Import the outlines
Open closed pattern outlines as SVG or DXF. Set quantities and mark pieces that need a mirrored partner.
Fabric planning for sewing projects
Plan your fabric from the pieces you have.
PatternNest arranges SVG and DXF pattern outlines across your fabric width and calculates the length used by the layout. Set grainline rules, one-way placement and mirrored pairs, then review the cutting plan in your browser.
Plan and export up to 10 fabric pieces for free, counting copies and mirrored pieces; larger projects require a license.
A sample fabric layout in the PatternNest app.
From pattern outlines to a fabric plan
Choose the fabric rules
Enter fabric width and cutting distance. Allow free rotation, follow the grainline or keep a piece facing one way.
Read the layout
Review placement and the calculated fabric length. Export the layout as PDF or SVG, or check whether it fits a length you already have.
Work with the fabric's direction
Grainline and one-way placement
Allow 0° and 180° for grainline placement, or only 0° for directional prints and fabrics with nap. Choose the rule for each piece.
Mirrored pairs
Add a piece and its mirror image with the pair setting. The plan lays them out on a single fabric layer.
Fabric length and cutting space
Calculate the length used by the arranged pieces or test a fixed fabric length. Set the space between pieces to suit how you cut.
Use your own pattern for cutting and marking
PatternNest reads closed SVG and DXF outlines, not PDF patterns. It doesn't draft, grade or fit patterns, add seam allowance or reproduce internal labels and markings. Layouts use a single fabric layer; unfold cut-on-fold pieces in your pattern software first. The calculated length describes the generated layout, not a guarantee of minimum yardage or an allowance for shrinkage and print matching.
Start with your own file.
Try the free version. A license extends it for larger jobs.
Free
0 €
- Plan and export up to 10 fabric pieces
- Copies and mirrored pieces count
- Fabric length calculation
- Grainline, one-way placement and pairs
PatternNest
14 €
One-time purchase for version 1
- Calculate, export and print larger projects
- The same fabric planning tools
- Offline license key
- All v1 updates included
VAT or sales tax may apply depending on your country. Gumroad shows the final total at checkout.
Before your first project.
Can I import a PDF sewing pattern?
No. PatternNest needs closed outlines in SVG or DXF. Prepare the outlines for your chosen size in a vector or pattern editor first. PDF is an export format for the resulting layout, not an import format.
Does it include seam allowance and markings?
It uses the outlines you supply, including any seam allowance already drawn into them. It doesn't add or remove allowance. The exported layout doesn't reproduce internal notches, grainline arrows or labels, so keep your original pattern for cutting and marking.
Can I plan a folded fabric layout?
The app plans on a single layer. Expand cut-on-fold pieces into their full, unfolded outlines in your pattern software before importing. A mirrored pair creates two separate fabric pieces.
How does the free limit work?
Count fabric pieces, including copies; a mirrored pair counts as two. Up to 10 pieces, layout calculation, export and print are free. Above that, calculating a new layout and exporting require a license.
Is this an offline app with a one-time license?
Yes. Once cached, layout calculation and export run offline in your browser, and patterns aren't uploaded for processing. The full license covers v1 and v1 updates without a subscription. The checkout shows any applicable taxes in the total.
Read up and get ready.
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