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Are you looking for sewing pattern companies that offer “projector files” for PDF sewing patterns? Then, this page is for you! This is a MEGA list of sewing pattern companies that offer projector file formats for their sewing patterns. Check for the “top rated” pattern companies for companies that the files have been tested and approved for optimal projector sewing performance!
Click the button below to see the FULL list, or check out the top ten favorites below!
Using the Searchable Sewing Pattern Data Base
Here is how the searchable data base is used. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out or use the form below to submit your favorite pattern company below.
Company Name: This is the name of the sewing pattern company
Visit Link: Use this link to visit the company website and purchase patterns
5 Star Rated: Not all of the companies have been rated. If you see a 0, that means that the projector files have not been tested. Projector files are rated on quality and usability for projector sewing. If you have experience with a company listed, you can submit them again along with your experience with their files.
Cup sizes: Some companies include various cup sizes along with their standard sizing. If a company offers this, cups sizes will be labeled “true”. Check individual patterns for information on included cup sizes.
Categories: List the different file types that are included in the purchase of a pattern.
Vector Friendly: Many projector sewists make digital pattern alterations using Inkscape or Affinity (or other vector editing programs). If a file is vector friendly, they are files that are easier to work with in these programs.
Notes: Notes will explain any important details about the pattern files for projector sewing.
Standards for the Best PDF Sewing Pattern Projector Files
What does it take to be among the top rated projector file patterns? These qualities are what the projector sewing community has put together that makes a good projector file.
Nested Layered sizes: The sizes in a multi-size pattern must be nested layers that visibility can be turned on and off. This helps sewists isolate the sizes they need and grade as they cut or trace a pattern onto fabric.
Optimized Pattern Layout: Generally all pattern pieces should be on a single page, but if two pages are needed no pattern piece should be divided across two pages. Next, all pattern pieces should be laid out so the grainline is going in the same direction. Pattern pieces should be “unfolded” with a fold line down the center. If a pattern piece has cut two mirrored, both mirrored pieces should be included.
Vector-Friendly: Since we are no longer working with paper patterns, many projector sewists prefer to make digital pattern alterations using vector graphics programs such as Inkscape or Affinity. The best projector files do not inhibit this process. This means that the files do not have passwords that prevent them from opening in these programs. Next, the pattern lines should be in one continuous vector path. When a front top pattern piece is selected with the node tool, the entire path that is the top pattern piece should be selected. The vector paths should also be simplified to reduce the amount of nodes.
Text and Lines: The text on the pattern should be a large font size (at least 20pt) that can be read on a projector. Thick pattern lines between 3pt-6pt in high contrast colors. All instructions are clear on the pattern pieces, including cut 2 vs. cut 2 mirrored.
Markings and all pattern pieces: Markings such as notches are clearly visible. Pattern pieces including rectangles for cuffs and bands are included on the projector file. The cut chart and measurements for rectangle pieces should also be included on the pattern. A large calibration box or calibration layer is included for a quick check before cutting.
