From Download to Finished Garment: Using Winslet’s Digital Sewing Patterns
At Winslet’s, we aim to make your sewing journey as smooth as possible. This guide walks you through every step — from downloading and choosing your file format to printing or projecting your pattern. Here’s everything you need to know to get started.
Step 1: Downloading Your Pattern
After completing your checkout process, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a link to download your pattern shortly after.
Once you click the link, you’ll be directed to a page with the files for your pattern. We offer multiple formats to suit various preferences and devices:
- A4/Letter-Size PDF for at-home printing on standard paper.
- A0 PDF for large-format printing at a local print shop.
- Projector Files designed for those who prefer to project patterns directly onto fabric.
Choose the file that best suits your setup and download it to your device.
Step 2: Understanding the Pattern File - Layers and Seam Allowance Options
Each Winslet's pattern file comes with instructions to guide you through the process. Here’s how to use them:
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Open Your Pattern in Adobe Acrobat: Make sure to open your downloaded file in Adobe Acrobat Reader to access the layers feature.
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Selecting Your Size Layer: From the Winslet's size chart, select the size that is the closest to your measurements. Under the “Layers” tab, you’ll see each size labeled individually. Simply toggle the visibility for your size, allowing only the needed layers to print.
- Adding Seam Allowances: In all patterns, we’ve included a layer for each size which includes the seam allowances, giving you the flexibility to work with or without added seam space. The exact seam allowance measurements are also mentioned in the sewing guide for your reference. Please note that the seam allowances used may vary across patterns.
Refer to our Seam Allowance Layers video for a visual guide on working with layers and seam allowances.
Step 3: Printing/ Projecting Your Pattern
1. Print Patterns: Whether you’re using an A4/Letter-sized printer or taking your file to a print shop, here are a few tips:
- All patterns include a test square of 1inch X 1inch that you can measure to confirm the print scale.
- Print the pattern assembly page (in case of A4/ US Letter) or Page 1 instructions (in case of A0) first to check the printer's scale.
Ensure you print at 100% scale or ‘Actual Size’ (no scaling or fitting to page) to maintain accuracy. If the scale is correct, proceed with printing the remaining pages. If not, review the printer settings.
- If unsure about the paper size, go to "page setup" and select the appropriate paper size. After selecting the paper size, click "print".
For detailed instructions on home printing, check out our Printing Patterns video here.
2. Projector Patterns: If you’re using a projector to project your pattern directly onto fabric, Winslet’s digital patterns are optimized for easy use. Here’s how to make the most out of our projector-friendly features:
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Every pattern includes a calibration grid with both 1cm x 1cm and 1 inch x 1 inch squares. Select the grid that suits your preferred measurement system. Project the calibration grid over your cutting board, and adjust your projector's angle and zoom until the grid matches the correct scale on your board. Once properly aligned, you can disable the calibration layers to view and use the complete pattern.
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All pattern pieces are aligned along the grainline, and any pieces that need to be cut as mirror images are already duplicated in the correct orientation. This ensures you can start cutting confidently without worrying about reorienting or mirroring your projections.
Step 4: Assembling Print Pattern (for A4/ US Letter and A0 in some cases)
After printing your pattern pages, it’s time to assemble them. Winslet’s patterns are designed for easy alignment and assembly. Here’s a quick overview:
- Trim and Prepare Pages: Begin by trimming the borders as indicated in the pattern instructions to ensure a seamless fit between pages.
- Align Pages with Reference Image: Refer to the assembly guide image provided with your pattern. This guide shows the correct layout for aligning all pages.
- Match the Markers: Each page contains alignment markers or symbols. Ensure these symbols line up with adjacent pages for accurate pattern assembly.
- Tape or Glue the Pages: Secure the pages together using clear tape or glue once everything is properly aligned. This will keep the pattern stable during use.
- Cut Along the Lines: Use a pair of scissors to carefully cut out each pattern piece along the indicated lines on the paper. Be precise to maintain accurate sizing and shape. Pay attention to any markings on the pattern, such as notches, darts, or grainlines, and make sure they remain visible for when you transfer the pattern to your fabric.
Step 5: Transferring the Pattern onto Fabric
- Place your paper pattern pieces or project your pattern file on the fabric, making sure to align them with the grainline as indicated on each piece. The grainline arrows should run parallel to the selvage edge of the fabric for proper drape and fit. Pay attention to whether the right (front) or wrong (back) side of the fabric is facing up.
- Take note of any remarks on the pattern piece, such as the number of pieces to cut and consider the pieces that need to be cut as mirror images, for example - front pieces of the top.
- Before cutting, use chalk, a fabric pen, or tailor’s wheel to trace the pattern outlines onto your fabric. This step helps ensure accurate cuts and allows for adjustments, if needed, without altering the original pattern.
- Carefully transfer all pattern markings onto the fabric, including darts, notches, fold lines, and any other guides.
Ready to Sew!
Each pattern includes step-by-step instructions and diagrams to guide you through assembling your garment.
Whether you’re an experienced sewist or a beginner, Winslet’s Patterns provide you with all the tools you need to bring your vision to life. Enjoy the journey from pattern to wardrobe staple!
