How do I organize my PDF sewing patterns (A4, A0 and projector files) so I can find them again?
Last updated: 8 October 2026
Keep every file from one pattern together, and name each file for what it is. A common setup is one folder for all patterns, one folder per designer inside it, and one folder per pattern inside that. Put the instructions, the print at home file, the A0 copy shop file and the projector file in the pattern's folder.
Know which file is which
One purchase often comes with several files. The Green Pepper describes the usual set:
- Print at home: tiled pages for Letter or A4 paper that you tape together.
- A0 copy shop: one large sheet for a print shop. Some designers also include a 36 inch version.
- Projector: a file for projecting the pattern onto your cutting table.
- Instructions: the step-by-step sewing guide.
https://thegreenpepper.com/blogs/news/your-guide-to-using-pdf-sewing-patterns
Not every designer includes every file. Seamwork, for example, says some of its patterns include projector files. https://help.seamwork.com/hc/en-us/articles/360004181994-How-to-download-and-print-PDF-patterns
A folder system that works
Sarah Kirsten describes the structure above: a patterns folder, a folder per pattern maker, a folder per pattern, and all the PDFs for that pattern inside. She also suggests filing a pattern right after you buy it, instead of leaving it in downloads. https://sarkirsten.com/blog/2020/5/17/how-to-organize-and-keep-track-of-your-pdf-patterns
If you prefer to browse by garment, Sussex Seamstress suggests folders such as dresses, skirts and tops, and using your computer's search to find a pattern by name. https://www.sussexseamstress.com/sewing-tips-blog/how-to-organise-and-search-pdf-sewing-patterns
Two habits help:
- Put the file type in the file name, such as "Pattern name A0.pdf".
- Keep notes in a spreadsheet or a notes app: sizes you own, printed or not, and which fabric you plan to use.
The weak point is that folders cannot track whether you have printed, traced or cut a pattern, or which fabric you own for it.
How Selvage does it
Selvage is a sewing library app for fabric, patterns, notions and projects. Choose "Import pattern" and pick PDF or ZIP files. Selvage opens ZIPs, including ZIPs inside ZIPs, and skips empty files and the hidden files macOS adds.
It guesses each file's kind from the file or folder name: projector, A0 or copy shop, A4 or letter, or instructions. If it cannot tell, it marks the file unknown. You can set each file to Instructions, Print at home, A0 copy shop or Projector. Selvage makes a first page thumbnail for each file, and opens files in your device's own PDF viewer.
Selvage does not read the PDF for you. You type the designer, pattern number, sizes you own and the yardage chart (view, size, fabric width and length). Each pattern also has a print status: Unprinted, Printed, Traced or Cut.
With a yardage chart entered, "Fits from your stash" lists the fabrics you own with enough free cloth for the view and size you pick, judged against each fabric's width.
Selvage stores the patterns you add. It does not supply a collection of patterns. It has no account, and your imported files are stored locally. Crash and performance diagnostics are on by default and can be turned off in Settings.
Selvage is submitted to Google Play and the App Store (iPhone and iPad) and is waiting for review.
Get Selvage
Related questions
- Should I delete the ZIP after I extract it?
- Sarah Kirsten says you can. If you want a safe copy, keep it until you have checked every file opens.
- Does Selvage include patterns?
- No. You add your own files.
- Can I mark which patterns I have printed?
- Yes. Set the print status on each pattern.
Selvage is a Trueframe Digital app. No account, and your records stay on your device unless you back up or export them. See the Selvage page for screenshots, the full feature list, prices and privacy details.