Projectors
Replacing paper patterns with a projected image of the pattern.
What is the goal of using a projector for digital sewing patterns?
Projectors for Sewing Facebook Group
What is an amazing resource to learn about everything projector related?
Created by Missy Pore just a few years ago, the group has extensive resource guides and a community over 65K members!
An email from a pattern maker with a download link for pattern files.
What you get when you purchase a pdf pattern?
Instead of a physical item, you purchase a digital file. Often they will come with multiple files and different file options for printing or projecting.
What's your favorite part of the sewing process?
Wow! how fun!
I love serging more than anything :)
How level is the cutting table?
See what the level says!
$100-$150
Average cost of projector from Ebay
HDMI Cord or Wifi
What are common ways to connect a computer to a projector.
A pretty standard connector for video is called an HDMI cord. Some computers may need an adapter to connect.
Newer models of projectors may be able to connect over Wifi, which could be especially useful for ceiling mounted projectors
Portable Document File
What PDF stands for!
Basically its a file type that should be able to be opened across computer types
What do you dislike most about printed patterns?
What is everything you said!
Anything else to add?
How do you level the projector mount?
Adjust the elevator bolt feet!
The measurement from the lens of the projector to the screen or projection surface
What is the throw?
The shorter the throw, the less distance needed to get a bigger sized image!
Aka Ultra Short Throw (UST) can sit right on the table!
The process of achieving correct scale
What is calibration!
A0 or Print Shop files
What are larger sized files designed for printing?
These work great if a pattern doesn't come with a projector file because they to have all or most of the pattern pieces assembled together.
*Tip: If a A0 or copy shop file doesn't have layers, try looking at the print at home tiled file and if it does have layers then use the open sourced software PDF Stitcher created by Charlotte Curtis to easily create one file!
What's a question you have about using projectors for sewing?
You're probably not the first person to wonder that!
How do you only see the pattern size you want?
Turn off the layer for all other sizes!
62 inches
The minimum distance needed between a table and ceiling for a regular throw projector to get a reasonable pattern size.
Ulta short throw projectors are a great option if you don't have enough vertical space or can't install anything permanently on the ceiling or wall.
Squares and Rectangle grid
What is used for calibrating the correct zoom and tilt
-Adding space around pattern pieces
-Adding thickness to lines
-Increasing the font size
-Making sure all the pattern pieces are on page
What are things to do to create a better projector file in programs like PDF stitcher or Inkscape
Are there ways that ready to use patterns don't meet your needs?
(ex. you always have to shorten pants or grade the waist)
Wow, I bet you're not alone in that!
I've struggled with patterns being too tight or too big on my shoulders.
How do you change the tilt of the image from the projector?
Try out keystoning!
720p
What is the MINIMUM *Native* resolution for sewing projectors?
When looking at specs, its usually the second number represented in a resolution like 1024x768, 1280x720, 1280x800.
This ensures correct size and aspect ratio of the projected image.
Calibration zoom
What is the percent to set your zoom setting in adobe.
Use the squares and rectangle calibration tool to determine the zoom for the accurate scale/size!
TIP! Always recheck your zoom percentage every time you set up the projector and double check the zoom when you open the pattern file!
Changing the length or shape of a pattern line in a program like Inkscape
What is pattern adjustments.
You can edit pattern files digitally or keep it simple. Cut different lengths directly on the fabric or try tracing patterns onto paper.
What's the most intimidating part of using patterns?
What is exactly what you said!
But like I don't really know how to use all the editing programs...
How do you change the shape of a pattern piece in Inkscape?
Try moving a line path!