Printing patterns with layers is super easy. In this guide, we'll show you how it's done.
The most important things at a glance
- In this guide, you will learn how to print patterns in layers
- We explain what you need for layer printing and which software is required
- All the benefits of layer printing at a glance
Print only one size. No distracting lines from other sizes. Maximum clarity for your own pattern. This is now possible. And to make it easy for you, here is this little guide. Download the right software, select the right layer, print, glue, cut. Everything included. Let’s get started.
YouTube guide: Printing patterns with layers
Why should I print patterns in layers?
Printing patterns has many advantages: You can start sewing right away and don't have to wait for the paper pattern to arrive by post.
But sometimes, the many cutting lines can be confusing. That’s why patterns with a layer function are so popular. Only the selected pattern size is displayed and printed. This makes working and cutting out much easier for you.
How do you print patterns in layers?
In short: With a pattern that has a layer function, which you open with special software. Then you can select and print the layer you want. You don't need any special computer skills for this; it really is super easy.
What is a PDF pattern with layers?
Normally, patterns do not have layers. To offer the layer function, patterns must be specially prepared. This involves several technical steps. The finished pattern allows you to make only the size you need visible and printable.
Patterns with a layer function are usually marked as such in shops. The product description should always provide information on whether a pattern offers this function.
What do I need to print patterns in layers?
You don't need to buy expensive equipment; that is the great advantage of layer printing.
This is what you need for layer printing:
- PDF pattern with layer function
- Computer or laptop
- "Adobe Acrobat Reader" software
- A4 printer
We recommend installing the software on a computer. On mobile phones or tablets, not all functions may be displayed correctly.
How can you print patterns in layers?
You have bought your eBook pattern with a layer function and now have a PDF file in front of you. You can print the A4 file comfortably from home with your printer.
To open the PDF, you need the free Adobe Acrobat Reader. You can download it here. Install it on your computer.
Printing
Go to File > Print and select your printer.
- Select Actual size
- Under “Pages to print”, select All
- Click “Print”
- The pattern will now be printed.
Gluing
Before gluing, make sure the test square has a side length of 3 cm.
The blue lines on the individual pages should overlap. You can cut off one edge and glue it overlapping to the next page. Tip: Use thin 60g paper. The lines will show through, and you won't need to cut anything.
Now you can cut out the pattern.
The result is a clean pattern with only one size.
Tip: If, for example, you wear a different size in the chest area than in the waist area, you can select two sizes and connect the cutting lines with a pattern curve.
Layer printing with A0 patterns
You can also have your A0 pattern with a layer function printed in layers at a copy shop. You can prepare the file at home by only displaying the layer you want to have printed in Acrobat Reader. Then save the pattern with the selected size to a USB stick.
Take the pattern on a USB stick to the copy shop and have it printed.
You can also take the entire file with you and tell the copy shop staff which size should be printed.
Where can I find patterns with a layer function?
There is usually a note in the product description of PDF patterns stating whether the eBook has a layer function.
At SewSimple, all patterns in the shop will gradually be updated with layers. And don't worry: if you prefer old-school patterns, they are always included anyway.
Have you already bought a pattern that has now been updated? Good for you! You can simply download it fresh from your customer account.
The eBooks for paper patterns also have a layer function. You can find the corresponding information in the respective product description.
➡️ Important to know: Our pattern overviews and assembly guides are only for the B/W patterns without a layer function!
We wish you lots of fun printing and sewing.
Happy simple sewing, Eve & Sabine
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