How to Use a PDF Sewing Pattern
Learn how to print, piece together and cut out a digital PDF sewing pattern.
In this class we'll walk through cutting out and piecing together a PDF pattern. You'll then use the pattern to cut out a test project at the end.
We will only be reviewing how to use a PDF pattern. To learn more about reading patterns overall, check out the How to Read a Pattern class. If you like, you can sign up for both of these classes and combine them into one, 3-hour class.
What You'll Learn
- Resources for digital, PDF sewing patterns
- How to print correctly to scale
- How to properly assemble all of the pattern pieces
- How to cut out the pattern for your size
Prerequisites
This class is for the absolute beginner with no experience or someone who wants a refresher on the tools or techniques shown in this class.
Tools & Supplies
- You'll receive two small patterns to print that we'll assemble together in the class
- Scissors for cutting paper (Don't use the same scissors you use to cut fabric!)
- Glue stick or clear tape
- 2 fat quarters (18" x 22") of scrap fabric
Remember to print the patterns before the class.
Learning Options
Private Class
Live, instructor-led private sewing class scheduled at a time that is best for you.
Number of StudentsSee discounted price for multiple students
Online
Live Video Chat
Public Class
To provide a personalized experience and accommodate busy schedules I primarily teach private sewing classes and this class does not currently have any public dates available, but you can request it as a private sewing class.
See registration details below.
Duration

Discounts

Instructor-led Private Classes/Lessons
Discounts are available when you sign-up multiple people for private classes or personalized lessons so get friends or family members together too. Select the number of students above to see the discounted price per person.
Online Sewing Classes
Choose from options for live, instructor-led sewing lessons over video chat or some recorded classes that are available to watch on-demand when you want.
Live Instructor-led
I developed a unique virtual learning experience to make it as close as possible to being in person. I make the same project along with you, answer your questions, and show you the actions from multiple cameras as I personally guide you step by step.
Recorded On-demand Video
Some classes are available to enroll in to watch online and learn at your own pace. The techniques and projects shown are similar to the live classes. Follow along from your computer or mobile device when you want and return to pick up where you left off.
Learn more about my online learning options or register below for live, instructor led.
About the Instructor

Vanessa has been teaching children and adults for over 20 years and offers beginner to advanced sewing lessons to students locally and virtually across the country. She's also an instructor in the Fashion Design Program at Austin Community College and is a member of the Fashion Design Advisory Committee. Previously, Vanessa was an instructor at The Stitch Lab where she taught intro and specialty sewing classes, gave private lessons, hosted parties, and ran summer camps.
Vanessa is a full-time designer and seamstress working with clients on a wide variety of custom sewing and product development projects for fashion, wearable tech, decor, accessories and soft goods that keep her current with the latest sewing trends and technologies. She is also a machine service technician and has detailed knowledge of a wide range of sewing machines that enables her to personalize sewing lessons for the types of machines students are using.
Register
New registrations for instructor-led classes are temporarily closed
Thanks for your interest in taking sewing classes with me! Due to extremely high demand I am currently not available to take on more students. When open spots become available I will re-open registration. If you would like to be notified when registration is available please subscribe to the Ronkita Design newsletter.