Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pattern Emporium?

Pattern Emporium is an Australian independent sewing pattern company creating modern PDF sewing patterns for sewists around the world.

Our patterns are all about clothes you'll actually love wearing: contemporary, relaxed styles with plenty of options so you can make them your own.

Each pattern is designed and developed in Australia and thoroughly tested by a team of sewists from around the world before release.

Are your patterns beginner friendly?

Absolutely. Our tutorials are designed to guide you through the sewing process, breaking techniques down into clear, manageable steps so you can tackle things you may not have tried before.

You'll find:

• Step-by-step instructions
• Photos and diagrams
• Helpful sewing tips throughout
• Preparation and printing guidance
• Extra help with techniques when you need it

Even experienced sewists often tell us they discover new techniques through our tutorials.

What makes Pattern Emporium patterns different?

We love giving you options. Lots of them.

Many Pattern Emporium patterns include multiple necklines, sleeves, lengths, finishes and style variations, giving you plenty of different looks from the one pattern. Rather than buying a new pattern every time you want to change a detail, you can mix and match the options to make it your own.

We're all about modern, wearable clothes you'll actually want to reach for. Our designs are relaxed and contemporary, with thoughtful details and plenty of versatility built in.

We also put a huge amount of work into making the sewing process approachable. Our tutorials don't just tell you what to do. We break techniques down into clear, manageable steps with photographs, diagrams and helpful tips along the way.

Real bodies are a big part of Pattern Emporium. We think it's important that you can see our patterns made and worn by real sewists across a range of sizes, shapes, heights and ages. Our tester photos show each design in different fabrics, with different options and on different bodies, so you get a much better idea of how the pattern can look in real life.

Fit matters too. Our tutorials include sizing, fitting and adjustment guidance specific to each design, and many patterns include additional fitting options such as Full Bust Adjustment pieces.

And before a pattern reaches you, it's thoroughly tested by a large team of sewists across our size range, helping us refine both the pattern and the instructions before release.

Are your patterns digital or paper?

All Pattern Emporium patterns are digital PDF sewing patterns. We do not offer printed paper patterns.

Most patterns include:

• Layers* - so you can just print your size.
• Print-at-home files (that can be printed on A4 and Letter paper)
• A0 copy shop files
• Projector files*
• A detailed tutorial PDF
• Read Me files where required

*Note that a couple of our older patterns do not include layers or projector files. This will always be noted in the 'Digital Pattern Details' tab on each pattern. 

How do PDF sewing patterns work?

After purchase, your files are instantly available in your Pattern Library.

You can:

• Print at home and tape pages together
• Send the A0 file to a copy shop
• Use a projector file instead of printing

Each pattern includes detailed guidance to walk you through the process.

I’ve never used a PDF pattern before. Is it hard?

It can feel a little different at first if you’re used to traditional tissue patterns, but most sewists are surprised how quickly they get the hang of it.

Many customers end up preferring PDF patterns because you can:

• Access patterns instantly
• Reprint sizes anytime
• Print only the pages you need
• Use layers to hide sizes you don't need

We also provide detailed tutorials, printing guidance, and support.

What is included in my download?

Each pattern download generally includes:

• A detailed written tutorial with step-by-step instructions and photos
• Print-at-home pattern files
• A0 copy shop files
• Projector files, for applicable patterns
• Read Me files where required

Can I print the tutorial?

Our tutorials are designed to be read on a device such as a computer, tablet or phone.

The tutorials include:

• Sizing information
• Fabric guidance
• Printing help
• Cutting layouts
• Photographed sewing steps

Some customers do choose to print their tutorial, or selected pages to keep beside them while sewing. However, our tutorials are digital PDFs and aren't optimised for home printing. Many of the photographs and graphics are designed to be viewed on screen and may not reproduce clearly when printed.

Where do I find my patterns?

Your purchased patterns are stored in your Pattern Library and can be downloaded or re-downloaded whenever you need them.

Here's how to find them:

1. Select Download My Patterns from the menu on the Pattern Emporium website.
2. Sign in when prompted.
3. Select the large pink Enter Your Pattern Library Here button.
4. Your purchased patterns will appear in alphabetical order. Select the pattern you'd like to access.
5. Select the pattern, tutorial or other file(s) you'd like to download.

