
YouTube
📱 Printing + Assembling – Instagram Tutorial
(Quick, practical, beginner-friendly)
Instagram
Want More Technical Details?
If you’re looking for a more detailed and structured guide,
I’ve also explained everything step by step on this page:
This blog post is the friendly version —
that page is the “save it and bookmark it forever” version 😉
Final Thoughts 💭
PDF sewing patterns are easy, practical, and fun —
but only when printed at the correct scale.
So next time, before blaming the pattern…
check the test square first 😌
Happy printing & sewing ✂️🤍
— Leyla