Frequently Asked Questions
peoplespatterns.com
A made-to-measure pattern is drafted to your exact body measurements, not a standard size. You enter your measurements once, and we generate a pattern that accounts for your actual waist, hip, inseam, chest, and other dimensions. The result fits your body, not a size chart.
Most sewing patterns are drafted for a statistical average body in standard sizes (XS, S, M, L, XL). If your measurements don't match that average (and most people's don't), you have to make alterations before the pattern fits. Our patterns skip that step entirely. Every pattern is generated fresh from your measurements.
Patterns are generated using parametric drafting formulas - the same math taught in pattern-making courses. For most body proportions, the fit will be very close out of the box. We always recommend cutting a muslin (test garment in cheap fabric) first. This is standard practice even with professionally drafted patterns. If something is off, update your measurements and re-generate for free.
Every pattern includes: print-ready tiled PDF (US Letter and A4), full materials list with fabric type and yardage, stitch and notions guide, step-by-step numbered construction instructions, and a scale verification page. All drafted to your exact measurements.
Each pattern includes a complete materials list, fabric recommendations, stitch settings, and numbered construction steps written in plain language with sewing terms explained inline. Beginner-friendly patterns are marked. We recommend starting with the T-Shirt or A-Line Skirt if you're new to garment sewing.
After purchase, you download a tiled PDF sized to standard printer paper (US Letter, A4, or Tabloid). Print at 100% scale; never "fit to page." Each page includes a 2x2 inch verification square to confirm your print is the right scale, plus registration crosshairs to align the pages when taping them together. Full assembly instructions are included on page 2 of every PDF.
Each tile page has scissors cut lines on the edges and crosshair alignment marks. Cut along the scissors line on the incoming tile, align the crosshairs with the adjacent tile, and tape from the back. A numbered tile map is included showing how the pages fit together. Full instructions are on page 2 of every PDF.
US Letter (8.5×11″) works for most home printers in the US. A4 works for most international printers. Tabloid (11×17″) reduces the number of pages significantly if your printer supports it. A0 prints on a single large sheet at any copy shop, or use it as a projector file - no taping required.
Yes. The PDF works at any print shop. For US Letter or A4 tiled patterns, any standard printer works. For A0 single-sheet output, most FedEx Office and Staples locations can print large format for a few dollars per sheet. The same A0 file also works with pattern projectors.
Fit issues are usually caused by measurement errors. We recommend measuring twice before generating your pattern. If something doesn't fit after sewing a muslin, update your measurements in your profile and re-download. Re-generation is included with every purchase at no extra charge. Reply to your purchase confirmation email and we will help troubleshoot.
Yes. Create a free account and your measurements are saved to your profile. You can create multiple named profiles, useful if you sew for family members or clients.
Yes, any time, from your account under My Patterns. Your purchase is permanent and includes unlimited re-downloads.
If you are unsatisfied with a pattern within 30 days and have not downloaded it, contact us for a full refund. Because patterns are generated to your specific measurements, we cannot offer refunds after a pattern has been downloaded. If you experience a technical issue preventing download, contact us and we will resolve it.
Every pattern includes a curated fabric recommendations list with weight ranges, stretch requirements, and sewing notes. The materials page also includes specific needle type, thread weight, and stitch settings for each recommended fabric.
Yes. Generating and viewing patterns is completely free - no account needed. When you're ready to download a print-ready PDF, create a free account and your first pattern download is on us. No credit card required.
A free account gives you 1 free pattern download, saved measurement profiles for yourself and others you sew for, fit feedback tracking, and pattern history. No credit card needed to sign up.
Yes. We offer two membership tiers. Club ($12/month or $120/year) includes 1 pattern credit per month, saved profiles, and member pricing on additional patterns. Wardrobe ($24/month or $240/year) includes 3 credits per month, early access to new patterns, and premium exports. You can also buy individual patterns without a subscription.
Yes. Our patterns are generated from your actual measurements with no upper size limit. Enter your measurements and the pattern drafts to fit your body exactly. There is no size chart and no extra charge for larger sizes.
Not yet - kids patterns are on our roadmap. The engine works with any body measurements, so kids sizing is a matter of adding age-appropriate ease and proportion defaults. Sign up for our newsletter to be notified when kids patterns launch.
Personal use is included with every purchase. Commercial licenses for designers, tailors, and small labels start at $49/pattern. Contact hello@peoplespatterns.com for details.
Still have a question? Email us at hello@peoplespatterns.com. We read every one.