Frequently Asked Questions

Are seam allowances included in the pattern?

Yes, all seam allowances are included in my patterns, so no need to add them in! The seam allowance is printed on each pattern piece as well as throughout the sewing instructions.

Can I sell products made from your patterns?

My patterns are for personal use only, and are not for commercial purposes. 

Where is my PDF pattern?

When you purchase a pattern, you are automatically emailed a download link. Please check your spam folder to see if it was sent there. Also be sure you used the correct email address when checking out. If you are still having trouble locating the download link, just send me a message and I would be happy to help. anna@annaallenclothing.com 

How many times can I download a PDF pattern? 

Once you have purchased, you will have 1 attempt to download the pattern. Please make sure you save the pdf files to either your desktop computer or to a cloud storage such as Google Drive for future use. If you have any trouble downloading the pattern or need help extracting the Zip file, don't hesitate to email me! Please include your order number so I can make sure to email the correct files. 

Do you sell paper patterns?

No, I only provide digital PDF patterns. However, I do include copy shop files for large scale printing in both US and A0 paper sizes (with the exception of a few of my earlier patterns). These can be printed at your local print shop or online at places like PDFplotting.com 

Are PDF patterns returnable?

Because of the nature of digital patterns, I am unable to accept returns (unless you accidentally ordered a duplicate). If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to send me a message.

How do I print the pattern on a home printer?

Download the zip file to your computer. Extract the zip file (double click) and open the print-at-home files in Adobe Reader for printing at home. Print at 100%, no scaling. Print the first page and measure the test square to make sure it has printed correctly. If the measurement is accurate, print the remaining pages. Cut around the edges, assemble the pages and tape together. 

How do I print the pattern at a copy/print shop?

If printing at a copy shop, I have not had good success using the self service printing machines (ie. the markings on some of the pattern pieces disappeared). Instead, please ask at the counter for the staff to open the file in Adobe Reader and print it. Let them know it should be printed “AS IS” (no scaling) and using black and white ink.

What paper size is the large format copy shop file?

In the pattern that you receive, you can find this information in “README.txt”. You can also open the PDF in Adobe Reader and hover your mouse over the page. The dimensions of the page will be located in small print on the lower left hand corner of the screen.

Are your patterns layered?

No, I currently do not have layered patterns. However, I provide a Map+Key on most of my patterns which tell you the pages to print for each view.

Where are the sewing instructions?

They are included in a separate pdf file, but you won’t be able to view them unless you first download the zip file onto your desktop computer and double click to extract the files. It is also recommended to open the pdf files in the latest version of Adobe Reader . 

What size do I pick if I have a larger waist size than hip size, and can I grade between sizes?

Please see my tutorial for grading between sizes for pants with no side seams (or straight side seams) in my journal.

What height and cup size are your patterns drafted for?

The sample is drafted for someone 5’5” tall with a B/C cup size (see journal for instructions on full bust adjustments). I provide detailed garment measurements, so if you are ever unsure, always check the garment measurements that are provided for each pattern. 

What kind of interfacing should I use?

For most garments a basic light to medium weight fusible interfacing will work, such as “Pellon P44F JAS” fusible interfacing. This is what I use for waistbands and fly facings as well.