Free printer test
How to print a PDF sewing pattern at the right size
In short: open the PDF in Adobe Reader or your browser, choose Actual size / 100% (never “Fit to page”), print the test page and measure the square with a ruler. If it is exactly 10 cm (or 4 in), print the pattern with the same settings. Free test page below — no account.
Step by step
- Print the test page at 100% / Actual size. Turn off “Fit”, “Shrink oversized pages” and borderless printing.
- Measure the square. Off by more than 1 mm? Fix the printer setting, not the pattern.
- Print the pattern. Each page has a tile name (A1, A2…) and the names of its neighbours at the edges.
- Trim the top and left margin of each page, overlap it onto its neighbour so the grey frame lines meet, and tape.
- Check the 5 cm bar on a few pages as you go.
Using a projector or a copy shop
Every paid pattern also includes a single-sheet A0 PDF. Copy shops print it on one large sheet at 100%. For projector sewing, calibrate until the 10 cm square on the sheet measures 10 cm on your cutting mat.
Questions
Why is my printed pattern slightly smaller?
Almost always 'Fit to page' or 'Shrink oversized pages' is on. Some printers also have their own scaling in the printer properties dialog.
A4 or US Letter?
Choose the paper in your tray. The tool picks Letter automatically for US browsers; you can switch before downloading.