PatternMaker

PatternMaker is Windows CAD software for viewing, creating, editing, and grading two-dimensional garment patterns. Pattern macros can generate patterns from body measurements and style selections, while Grading Studio creates graded patterns and lets users save and reuse grading data. Basic Viewer opens, views, and prints pre-made patterns and includes three custom-fit patterns; it can print full-size patterns on Windows-compatible printers or plotters with alignment marks for multi-page output. Professional Studio can save files as .dxf, and the FAQ says the software supports AutoCAD DXF as well as its own format, which cutting-machine software cannot read. The maker describes versions for home sewers, professional pattern makers, and designers. Basic Viewer is free at no cost. Listed one-time prices include Deluxe Editor at $110, Professional Studio at $420, MacroGenerator at $450, and Grading Studio at $1,250. A 30-day trial applies only to the CAD tools programs; free patterns can remain on the user's computer indefinitely. PatternMaker is strictly 2-D and is not intended for 3-D fitting or draping.

PatternMaker focuses on 2D garment pattern work, with separate tools for viewing, drafting, editing, macros, and grading. Its Windows-only availability and lack of 3D fitting or draping matter if those are requirements.

PatternMaker suits home sewers, professional pattern makers, or designers focused on 2D drafting and size grading. It may also suit Windows users who need DXF export or full-size pattern printing.

PatternMaker is garment-pattern CAD for home sewers, pattern makers, and designers working with 2D patterns. It suits people who need to print or develop patterns more than those looking for a broader apparel-design workspace. Its tiered tools cover the path from a free viewer to drafting and grading, but the more capable editions carry substantial one-time costs.

Overview

PatternMaker concentrates on garment patterns: it can view, generate, edit, draft, and grade them. That narrow focus makes it a sensible option when pattern work is the main task, rather than one component of a larger textile-design or 3D garment workflow. The maker offers versions for home sewers, professional pattern makers, and designers.

The software began in 1992 as a tool for a drama department designing clothes and adapting designs for different sizes. Its long-running emphasis on pattern construction and size adaptation remains clear in the separate tools for drafting, macros, and grading.

Key features

Pattern creation and grading

Pattern macros generate patterns from body measurements and style selections, giving users a route to custom-fit patterns without drafting every piece from scratch. MacroGenerator is an add-on rather than a standalone drafting tier: it works with Deluxe, Professional, or Grading versions. Professional Studio is the relevant choice for drafting patterns from scratch. Grading Studio can generate graded patterns and save grading data for reuse, which matters to makers producing or maintaining patterns across sizes.

Files and printing

PatternMaker supports AutoCAD DXF, and Professional Studio can save files as .dxf. That export option is important for workflows that need a DXF file; the free viewer is limited to opening, viewing, and printing premade patterns. The maker also cautions that its proprietary format cannot be read by cutting-machine software, so buyers should confirm the format they need before committing.

Basic Viewer prints full-size patterns on Windows-compatible printers or plotters and adds alignment marks for multi-page printouts. That makes the free tier useful for getting premade patterns onto paper, even without editing tools.

Scope and support

This is strictly 2D CAD, not software for 3D fitting or draping, and it does not include textile-design tools. The product pages offer Dutch, English, and German language options. The support center is a place to get help with downloads, ask questions, report problems, and connect with other users.

Pricing

The lineup ranges from a free viewer to one-time paid editions. Basic Viewer costs nothing and includes three custom-fit patterns. It is the right starting point for viewing and printing premade work, but not for editing or drafting.

Deluxe Editor costs $110, paid once and adds editing to Basic Viewer. It fits users who need to modify existing patterns but do not need to draft from scratch. Professional Studio costs $420, paid once and adds scratch drafting, making it the more relevant tier for pattern makers building designs themselves. Grading Studio costs $1,250, paid once and combines viewing, editing, development, and pattern grading; it is aimed at users whose work depends on those broader pattern-development and grading tasks.

MacroGenerator costs $450, paid once and creates custom-fit pattern macros. It works with Deluxe, Professional, or Grading versions, so it is an additional purchase for a compatible edition, not a substitute for one. A 30-day trial applies only to the CAD tools programs; free patterns can remain on a user's computer indefinitely. The software is not returnable once unlock codes have been issued, so buyers should settle on the appropriate edition before purchasing.

Platforms

PatternMaker is available for Windows. Its full-size printing support is for Windows-compatible printers and plotters, which keeps the workflow within that platform rather than across desktop operating systems.

Who it's for

Choose PatternMaker if garment patterns are the core of the job and the needed level is clear: print premade patterns for free, edit them with Deluxe, draft with Professional, or grade with Grading Studio. It is less suitable for users who need cross-platform access, textile-design tools, or 3D garment fitting and draping.

Pros and cons

Pros

• A useful free entry point: Basic Viewer opens, views, and prints premade patterns, and includes three custom-fit patterns.
• Tools map to distinct pattern tasks: Separate editions address editing, scratch drafting, macro creation, and grading, including reusable grading data in Grading Studio.
• DXF support: AutoCAD DXF compatibility and Professional Studio export can support workflows that require that format.
• Full-size printing: Alignment marks help users assemble multi-page patterns printed on compatible Windows printers or plotters.

Cons

• Windows only: Users on other desktop platforms need another option.
• No 3D fitting or textile design: PatternMaker stays within 2D garment-pattern work, so it cannot serve those broader design needs.
• Higher tiers require significant upfront payment: Professional Studio is $420, paid once and Grading Studio is $1,250, paid once.
• Proprietary files have a workflow caveat: The maker says cutting-machine software cannot read that format; confirm DXF requirements before relying on export.

Alternatives

For a free, open-source option across Linux, macOS, and Windows, Seamly2D is a straightforward alternative. Valentina also supports those three platforms and has a free option, though its free plan does not include current binaries, a manual, or developer support.

If a browser-based workflow is preferable, garment.dev has a free plan with caps including two patterns and one tech pack. For a tool with a free plan and a free trial on macOS and Windows, Style3D Studio is another option; its free plan is limited to non-commercial use and 30 downloadable assets per week.

Browzwear VStitcher is worth considering if its paid plan structure better fits the intended use. Gemini Creative STUDIO is a paid alternative for readers considering another fashion-design tool. Futura Next and Gerber AccuMark are also alternatives for Windows users. Browse the broader Fashion Design Software category to compare more options.

Verdict

PatternMaker is best for Windows users whose work centers on 2D garment patterns and who want to choose a tier specific to viewing, editing, drafting, macros, or grading. Its strongest reason to choose it is that focused set of pattern tools, including full-size printing and DXF support. Look elsewhere if 3D fitting, textile design, or a non-Windows platform is essential.