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  How to Print PDF Patterns at home
A simple step by step guide
Download • Select Size • Print • Check Scale • Assemble 

armhole princess seam patterns

1. Download & Open

Download your pattern on a laptop or desktop (recommended over mobile devices). Save it in an easy-to-find folder, such as “PDF Sewing Patterns.”

Open the file in Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you don’t have it, download it free here.

3. Print at 100%

RAYENA PDF patterns are available in three paper sizes:

  • US Letter: 8.5 × 11 in (215.9 × 279.4 mm)

  • A4: 8.27 × 11.69 in (210 × 297 mm)

  • A0: 33.1 × 46.8 in (841 × 1189 mm)

Choose Letter or A4 based on your home printer. A0 is intended for large-format printing at a copy shop.

1. Check the Scale

After printing, locate the test square (usually on the first page) and measure it with a ruler. If it’s incorrect, check your print settings and print again.

For patterns with many pages, print the test-square page first.

2. Set Up Your Print

In Adobe Acrobat Reader, go to File → Print.

  • Select pages: Choose “All” to print everything, or use the Style Guide’s page layout to identify specific pages. Grey pages are blank and can be skipped.

  • Paper size: Select Letter or A4 to match your printer and PDF.

  • Scaling: Choose Actual Size (100%) or “None.” Never use “Fit” or other scaling options, as they can affect garment fit.

  • Black and white: Optional—select “Print color as black” to save color ink.

Important: Always check the test square before printing the entire pattern.

2

Trace & Transform​

Use the sloper as your base. Add style lines, change the shape, move the darts or develop your own design

Women's Bodice Sewing Patterns (1).png
Women's Bodice Sewing Patterns (1).png
Women's Bodice Sewing Patterns (1).png

2. Select Your Size

Important! Select your size(s) before printing to avoid overlapping lines. RAYENA patterns use layers, so you can print only the sizes you need.

  1. Open the Layers panel from the sidebar, or go to View → Show/Hide → Side Panels → Layers (menu wording may vary by version).

  2. Expand the layer group and use the eye icons to show your desired size(s) and hide the others.

  3. Keep “Pattern Labeling” and “Page Layout” visible. These contain pattern markings and page-assembly guidelines.

In the example above, only Size M is visible. You’re ready to print!

4. Tape & Assemble

PATTERN LAYOUT GRID

Use the grid layout in your pattern instructions to arrange the printed pages. Although patterns show nested sizes, only your selected sizes will print when using layers.

ASSEMBLE & TAPE

Align the page frames according to the grid layout. Fold or trim the edges, then match the ½-inch pie-shaped marks at the corners to form complete circles. Tape the pages together to assemble your pattern.

READY TO SEW?

RAYENA foundation patterns do not include seam or hem allowances. Add the required allowances before cutting your fabric.

Ready to create? Shop RAYENA Patterns

Add a quick checklist at the end - Check the test square before printing all pages. - Confirm all pages are printed at 100%. - Assemble pages using the layout grid. - Add seam and hem allowances before cutting, since your foundation patterns do not include them.

SEWING PDF PATTERNS

Rayena patterns do not include seam allowances. Please add hem and seam allowances before cutting out the pattern. And then you can start sewing! 

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Shop for patterns at RAYENA

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