How do I download? Can I save it?

Go to your Pattern Library, select the pattern you want, then click the file you'd like to download.

On a computer:
Your file will usually be saved automatically to your Downloads folder. From there, you can open it or move it to a folder of your choice. Many customers create a Pattern Emporium folder to keep their patterns and tutorials together.

On a phone or iPad:
Downloading and saving files works a little differently. Follow our step-by-step guide to make sure your files are saved somewhere you can easily find them again.

Once your files are saved, you don't need to download them again each time you want to read the tutorial or print your pattern.

You'll find our step-by-step guides under Help & Resources > Downloading:

Downloading & Printing on a Computer

Downloading to an iPhone or iPad

I can’t find my patterns

This is usually caused by customers accidentally creating multiple accounts using different email addresses.

Please:

• Check which email address was used at checkout
• Log out and back in again
• Type your email manually instead of relying on autofill
• Double-check that autofill hasn’t inserted another email address

If needed, we can help merge accounts.

I haven’t received my download email

You can still access your patterns at any time through your Pattern Library by following the steps above.

However, your order email contains your download information along with helpful links and information about using your Pattern Emporium patterns, so it's worth finding and keeping.

If you haven't received it, please check:

• Your spam or junk folder
• Your Promotions folder
• That you're checking the email address you used at checkout

If you still can't find your email or need help, please contact us and we'll be happy to assist.

My pattern won’t download

Most download issues are caused by:

• Opening links through Facebook or email apps
• Browser issues
• Older devices
• Incomplete downloads

We recommend:

• Opening download emails directly in Safari or Chrome
• Avoiding Facebook in-app browsers
• Trying another device if possible

Why can’t I reset my password?

This usually means you’re trying to reset a password for an email address that doesn’t have an account attached to it.

Double-check which email address was used to purchase.

I’ve used all my downloads. What do I do?

If you've reached the download limit for a file, please contact us via our Contact Us page and we'll reset it for you.

Contact Pattern Emporium

Running out of downloads usually happens for one of two reasons:

• Clicking the download button multiple times. Downloads aren't always instant, so give the file a moment to download before clicking again. Each click counts as a separate download.
• Downloading the file each time you want to use it. Once you've downloaded and saved your pattern or tutorial, open the saved copy from your computer or device rather than downloading it again from your Pattern Library.

If you're not sure where your downloaded files are saved, see How do I download & save my files to my computer or device? above.

What are the basics of printing my pattern at home?

Pattern Emporium patterns are designed to be printed at home on A4 or US Letter paper and then joined together.

For the best results:

• Use Adobe Acrobat Reader (free) on a desktop or laptop, or the Sewsy app on a phone, iPad or Chromebook.
• Use Layers to hide the sizes you don't need. Keep the Pattern Information layer visible.
• Check the Printing Guide in your tutorial and print only the pages you need for your chosen style and size.
• Select Actual Size / 100% in your printer settings. Do not use Fit, Shrink or other scaling options.
• Set the page orientation to Auto.
• Print the first test square and measure it before printing the remaining pages.
• Once printed, join the pages together using your preferred assembly method.

For more detailed printing help, go to Help & Resources > Printing Help on our website.

How do I print my pattern at home step by step?

Before printing the pattern, go through the sizing steps in the tutorial (page 4) to determine what size(s) you need to print.

1. Download the print-at-home pattern file to your computer or device.
2. Open the file in Adobe Acrobat Reader on a desktop/laptop, or in the Sewsy app on a phone, tablet, iPad or Chromebook.
3. Choose your size layer(s) and hide the sizes you don’t need. Keep the Pattern Information layer visible.
4. Check the Printing Guide in your tutorial to see which pages you need for your chosen style and size.

5. Check your printer settings. Select:

   • Actual Size / 100%
   • No scaling
   • Orientation: Auto

   Not sure what your settings should look like? Use our handy Printer Settings Guide while you print.

   View the Printer Settings Guide

6. Enter only the page numbers you need from the Printing Guide.
7. Print the first test square and measure it carefully.
8. If the test square is correct, print the remaining pages.

9. Join your printed pages together. If you're new to PDF patterns, our step-by-step guide shows you exactly how to assemble your printed pattern pages.

