PDF PATTERNS - FAQ
DOWNLOADABLE PDF SEWING PATTERNS
Do you usually use envelope patterns, paper patterns, or tracing patterns from "sewing" magazines? Discover my digital downloadable patterns.
What is a PDF pattern?
It's a digital pattern that you receive by email. You do not receive a paper pattern by post.
After ordering, you receive the pattern by email, download it, and save it to your computer. You print it and assemble the sheets to reconstruct the pattern.
The pattern is full size. It has been "cut" so that it can be printed on A4 sheets.
I'll tell you more below...
What does the pattern I receive contain?
- The pattern is full size
It is cut to be printed on standard sheets used in France, A4 format. Margins are provided around the entire perimeter of the sheets. You cut these margins and then glue the sheets with adhesive tape to reconstruct the pattern: a diagram representing the reconstruction is provided on the first page of the pattern.
The number of pages to print and cut is specified in the description of each model.
- The step-by-step instructions
It first includes some advice to help you choose the right size and fabric.
A table indicates the fabric and haberdashery needed to make the model according to the chosen size.
The pieces to cut are also specified: a cutting plan and a diagram representing the pieces you should obtain help you with this step.
The step-by-step instructions guide you through making the model: the different stages are described and illustrated with diagrams.
I advise you to read these explanations all the way through before starting to sew. Understanding how the model is assembled will help you avoid potential errors.
Downloading patterns
Once payment is registered, you will be automatically redirected to the shop to view your order confirmation.
The pattern is directly downloadable on this page.
To download the pattern, the latest version of "Acrobat Reader" software is required (at least, a recent version!). Most of you have it on your computer (it's the software that allows you to open email attachments you receive). If you don't have this software, it can be downloaded free from the Adobe website.
New patterns are provided as ZIP files, so an application for unzipping and reading ZIP files is necessary (e.g., Winzip).
If you encounter difficulties during download (on tablets and smartphones or depending on the internet browser used, downloading does not always work correctly), contact me (contact@lydie-e.fr) specifying your order number, and I will send you the pattern as soon as possible (usually within 24 business hours).
Remember to save the pattern so you can reuse it.
If you lose it and cannot download it again, please inform me by email at the following address: contact@lydie-e.fr, and I will send it to you again.
Printing patterns
Pattern printing is intended in colors (lines of different colors depending on the size, the right/wrong side of the fabric is represented in different colors in the explanations). But since the lines are different from one size to another, you can also print in black and white. You will differentiate the lines without problems.
For the pattern size to be respected, it is important to print the pattern at 100% (actual size).
Do not select "scaling" or "fit to print area" when printing, as the pattern size would not be correct.
A scale (control square) on the first page of the pattern allows you to check the print size. Start by printing the first page and check that the scale matches (the printed square should measure 5 cm by 5 cm). If not, review your print settings.
Once the sheets are printed, fold or cut around the edge and reconstruct the pattern by assembling the sheets with adhesive tape as indicated on the diagram on the first page of the pattern.
Are seam allowances included?
Seam and hem allowances are included: they are 1 cm for most models (7 mm for some older patterns).
Hem allowances vary from model to model. They are specified for each model.
I'm a beginner, will I be able to sew a Lydie.E model?
The patterns are accompanied by illustrated explanations that help to understand the making of the model. The step-by-step guide helps you in making the model: the different steps are described and illustrated with diagrams.
I advise you to read these explanations all the way through before starting to sew.
A difficulty level is specified for each pattern on our site, so choose level 1 and 2 patterns to start with.
The patterns will not teach you how to sew, but you can find many books at your bookstore dedicated to getting started in sewing, and many tutorials online that will help you get started.
I also advise you to consult "my tutorials" and do not hesitate to contact me by email (contact@lydie-e.fr), I will be happy to help and advise you.
Can I sell a model sewn from a Lou and Me or Lydie.E pattern, or organize a sewing workshop using a Lou and Me or Lydie.E pattern?
"Lou and Me" and "Lydie.E" patterns (and free patterns) are for private use only. Any commercial use (sale of clothing or accessories, sewing workshops and classes based on our patterns) is prohibited or subject to authorization.
If you have any questions about this, contact me (contact@lydie-e.fr)
Do you have a question about patterns?
Contact me and I will reply as soon as possible: contact@lydie-e.fr
Lydie