Import-Export

Can I export my patterns?

PatternMaker has its own proprietary file format, but it can also import/export files in DXF 9 (AutoCAD tm), a universally recognized format commonly used with cutting machines and other CAD programs.

Can I import my patterns from/to other programs using the DXF format?

PatternMaker has its own proprietary file format, but PatternMaker Professional Studio and higher can also import/export files in AutoCAD™ DXF 9 format. DXF is a universally recognized format commonly used with other CAD programs. PatternMaker currently does not support DXF AAMA or DXF ASTM which is used by cutting machines. To convert between different AutoCAD™ DXF versions you can use the excellent inexpensive program called “DeltaCAD” (www.deltacad.com).

How can I import a file that is not in DXF format?

There are several ways to get patterns into PatternMaker. Scanners don’t work directly with PatternMaker, but digitizing tablets do. Another option is to use CAD digitizing, but in order to do that you will need the PatternMaker Grading Studio or PatternMaker Marker Studio.

Can I use PatternMaker to produce design sketches?

You can do simple line drawings with PatternMaker, but that’s all. You’ll need a drawing or painting program to do sketches.

Can I take pictures from magazines and turn them into patterns?

If you’re a skilled pattern maker, you can do this about the same way you would via pencil and paper. PatternMaker will not do this sort of thing automatically. It is not a substitute for pattern making skill.

Can I scan existing patterns into the computer?

Scanners don’t work directly with PatternMaker, but digitizing tablets do. You’ll need the PatternMaker Grading Studio or PatternMaker Marker Studio for that feature. If you’re digitizing small-scale printed patterns, you can scale them up once they’re in PatternMaker. If you have a closet full of slopers, keeping them on the computer will save you a lot of space.

It is possible to scan a line drawing and convert it to a CAD format and then import the file into PatternMaker Professional Studio. It is also possible to use the scanned image as a background image and then trace the image in PatternMaker Professional Studio.

Can I scan existing patterns from pictures in magazines and turn them into patterns?

Scanners are not smart. But you can scan a pattern from paper, and set the resulting image as the background image in PatternMaker. Then “trace” it with the mouse. For more see this tracing a background.