   How to Join PDF Pattern Pages Together

   New to PDF sewing patterns? Our Beginners Video Series walks you through the basics, from downloading and printing your pattern through to getting ready to sew.

   Pattern Emporium for Beginners

For more detailed help, visit Help & Resources > Printing Help on our website.

What program should I use to open the files?

For desktop/laptop printing, we recommend Adobe Acrobat Reader, which is free.

For phone or tablet printing, we recommend the Sewsy app.

Opening files in browsers or social media apps will cause issues with printing correctly.

Can I print from my iPad or phone?

Yes.

For phone or tablet printing, we recommend using the Sewsy app.

For desktop/laptop printing, Adobe Reader is recommended.

Do I need to print every page?

No.

Most patterns include multiple variations, lengths and options, so you only need to print the pages required for the version you're making.

Print At Home Patterns: Your tutorial includes a printing guide outlining exactly which pages you need to print for your chosen size and style.

A0 Copy Shop Patterns: Some patterns include alternative pattern pieces on separate A0 pages. For example, different front styles, lengths or FBA options may each have their own pattern pieces. This gives you clearly separated pieces without having to trace, overlap or guess, but it also means you may not need to print every A0 page.

Check the Printing Specs page in your tutorial before sending your A0 file to the printer. It will tell you which pages you need. Some patterns may also include additional printing information within the A0 file itself or in a Read Me / Read This First file in your Pattern Library.

What is an A0 file?

An A0 file is a large-format copy shop file designed to be printed professionally on large sheets of paper instead of taping together A4/Letter pages at home.

Our A0 files are already set up to print at the correct size: 84.1cm x 118.9cm.

When sending files to a printer, ask for:

• A0 / plan printing
• 100% / actual size
• No scaling
• Only the size layer(s) you need printed

Pattern Emporium pattern files include multiple size layers, so you'll need to let your printer know which size or sizes you'd like printed.

We recommend using a copy shop or pattern printing service that is familiar with PDF sewing patterns. They'll understand pattern layers and know how to print your file at the correct scale.

Do I have to tape pages together?

Only if you choose the print-at-home option.

Many customers prefer using the A0 copy shop file instead.

Where can I get A0 files printed?

You can have your A0 pattern printed at a local copy shop or use a specialist PDF sewing pattern printing service.

If you're new to PDF sewing patterns, we recommend using a printer experienced with sewing patterns. They'll understand important things like size layers, printing at the correct scale and which information needs to remain visible.

Our A0 Printing Guide includes printing tips plus pattern printing services recommended by our customers in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom.

View our A0 Printing Guide

I want to print an A0 pattern, but I don't know what to ask for

If you're taking your A0 pattern to a copy shop, ask for:

• A0 / plan printing
• 100% / Actual Size
• No scaling
• Colour or black & white, whichever you prefer
• Only the A0 pages you need
• Only the size layer(s) you need

Before sending your file, check the Printing Specs page in your tutorial to see which A0 pages you actually need for your chosen style and size.

If you're new to PDF sewing patterns, we recommend using a copy shop or pattern printing service that has experience printing sewing patterns. They'll understand things like pattern layers, scale and selecting the correct pages.

Our A0 Printing Guide explains what to ask for and includes pattern printing services recommended by our customers.

A0 Copy Shop Printing Guide

Why are there multiple A0 pages?

Pattern Emporium patterns often include:

• Multiple sizes
• Multiple lengths
• Sleeve options
• Neckline options
• Different views
• Fitting options

Rather than purchasing separate patterns, everything is included in the one pattern.

Check the Printing Specs page in your tutorial to see whether all A0 pages need to be printed and which pages you'll need for your chosen options. Some patterns may also include a Read Me file with additional printing information.

My printer or copy shop says the A0 file is A4 or Letter size

This is usually caused by:

• Incorrect print settings
• “Fit to page” being selected
• The file being opened incorrectly

A0 files should always print:

• At 100%
• Actual size
• No scaling
• As A0 / plan printing

My print shop says the file isn’t a PDF or A0

Our A0 files are standard PDF files already set up at A0 size.

If this occurs, try:

• Downloading the file again
• Opening it in Adobe Reader
• Using a different browser

Why does the About Town Popover have 8 A0 pages?

