Downloaded a PDF sewing pattern and ready to get started? Before assembling the pages, take a moment to check your print settings. If “Fit to page” is enabled, it can change the pattern’s scale. This guide shows you how to check your printout before cutting into your fabric.
Contents
- Choose the right file and paper size
- Set the print scale to 100 percent
- Measure the test square
- Assemble the pages correctly
- If the printout is not right
1. Choose the right file and paper size
Open the complete PDF sewing pattern file on your device. Choose the file that matches your paper size, such as A4 or US Letter. An A0 file is intended for large-format printing or for projecting the pattern onto your fabric with a projector. If the download includes several files, check their names and, if needed, the instructions in the e-book or on the product page.
If your PDF includes size layers, use a compatible PDF reader to hide the sizes you do not need. Keep shared labels and registration marks visible, then check the print preview.
2. Set the print scale to 100 percent
- Open the print dialog and select the correct paper size.
- Set the scale to “Actual size”, “Original size” or 100%.
- Turn off “Fit to page”, “Shrink oversized pages” and any similar settings.
- Check the print preview to make sure the page is not automatically scaled down or cropped when rotated.
The exact wording depends on your PDF reader and printer. What matters is that the PDF page prints unchanged at its intended scale.
3. Measure the test square
First, print only the page with the test square. Measure it with a ruler and compare it with the dimensions stated in the pattern. Print the remaining pages only when the measurements match. A printout that is “almost” right is not a reliable scale for cutting.
4. Assemble the pages correctly
Sort the pages using their labels. For JULIANA MARTEJEVS patterns, place the sheets edge to edge at the marked guides without cutting or folding the margins. Check that the lines, registration marks and labels continue across the joins. Tape the sheets together only once the grid lines up. A video tutorial on printing and assembling the pattern walks you through the process. Other pattern brands may require you to trim or fold the margins before joining the pages, so check the instructions from the relevant brand.
5. If the printout is not right
- Test square too small or too large: Check that “Fit to page” is off and that the paper size matches the file.
- Lines missing at the edge: Some printers have a non-printable margin. Check whether the file needs borderless printing or whether a different print file is available.
- File won’t open: Save it fully to your device. If it downloaded as a ZIP file, extract it before opening.
- Printing at a copy shop: Ask for the pattern to be printed at actual size with no page scaling, and measure the test square on the finished printout.
If the scale is still off despite correct settings, try a different PDF reader or printer before cutting your fabric. If you have questions about a specific order, JULIANA MARTEJEVS Customer Service can help if you provide your order number and file name.
Remember: choose the right paper size, print at 100% with scaling turned off, measure the test square, and only then assemble and cut.
For more help, visit our sewing tips and free video tutorials.
