Last updated on April 9th, 2024 at 01:28 pm
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What software do I need to use for my sewing projector? Adobe Reader is the software that you will use to project patterns. This software is probably already installed installed to use with your print-at-home PDF patterns!
Adobe for Laptops and Computers
Adobe Reader DC is the basic software you need to project patterns on a projector. This is a free PDF reader for laptops and computers.
Need help downloading and getting started with Adobe? Then make sure to check out the tutorials on Adobe. Start with Introduction to Adobe for Pattern Projecting. This article will teach you how to download for free, access layers, invert colors, rotate pages, and set preferences. I highly recommend you look at it before calibrating your projector.
Make sure that the patterns are opening up in the actually application and not “preview” mode in Adobe. Right click and select “open with” if you need to.
The Adobe Reader mobile apps do not all you to access layers and type in zoom. For mobile devices and Chromebooks, we recommend Xodo.
PDF Stitcher
PDF Stitcher is a free open source program made specifically for projector sewing purposes. It is available on computers (Mac and Windows).
You can take a regular PDF pattern file that is A4 or letter-sized and convert it to projector file format! It also allows you to add margins, delete layers, change line color and thickness. You can also run a file through PDF stitcher to “unlock” it to use in Inkscape or Affinity Designer. For information on how to download and use the program, make sure to head over to our PDF Stitcher tutorial!
Other Optional Software: Inkscape and Affinity Designer
All you need to project patterns is either Adobe (computer) or Xodo (mobile and Chromebooks). However, if you want more control on grading, altering, and adjusting patterns, then you may want to look into other programs such as Inkscape or Affinity Designer.
Basic grading and adjustments can be made in adobe. This is done using the comment tools in Adobe. This tutorial demonstrates grading and height adjustments using Adobe. However, if you want to make changes to the actual pattern lines, unfold, mirror, add seam allowance, and much more, you need to check out Inkscape or Affinity Designer.
If you are not ready to branch out yet, don’t worry! Get the hang of pattern projecting then come back to the Tutorials page to learn about using Inkscape and Affinity Designer.
Inkscape allows you to do many of the same things in Affinity Designer, but one major difference is its inability to export layers. If you want to preserve layers, you will need to purchase Affinity Designer. To see the full differences between the two programs, check out this article on Inkscape Vs. Affinity Designer!
There is also a Facebook group dedicated to using Affinity Designer for Sewing. You can also check out the Projector Sewing YouTube channel for many videos using Affinity designer to make pattern adjustments!
Drivers for your Projector
Mini projectors and newer projectors do not need anything else installed on your computer. However, some older model projectors may require a driver.
If you chose to purchase a secondhand ultra-short throw projector or short throw projector, you might need to install a proper driver for your computer to read. This is usually only the case if you are connecting using a USB drive. Often nothing will need to be downloaded for HDMI connections. This is reviewed during the Calibration for UST (ultra-short throw) projectors.
If you install a casting device, such as a Chromecast, you would follow the manufacturers instructions to connect your computer to the projector.
Conclusion
The absolute basic software that you need for pattern projecting is Adobe Acrobat Reader DC. It is a free PDF reader that can be downloaded on laptops and computers. Xodo is the main app that is used to project patterns using a phone, tablet, or Chromebook.
Feel free to comment below if you have any questions!
Happy Sewing!