Yes there are 8 pages but you don't need to print all of them. Here's why. 

The About Town Popover includes lots of options, with many supplied as separate pattern pieces rather than layered over one another.

You're getting:

• 2 front styles
• 2 top lengths
• 2 dress lengths
• 2 Full Bust Adjustment (FBA) options

Providing these as separate pattern pieces means you don't have to trace, overlap or guess which lines belong to your chosen style.

You do not need to print all 8 pages. First determine your size and chosen options, then check the Printing Specs on page 8 of the tutorial to see exactly which A0 pages you need to print.

You'll also find this information on page 1 of the A0 file and in the Read This First file in your Pattern Library.

Do your patterns include layers?

Most of our patterns include layered files.

Information about whether a pattern includes layers can be found:

• On the website under the 'Digital Pattern Details' tab
• Within the pattern files themselves

I can’t find the Layers icon in Adobe Reader

Adobe occasionally changes the Reader interface, and the Layers icon may not be visible where you expect to find it.

Our step-by-step guide shows you how to find and display the Layers panel in newer versions of Adobe Reader.

Where has the Layers icon gone?

I want to print from my phone or iPad, but I can't see the different sizes. What do I do?

Download the Sewsy app from the App Store. It's a free app made specifically for using PDF sewing patterns on your phone or iPad and makes selecting your pattern size layers simple.

The Adobe Reader mobile app doesn't give you access to the different size layers in your pattern, which is why you can't see or select the sizes you need.

Open your Pattern Emporium PDF pattern in Sewsy, select the size layer or layers you want, then print your pattern from there.

TIP: Make sure you select the Pattern Information layer too. If you're grading between sizes, simply leave all the sizes you need selected.

What is a projector file?

Projector files allow you to project the pattern directly onto fabric instead of printing.

Most projector-compatible patterns include:

• Multi-coloured size lines
• BLK versions, all black size lines

What does “BLK” mean on projector files?

BLK simply means the projector file uses black size lines instead of coloured ones.

Can I use a projector instead of printing?

Yes.

Most Pattern Emporium patterns include projector files so you can choose the setup that works best for you.

How do I choose my size?

We strongly recommend using your body measurements and following the sizing instructions in the tutorial rather than choosing based on ready-to-wear clothing size.

I’m between sizes. What should I do?

One of the best things about sewing for yourself is that you can blend between sizes and customise garments to suit your own proportions and preferences.

The tutorials explain how to choose and blend sizes where needed.

Do I need to make adjustments?

Possibly, just like with all sewing patterns.

Bodies are unique, and personal preferences also play a role. Many customers sew a first version to determine whether they’d like to make any personal adjustments for future makes.

What cup size are your patterns drafted for?

We don't draft using traditional cup sizes. Instead, we guide you to choose your size based on your upper bust measurement, taken without a bra, directly above the bust with a firm hand.

Each pattern then includes specific guidance to help determine whether you may need a Full Bust Adjustment (FBA). This takes into account:

• The difference between your upper bust and full bust measurements
• The fit and silhouette of that particular pattern
• The amount of ease built into the design

The recommendation can vary from pattern to pattern. Some patterns may recommend an FBA when there's more than a two-size difference between your upper and full bust measurements, while others may not require one due to the ease in the design. Some patterns also include optional FBA pattern pieces to make the adjustment easier.

You'll find the information you need in the Sizing & Fit section of each pattern tutorial.

If you need help choosing your size or working out whether you need an FBA, Melanie and the community in our Pattern Emporium Sewing Circle are always happy to help.

Can I customise your patterns?

Absolutely.

Many customers adjust:

• Sleeve lengths
• Necklines
• Hems
• Pockets
• Rises
• Fit preferences

That’s the beauty of sewing for yourself.

Why is fabric choice so important?

Fabric choice can completely change how a garment looks and feels.

A soft drapey fabric will behave very differently from a thick structured fabric, even when using the exact same pattern.

That’s why we include extensive fabric guidance throughout our tutorials.

What fabrics should I use?

Each pattern includes a detailed Fabric & Trims section on both the website and within the tutorial.

Many tutorials also include guidance on:

• What works well
• What to avoid
• Why certain fabrics behave better than others

What if my make doesn’t look like the sample photos?

