Frequently asked questions
Find help with your pattern downloads, the Pattern Vault, printing, and choosing your size.
Looking for patterns you bought on our previous website? Visit the Pattern Vault and sign in with the email address you used for those purchases.
Jump to: Pattern Vault · Pattern downloads · Printing and sizing · More help
Pattern Vault
What is the Pattern Vault?
The Pattern Vault is where you can download eligible patterns you bought on our previous website. It keeps those downloads accessible separately from your account on this shop.
How do I sign in?
Open the Pattern Vault, enter the email address you used for your previous purchases, and select Send my sign-in link. Open the link in your email to see your patterns. You don't need your old password.
The sign-in link works once and expires after one hour. If it expires, return to the Pattern Vault and request another link.
What if my sign-in email doesn't arrive?
Allow a few minutes, then check your Spam or Promotions folder. Make sure you entered the email address from your original order. If you still need help, contact help@patternsforpirates.com.
What if a pattern is missing or I used a different email address?
Check the email address on your original order, including an older address or the address connected to PayPal. If you used more than one address, your purchases might be associated with different addresses.
If a pattern is missing or you can't access the original email account, contact us with the pattern name and any order details you have. You don't need to buy it again to ask us for help.
Will my previous orders appear in my account on this shop?
Orders placed on our previous website don't appear in your account on this shop. Use the Pattern Vault for those pattern downloads. For paid patterns purchased from this shop, use the download link sent to you after payment.
Pattern downloads
Am I buying a finished garment or a paper pattern?
Our sewing patterns are digital PDF files. You download the files and use them to sew your own item. A pattern purchase doesn't include a finished garment or a printed pattern mailed to you.
How do I download a paid pattern from this shop?
After your payment is processed, you'll receive an email with your download link. Save the files to your device before opening them. If you don't see the email, check your Spam or Promotions folder, then contact us for help.
How do I get a free pattern?
Start on the Free Patterns page and choose your project. For a pattern with downloadable files, use the email form on its product page and confirm your signup when prompted. You don't need to go through checkout.
Use the private downloads link in your email to open your free-pattern library. That library also shows additional free patterns you request and confirm. Keep the link private. Some free projects are tutorials without a separate PDF; follow the instructions on the project page.
Which files are included with a pattern?
Check the product page's Included files section before choosing your pattern. Depending on the pattern, files can include print-at-home, A0 copy-shop, or projector formats. Available formats and size layers vary by pattern.
Printing and sizing
How do I print my pattern at the right size?
Download the print-at-home PDF and print at 100% scale or Actual size. Turn off options such as Fit to page. Print the page with the test square first and measure it before printing the rest.
Follow your pattern's printing and assembly instructions. Our first-time user guide walks you through getting started.
Can I print only the sizes I need?
If your PDF includes size layers, you can select the sizes you want to print. For reliable access to size layers, open the downloaded PDF in the free Adobe Acrobat Reader desktop app. Layer support varies in other PDF viewers.
Read our guide to printing with layers for the steps.
How do I choose my size?
Take your body measurements and compare them with the size chart for the pattern you're making. Use the pattern's measurements and fitting guidance instead of your usual ready-to-wear size.
Start with How to measure yourself, then check the product page's sizing and fabric information.
Can I use a copy shop or a projector?
Yes, when that format is included with your pattern. Use the A0 file for copy-shop printing and the projector file for projecting your pattern. Check Included files on the product page first.
Our guides cover A0 copy-shop printing and getting started with a sewing projector.
More help
Where can I find sewing help?
Explore our Sewing 101 guides and Video tutorials. Product pages also link to related tutorials when they're available.
How do I contact Patterns for Pirates?
Use our contact form or email help@patternsforpirates.com. For download or order questions, include the pattern name, the email address used for the order, and your order number if you have it. Never send your password or private download link.