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PatternMaker is unique

The first thing to understand about PatternMaker is that our software is different from other similar products in a fundamental way: the patterns are not built into the program.

Program vs. Add-Ins

There are two components to using PatternMaker: the patterns themselves, and the PatternMaker ‘program’ that runs and prints them. The patterns are like plug-ins or extensions that we sell in various collections. (These plug-in patterns are also called “macros,” in case you hear us using that term. We also refer to them as the “custom-fit garments.”) The “program” comes in several different license levels, with different features, but the patterns are the same regardless of which license level you use.

The program contains all the commands and processes for producing and manipulating a pattern. An add-in pattern is an automated sequence of commands that tells the program to display the pattern options, take information from the user, and then draw the pattern on the screen. You can run the program without using any of the add-in patterns, but a pattern won’t run without the program.

Some add-in patterns are extensively customized, with dozens of possible style combinations to choose from and using a whole range of body measurements. Other add-ins are simple, and offer just a few styles, and use only standard measurements. The description of each collection and each individual pattern will describe its particular features.

Once you’ve purchased a pattern collection, it’s yours; there are no more costs associated with it. You can just choose to upgrade your PatternMaker license level if your needs change in the future.

Independent designers

The advantage of this unique program structure is that we can offer patterns from any number of designers, people who might have much better ideas than we do. Someone who specializes in formal wear might produce a collection of evening gowns; someone who specializes in costume design might produce a collection of historically-accurate costumes for Civil War reenactments or Renaissance Faires. Anyone who wishes to do so can produce their patterns in the PatternMaker format and make them available for sale to the public.

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