Fabric choice, drape, weight, stretch, and styling can all affect the final result.

We strongly recommend reading the fabric recommendations carefully before purchasing fabric.

Do your patterns include written instructions?

Yes.

Every pattern includes a detailed tutorial with step-by-step instructions and photographed sewing steps.

The tutorials begin with preparation and setup information before moving into the sewing instructions.

Do you provide sewing tutorial videos?

No.

We do not provide step-by-step sewing tutorial videos.

We do create “What’s In The Pattern?” videos, which showcase pattern features, styling ideas, fabric inspiration, and variations.

What is the “What’s In The Pattern?” video?

These videos walk you through the pattern options, design features, fabric ideas, and styling inspiration.

They’re designed to help you visualise the pattern before sewing.

Where do the sewing instructions begin?

The tutorials begin with preparation and setup information first, followed by the sewing instructions.

There is also a clickable contents page at the beginning so you can jump directly to sections.

What is the Pattern Emporium Sewing Circle?

Pattern Emporium Sewing Circle is our supportive Facebook community of over 50,000 sewists from around the world. There are experienced sewists & brand new sewists. 

It’s the best place for:

• Printing help
• Fit advice
• Fabric suggestions
• Sewing inspiration
• Sharing your makes

Where can I get help with sewing, fit or printing?

All sewing, fit, printing, and pattern support is provided in our free Facebook community: Pattern Emporium Sewing Circle.

Mel and the community provide experienced help and advice there.

I don’t use Facebook. Can I still get help?

Yes.

You can always email us for:

• Account help
• Order help
• Download issues

However, all sewing, fit, and printing support is provided within the Facebook group, as visual help and community discussion are often the quickest and most effective way to solve these questions.

How long does group approval take?

The group is private, so approvals are done manually by a real person.

Please allow time for approvals, especially across weekends and time zones. We are based in Australia, AEST.

Why was my group request not approved?

Most commonly, this is because the membership questions were not completed.

Please answer all membership questions so we can review your request.

How does 50-Off Friday work?

50-Off Friday is a special promotion where a selected Pattern Emporium pattern is discounted by 50% for a limited time.

When it runs, the sale starts at 7am Friday AEST and finishes at 12 noon Saturday AEST. Because our customers come from far and wide, we include a range of international time zones in our email and Facebook announcements. You'll also find a handy countdown timer on the website, so you can easily see how much sale time is left.

When a 50-Off Friday is coming up, we'll announce the featured pattern by email and in the Pattern Emporium Sewing Circle Facebook group.

It doesn't run every Friday. 50-Off Friday generally takes a break during a pattern release week and the week following a new release, and doesn't run during other promotions.

Can I use multiple discounts together?

Unless otherwise stated, discounts and promotions cannot be combined.

Can I get a discount for buying multiple patterns?

You sure can! Our Bundle Up to Save discount is applied automatically at checkout:

• Buy 2 patterns and get 10% off
• Buy 3–4 patterns and get 15% off
• Buy 5+ patterns and get 20% off

No discount code needed. Just add your patterns to your cart and the discount will be applied automatically.

Why didn’t my discount apply?

Some promotions exclude:

• New releases
• Bundles
• Selected patterns

These exclusions are outlined:

• On the website
• In promotional emails
• On collection pages
• On product listings

Can discounts be applied after a sale ends?

Unfortunately, discounts generally cannot be applied after a promotion has ended.

Do you offer refunds?

Due to the nature of digital products, refunds are not offered once files have been downloaded.

If files have not been downloaded, please contact us.

Can I get printed patterns posted to me?

No.

Pattern Emporium patterns are digital-only PDF sewing patterns.

How long does it take to receive a reply?

We aim to respond within 48 business hours, Monday to Friday, AEST.

Please remember Pattern Emporium is a small business, and replies may take a little longer during sales, launches, and weekends.

Where can I get help?

The best place to get help depends on what you need:

Fitting, Sewing, Printing & Pattern Questions

Head to our Pattern Emporium Sewing Circle on Facebook.

It's our free support community where Mel provides experienced fitting guidance, questions are worked through thoughtfully, and you can also learn from fellow sewists from all around the world.

Account, Download & Order Questions

Please contact us via our Contact Us page and we'll be happy to help.