copy patterns into patternmaker

Copy Sewing Patterns into PatternMaker 

Exact-Size Method

Many sewists and pattern makers have PDF or paper sewing patterns they want inside PatternMaker so they can edit, true, reuse, and print them like native PatternMaker patterns.

One reliable way to do this is by using a bitmap image as a background and tracing the pattern using PatternMaker’s drawing tools. When done correctly, this method produces accurate, editable patterns.

This post explains the bitmap background method step by step, starting with the most important rule: measure first.

Step 1: Measure the Pattern Before Importing

Before importing anything into PatternMaker, measure the original pattern.

Measure directly from:

  • the printed PDF
  • the paper pattern
  • or the photographed image

Take clear, reliable measurements such as:

  • bust width
  • waist width
  • hip width
  • center front or center back length
  • armhole depth
  • test square (if present)

Take at least one horizontal and one vertical measurement.
These will be used later to scale the pattern accurately.

Professional rule: Measure first. Import later.

Step 2: Take a Picture and Save as a Bitmap

If the pattern is on paper:

  • take a clear photo from directly above
  • ensure good lighting
  • avoid perspective distortion

Save the image as:

  • BMP
  • Resize to fit window

Ensure the pattern lies flat and is not skewed.

Step 3: Load the Bitmap as a Background Image

In PatternMaker:

  1. Go to Settings → Configure
  2. Select Background image
  3. Load the bitmap file

You may adjust the view so the full image is visible in the workspace.
This is only for positioning and visibility, not for sizing.

Do not rely on visual size.
Accuracy comes later using measurements.

Step 4: Trace the Pattern Using the POLY Tool

With the bitmap visible:

  • Select POLY (polygon tool)
  • Trace directly over the sewing lines
  • Click point-by-point
  • Right-click to complete each piece

Helpful tools:

  • Zoom for precision
  • Snap to Endpoint (Ctrl + F3)
  • SET LINE to change trace color

If the pattern was captured in sections:

  • trace each section separately
  • use MOVE to align
  • use JOIN to connect pieces

Step 5: Scale the Traced Pattern to Exact Size

Use the measurements taken earlier.

  1. Select SCALE from the tool bar.
  2. Select the traced pattern. Right click.
  3. Type:
    • X = size to measure (horizontal) or
    • Y = size to measure (vertical)
  4. Click the two reference points
  5. Enter the real measurement

The pattern scales proportionally back to true size.

scale tool

Step 6: Finish Like a Real Pattern

Add production details:

  • seam allowance
  • grainlines
  • notches
  • labels
  • drill holes

Save as a PatternMaker pattern file.

When to Use This Method

This method is ideal when:

  • you want full control over pattern shape
  • the image does not convert cleanly to DXF
  • you plan to refine or redesign the pattern