Creating PDF Patterns: From Sketch to Sale

Learn to create, market and sell your own PDF sewing patterns

PLEASE NOTE: A COMPLETELY NEW PATTERN WORKSHOP EXPERIENCE IS COMING FOR THIS COURSE! ALL STUDENTS WHO HAVE ENROLLED OR ARE ENROLLING AFTER MARCH 1, 2020 WILL BE GRANTED FREE ACCESS TO THE UPDATED AND OVERHAULED NEW COURSE RELEASING AROUND SEPTEMBER 2020.

Join the hundreds of students who have learned to sketch, draft, modify, grade, tile and market their PDF sewing pattern designs in this comprehensive, online course.

Have you dreamed of creating your own PDF sewing patterns? How about starting your own business selling patterns from the comfort of your home?

For many years, the process of creating technically accurate and beautiful PDF sewing patterns was a best-kept secret of only a few well-known designers. But thanks to this course, you can now learn the tools to start your own PDF sewing pattern design business (or just design them for yourself and your family!).


"As a sewing pattern designer for the past 5 years, my biggest hope for this course was to speed up my overall workflow. My hopes and expectations have well been exceeded. Through professional videos and lessons, Lauren teaches many tips and tricks using Illustrator and InDesign that are unique to sewing pattern designers (her Southern accent is just the icing on the cake) – things that you won’t learn in any Adobe course or YouTube video. Certain aspects of pattern design that I previously found tedious and even annoying have become much less time consuming and even enjoyable thanks to Lauren. The value of this course is incredible for the investment, and I highly recommend it to both new and current designers!"

- Abby, Sew Much Ado

"The Pattern Workshop is perfect for any aspiring designer. Lauren condenses 2 years worth of college classes into her self-paced workshop. So if you don’t have time to go back to college but want to learn how to draft patterns and market them, then this class is for you. And if you went to college and already learned how to draft, this class will help you learn the digital aspect of pdf patterns and faster ways to grade. Take the plunge and invest in yourself! You’ll be happy you did!"

- Rachel, Golden Rippy

The course starts with an introduction to Adobe Illustrator and individual video tutorials on all the essential tools you’ll need to get started. Then, more advanced videos will show you exactly how to use your skills to digitally draft, modify, grade and tile your patterns. Next, you’ll learn to draw gorgeous technical illustrations for your pattern cover and instructions, and you’ll put it all together in InDesign to create an attractive, user-friendly layout.

Finally, you’ll learn to navigate the testing process, market your patterns, set up shop and create an affiliate program. You’ll even get lots of printable checklists, cheat sheets and templates to give you a jump-start on launching your pdf sewing pattern business.

Think you might want to have your patterns printed on paper in the future? The course includes a bonus lesson on how to make that happen, too!

Course Curriculum


  Getting Started
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  Size Matters
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  Digitizing Hand-Drafted Patterns
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  Adding & Subtracting Seam Allowances
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  Preparing Patterns for Printing
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  Tutorial Illustrations
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  Bonus Materials
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"I hesitated to enroll in Lauren’s class because I was used to another program, and I didn’t want to start again from the beginning. But one day, I decided to take the plunge, Oh my! What a wonderful jump that I’ve made! I started the course and I was unable to stop, literally. After 3 lessons, I knew it was worth it. Lauren explains every step in such a clever way. I was able to follow though my Adobe was completely in French. With this course, I’ve gained so much accuracy and speed, and my patterns are much better. I feel so confident that I am also digitalizing for others now. Thanks, Lauren, for having such a wonderful product."

- Mel, Filles à Maman

"After making pdf patterns for a couple years using a different drawing program, I decided it was time to make the switch to Illustrator. Lauren’s Pattern Workshop made the transition painless and even enjoyable. The best part of these classes is that they appeal to any level of experience. Beginners will learn everything they need to know to confidently make pdf patterns, and experienced users will learn new tips and tricks. I really can’t recommend Pattern Workshop highly enough!"

- Adrianna, Hey June Handmade

Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
The course starts now and never ends! It is a completely self-paced online course - you decide when you start and when you finish.
How long do I have access to the course?
You will have access to the course for one year after enrollment.
What if I am unhappy with the course?
We would never want you to be unhappy! If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, contact us within 5 calendar days of enrolling for a full refund.
What software do I need to complete the course?
You will need Adobe Illustrator and InDesign. Although the course material was developed using the CC version, anything from version 4 forward will work with nominal modification. Some students have also modified the instructions to work with InkScape.
Does the course include a set of standard measurements?
Yes! The course includes a full set of misses (women's), misses plus, men's, children's and infants' standard measurements.
Do I have to be online to access the material?
Unfortunately, yes. You will need an internet connection to access the material as the videos are not downloadable.
Can I view the course material on my phone or tablet?
Yes! The course is completely responsive and will work on any mobile device you choose. You can put your tablet or phone right next to your computer to view the material while you work on the computer, or review lessons on-the-go.
Is there a way to interact with the instructor and fellow students?
Yes! Enrolled students will be granted access to a secret Facebook group with about 500 former and current students eager to chat, provide feedback, answer questions and form partnerships. You can also email your instructor directly or comment on individual lessons if you run into a problem that can't be solved in the Facebook group.
Will I need anything in addition to the course and software?
Unless you are extremely well-versed in creating pattern blocks and know all the formulas for doing so in your head, you will need a pattern drafting textbook of your choice. The examples given in the course use a children's bodice block, but you may substitute whatever instructions/formulas you like to complete the exercises. Textbook suggestions are given in the course, and they range from about $20-80 on Amazon.

Your Instructor


Lauren Dahl
Lauren Dahl

Lauren Dahl is the Janome-sponsored sewist and designer behind Baste + Gather blog and sewing patterns. She has 15+ years of experience using and teaching Adobe products, and she teaches courses on digital pattern drafting on BurdaStyle.com and affiliated sites.

Lauren lives with her husband and three young children in Portland, Oregon, and loves to sew, knit and travel. Lauren also has a master’s degree in advertising management from the University of Denver and many years of experience in corporate branding and online marketing. She brings her students a wealth of information both on the technical and marketing sides of the business.



This course is closed for enrollment.