Frequently Asked Questions

All of your purchased patterns can be found in your Pattern Library.

1. Select ‘Pattern Library’ from the menu bar. If you’re not already signed in, it will prompt you to do so.

2. Select the big pink button that says ‘Enter Your Pattern Library Here’.

3. You've now entered your personal pattern library. Select the pattern file you wish to download.

4. Then select the file (or files) you wish to download. These will download directly to your computer (generally to your downloads file.

If you've never used a PDF pattern before, we are only too happy to help.

The best place to start is with our PDF Beginners Video Series here. It guides you through:

• Accessing your account.
• Downloading the tutorial &/or pattern files.
• Tutorial tour (see inside our newest tutorials).
• Printing.
• Determining your PE pattern size.
• Joining the pattern pages.

You can also follow our step by step written guide here or join our Facebook Group here and get assistance from Mel, Kate or one of the other helpful group members. We'd love to see you there.

Most (70%) of our patterns include 3 pattern formats:

• Print at home - A4 / US Letter size.
• Copy shop - most are A0 size.
• Projector - most have large font, full pattern pieces, 1 file with colour size lines, 1 file with black size lines.

Some of our older patterns contain print at home & A0 files without layers, and no projector file. A few patterns only have 1 projector file.

It's important to check each listing before purchase under 'What You Get' tab.

We do not sell pre-printed paper patterns.

• Step by step sewing instructions - user friendly with tips included along the way.
• Cickable table of contents.
• Line drawings.
• Size and fit guide.
• Multi-sizing instructions where needed.
• Measurement tables in centimentres and inches.
• Fabric suggestions and fabric requirements charts in metres and yards.
• Printing guide - only print the size & style you want.
• Cutting guide showing suggested layouts
• Printing Specs.
• Inspiration photos from our testing team.
• Styling tips from Mel.
• Pattern hacks & mashes - to get more out of your PE patterns
• Common pattern adjustments where needed.
• 3 pdf pattern formats - Print at Home Pattern, Large Format Copyshop Pattern & Projector Pattern (only newer patterns have this option).

You will find a Size & Fit guide in your pattern. This helps you work out the best size to make for your personal measurements. You will also find body measurements in each pattern listing.

I love seeing both new & experienced sewers enjoy sewing & wearing clothes made using my patterns. I also know that not everyone can sew. So, small home-based handmade businesses selling items on Facebook, Etsy or similar, are welcome to sell products made from Pattern Emporium patterns, but I do kindly ask that you reference Pattern Emporium somewhere in your product descriptions.

The best way to get advice when you're sewing Pattern Emporium patterns, is to join our Facebook Group : the Pattern Emporium Sewing Circle. Even when I’m not around, there are lots of PE experienced ladies who are only too happy to help with any one of my patterns.

I don't own a overlocker (serger), how can I finish my edges? Instead, neaten your edges with a simple zigzag stitch. Grab a little scrap piece of the fabric you are using and do a test of which zigzag width and length works for that fabric.

Follow our guides here. or watch our beginners videos here.  

PROBLEM 1: Help! My pattern looks really small & there's only 2 pages! SOLUTION: Check the name of the file you're printing. If it's got the words 'A0' or 'Large Format', this is the copy shop file that you print on A0 size paper (841x1189mm).

Printing to the correct scale is important with PDF sewing patterns. For this reason, we ONLY recommend opening & printing in Adobe Reader. It's easy to do, and free. Most problems with opening or printing can often be solved by updating the program to the latest version. You'll find Adobe Reader free download here (click on the middle one, NOT the pro trial).

With your pattern open in Adobe Reader, select File > Print. Then select:

• Pages to print - add in what pages you'd like to print.

• Custom scale - 100%

• Choose paper source - Deselect this box

• Orientation - Auto

I really want to sew with rayon. Are there any tips or tricks? There sure are. Click here to go to the 'Tips & Tricks' section (under 'Other Stuff) to see my tips & tricks for sewing with rayon. It really is a fabulous fabric to wear & by following a few tips as you cut & sew, you're on your way to a successful project.

Looking for tips & tricks to sewing with denim? Denim can be very appealing to sew with but because it's so thick, it can be challenging too. By following a few simple steps, you'll be sewing denim with ease. Click here to check out our tips for sewing with denim.