FAQs
Digital Downloads
How do I download my PDF pattern purchase? Moments after completing the purchase of a PDF Pattern, you will receive an email via SendOwl (the digital products app used for Pattern Scout PDF purchases) with a link to download the PDF pattern and accompanying files. If you do not receive the email with your download link, check your junk folders. If you still did not find the link, please reply to the order confirmation email, and I will be in touch shortly with your file download information.
I clicked the link in the email to download my pattern and it didn’t work! Sometimes this happens if there was an update made to the digital file and the new link was published while you were completing your transaction or before you had a chance to download your purchase. Send an email to casey@patternscoutstudio.com if you encounter this, and a refreshed download link will be sent to you.
How do I print and use my digital files? You have two options for printing your files: at home on US Letter or A4 size paper, or by printing the copyshop file with your local or online printer of choice. If printing at home, you will need to tape the pattern piece sheets together using the layout guide in the pattern instructions and line up the marks on the edges of each sheet. The copyshop file is one large sheet of paper with all the pattern pieces that does not require assembly and is sized to standard printing dimensions (check your pattern instructions for sheet size information). Whether printing at home or at a copyshop, your files should be printed at zero scaling, or 100% scale. And make sure to measure the test square provided on your pattern to ensure proper scale.
What is a “copyshop” and where do I find one to print my PDF pattern? A copyshop is a store or business that prints documents and marketing materials for its customers, often for business purposes. You can usually find local businesses in your area that provide this service and print on large printers called “plotters”. Many chain office supply stores and some shipping services (Office Max, Staples, FedEx, for example) can also print large format files. And there are great online options for printing if you don’t have a local option.
Pattern Scout copyshop files can be printed on beautiful 18 lb translucent paper with Brooklyn Motif Printing, a US-based, women-owned company servicing the home sewist community with their pdf pattern printing services. Click here to learn more!
PDF Plotting is another site that offers affordable printing in the U.S. (less than $2 per print in some cases) and quick shipping.
Pattern Scout Patterns are also sold via The Fold Line, which offers PDF printing for copyshop files for UK customers.
You may also try googling “pdf printing” to see what else pops up!
Refunds / Exchanges
Can I get a refund or exchange? Due to the nature of selling digital files, I can not offer a refund or exchange on PDF pattern purchases.
Pattern Testing
What is pattern testing? Before the launch of each pattern, I release it to a small group of sewists that work through the pattern to test the garment fit and make sure the instructions are clear. Each tester receives a monetary stipend to help offset the cost of materials. I occasionally put out a call for testers, but not for every pattern. Be sure to join the email list to be notified when the pattern testing application is open.
Why should I test for you and sacrifice my time and fabric? Well, you shouldn’t apply to test unless my patterns are something you really want to make. If you want to try a new pattern for free, you like the Pattern Scout style, and you enjoy being a part of the behind-the-scenes design process, apply! If it sounds like too much work and you think you might be frustrated with the process, then wait until the pattern is released to buy it (or win it…I host giveaways when I launch new patterns!).
What are you looking for in a pattern tester? I’m looking for a range of skill levels and body types for my pattern tests. I want to make sure that the instructions make sense for both beginner and advanced sewists and that the pattern will work for many body shapes and sizes. I do rely heavily on social media (or a blog/website if you have it) to see examples of past work that is related to the types of patterns I am creating, but your follower count is NOT a factor in selection. I just want to see that you enjoy sewing and can take clear photos of your projects (I like to see your finished garments on a real person, too). Beyond that, I am looking for individuals that really love to sew (did I already say that?) and will enjoy the process of going over all the details and providing great feedback.
Do you have a pattern tester application? Yes! I periodically have open calls for pattern testers, so be sure to sign up for the email list to be notified when the application is available.
Miscellaneous
Do you plan to offer paper patterns? The short answer: one day! For the time being Pattern Scout patterns are only available in PDF format. The biggest hurdle to offering paper patterns is upfront costs of printing, and since our patterns offer additional bust cup sizes, this makes printing even more expensive. But as this indie pattern company grows, offering paper patterns is definitely a priority for the future. So stay tuned!
Can I sell items made from Pattern Scout Patterns? You can only sell finished products made from my patterns if you purchase a seller’s license, and only if you make the products in your home-based/handmade business. Under no circumstances are you permitted to outsource the production of these products to a factory or other sewists for larger scale manufacturing. Please click here to contact me if you are interested in a seller’s license.
Can I teach a class using one of your patterns? I love that idea! If you are interested in teaching with my patterns, please get in touch for a group pattern price that includes multiple user licenses. Distributing the pattern to others from a single purchase is not allowed. Each pattern purchase is limited to one user.