Your guide to Jalie PDF patterns

New to PDF patterns? We’ll help you find your files, choose how to print them, and get your pattern ready for sewing.

A PDF pattern is a digital pattern you download and save. You can print it at home, have it printed by a print service, or use with a projector

Already know what you need? Jump to a section:

  1. What’s included
  2. Access, choose and download the files you need
  3. Which format is best for you?
  4. Print the sizes you need (how to use the layers functionality)
  5. Get help

1. What’s included with Jalie PDF patterns?

On your download page, you’ll find the instructions and the pattern files available for your purchase. Each file has a different purpose. you don’t need to print them all.

  • Instructions
    They include the sewing instructions and information to help you choose your size and prepare your project, such as measurement charts and cutting layouts. You can read them on a screen or print them to keep beside your sewing machine.
  • Print-at-home file (print on US Letter/A4)
    This file divides the pattern into smaller pages for a regular printer. Once printed, you assemble the pages to create your pattern pieces.
  • Large-format file (Copy Shop / A0)
    This file is designed for a print shop with a large-format printer. It lets you have your pattern printed on large sheets instead of assembling Letter/A4 pages.
  • Projector file
    This file is prepared for use with a sewing projector, so you can project the pattern pieces onto your fabric.

The available formats and sizes are listed on your pattern’s product page and download page.

2. Access and choose the files you need

After your order is processed, you can access your files through the download link on your order confirmation page, in the download email you will receive right after you complete your purchase or through your activated Jalie account (the My Downloads page).

  1. Download the instructions
  2. Download the pattern files (all or only the format you want)

IMPORTANT: Save using the "download" or "save" command. DO NOT use "print as PDF" as it will flatten all the layers and you will no longer be able to print one size at a time. Not sure how to do that? 

TIP: Save the files somewhere you can find it again, such as a folder named “Jalie patterns.” Saving the files means you can return to them whenever you’re ready to sew.

Can’t find the download email? Check your spam or junk folder.

3. Which format is best for you ?

You want to print at home -> Choose the Letter/A4 file.

 

You will need a regular printer, paper, tape or glue, and scissors. Before printing the whole pattern, print the first two pages to have the layout handy and check if the pattern printed to scale.

Once the scale is correct, print the pages you need and follow the assembly layout. You need help printing and assembling?

How to print one size at a time 🎥
Print settings to make sure your pattern prints to scale
How to assemble a print-at-home PDF pattern 🎥

You'd rather have it printed for you -> Choose the copy-shop file

 
A local print shop or an online pattern-printing service can print it for you on A0 sheets or continuous 36-inch paper. 
You can choose between black and white or color printing. Some shops may also ask if you want the pattern folded or rolled up, if you want to pick it up or have it mailed to you. Here is a list of online shops where you can email or upload your copy-shop file for printing.

List of online copy shops (upload and mail or local pickup)

You have a projector installed in your sewing room -> Choose the projector file

 

Use it with your calibrated sewing projector setup.

Check the projected scale before cutting your fabric.

You will find information about projectors in community groups on Facebook like Projectors for Sewing

 

 

4. How to print/project only the size(s) you need

All Jalie patterns include severals sizes (children and adults in the same pattern). To make tracing easier, our PDF patterns have layers, which let you show or hide individual sizes when printing.

To use that feature you need to :

  • Use a computer (not a tablet or cell phone)
  • Open the file in Adobe Reader (free)

You can keep one size visible, or several if you need to blend between sizes. The layers are toggled on/off when viewing before for printing, but that visibility setting cannot be saved.

How to print one size at a time 🎥

5. You need help?

If something doesn’t look right, this mini FAQ can help:

  • I can’t find or download my files
    Look in your inbox and junk mail folder for an email titled "Links for PDF patterns in order #..." or click "My Downloads" at the top of the website.

  • I can't see the markings all around, part of the page is cutoff
    It is usually a print setting issue. Make sure you are using Adobe Reader to print and that the settings are the same as what is shown on our "How to print" page.

  • I can’t find the layers
    1) Download again, making sure to use the "Download" or "Save" command. DO NOT Print as PDF.
    2) On a computer (not a mobile device), open the file in Adobe Reader and, in the menu, select "View > Show/Hide > Layer" or click the Layers icon 

Still stuck?

Contact us with your pattern name, order number, and a description of what’s happening. When we reply, we may ask for screenshots and photos to help us troubleshoot.

Want to try using a PDF before buying the pattern you need?

Our Emilie turtleneck pattern is free! Download the files, print a few pages, and try assembling them. It’s an easy way to get the hang of PDF patterns before buying the one you’ve been eyeing.