Pattern Layout (Generate Menu)
Modes: S U

Keyboard Shortcut! press '7' on the keyboard


 
The Pattern Layout command opens a window that allows you to plan a pattern layout in order to calculate how much yardage to purchase for your project. The window looks and behaves like the Pixel-per-Stitch Graphics window, but it differs in that you can actually drag and move pieces around. Each piece is labelled and a fabric width by height calculation is shown at the bottom of the window.
 
To prep the pattern:

  1. Ensure that you have all additions (extensions, hems, facings, etc.,) on your pattern.
  2. Ensure that you have seam allowances turned on (although Designer will let you create a layout without seam allowances).
  3. Ensure that you have all pieces displayed in the proper manner (independent vs. separate).
     


To plan a pattern layout:

  1. On the Generate menu, click on Pattern Layout.
    Decide on a fabric width that you want to use and determine if you want to fold the fabric
  2. in half so that you may cut two layers at once.
  3. Determine which (if any) pieces will need to be cut on the fold and remember which pieces these are when you arrange them in the next step.
  4. Drag the pattern pieces around in the window until you see the width of the fabric become equal to or slightly less than your fabric width. Ensure that pattern pieces that are to be cut on the fold are placed at the edge.
  5. Flip and rotate the pieces as necessary to create an efficient pattern layout. Always cross-check that you have not exceeded the predetermined fabric width. Don't worry if the pattern labels overlap the pattern pieces in this window. The goal is to create an efficient pattern layout on your fabric.
  6. Watch the width measurement as you move pieces around to ensure that it doesn't exceed the width of your fabric.
  7. When your layout is complete, you can record the finished width and length. You may also print the layout diagram for later reference. The grid lines, if printed on the pattern, will serve as straight of grain markings for pattern layout on the fabric.
  8. Remember to purchase slightly more fabric as a safety precaution.