Buying a PDF sewing pattern is one of the easiest ways to start your next sewing project. Within minutes of your purchase, you'll have instant access to your pattern with no waiting delays for shipping nor extra costs, and, most importantly, you can print it whenever you're ready.

If you need a PDF file reader to open your patterns, I highly recommend the free app Adobe Acrobat Reader.

1. DOWNLOAD YOUR PDF PATTERN

After receiving the email titled “Your Mimi Sewing Company digital files,” click on “Access your files / Accéder à vos fichiers.”

Once you’re in your Pattern Library, download all the files related to the pattern you purchased. Make sure to save them directly to your computer, as there is a limit of 5 downloads per file.


          2. CHOOSE YOUR PRINTING FORMAT

Every Mimi Sewing Company pattern includes two printing options, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

Print at Home (A4 / US Letter)

Use the A4/US Letter file if you're printing on a standard home printer. The pattern will print across multiple pages that you'll assemble with tape.

Print at a Copy Shop (A0)

Prefer to skip assembling pages? Use the A0 file and have it printed at your local copy shop or print service. You'll receive one large sheet that's ready to use immediately.


3. PREPARE YOUR PRINTER SETTINGS

Before printing the entire pattern, make sure your printer settings are correct.

To select the size of your choice:

 
  1. Open the PDF file in software such as Adobe Acrobat Reader.
  2. Click the “Layers” icon in the top-right corner.
  3. Hide the sizes you do not need by clicking the eye icon on the left of each layer.
  4. Keep the “Text” layer visible.


Use the following settings:

     
    • Paper Size: US Letter (or A4 if applicable)
    • Page Sizing: Actual Size (100%)
    • Orientation: Auto

    Avoid options such as "Fit to Page", "Scale to Fit", or any automatic resizing, as these will change the size of the pattern pieces.


    4. PRINT THE TEST PAGE

    Always print the first page only before printing the complete document.

    This page includes a test square that allows you to verify the printing scale.

    Measure the square with a ruler:

    • If it measures exactly as indicated, you're ready to continue.
    • If it doesn't, check your printer settings and print the page again.

    Taking a minute to verify the scale will save you fabric, time, and frustration later.

    5. PRINT THE FULL PATTERN

    Once the test square is accurate, print the remaining pages using the exact same settings.

    Double-check that your printer is not automatically resizing the pages during printing.


    6. ASSEMBLE THE PATTERN

    Follow the page guide included with your pattern to assemble the pages in the correct order.

    For a complete assembly tutorial with photos, illustrations and helpful tips, see our blog post: How to Assemble a PDF Sewing Pattern.

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