Replies

1. 
   habenro | Oct 29, 2005 05:25am | #1

   I have used Pattern Master Botique by Wildginger for many years.  It is very easy to use and produces great patterns from you own measurements. Go to their web site for a free download  demo of all their software options.  I think you will be impressed at all the options offered. http://www.wildginger.com

1. 
   bevchris | Oct 29, 2005 08:56pm | #2

   Thank you for your reply.  I will have a look at their website now. 

1. 
   Sunspot | Nov 07, 2005 05:38pm | #3

   HI. I know from several web searches that I am asking a lot, but I would really like to find pattern drafting software for a MAC. I have see the notation on Wild Ginger that it will run on Virtual PC, but I would like to avoid that option if possible or at least hear from a Mac owner who is doing it, because with that option I fear printing problems, not to mention having to buy virtual PC as well as the pattern drafting software itself.What else is out there software-wise for the Mac? I'm not into machine embroidery yet but I am still curious. Thanks,
   Barbara

1. 
   FitnessNut | Nov 07, 2005 06:33pm | #4

   I have a Mac (two, in fact) and use Fittingly Sew pattern drafting software. While it isn't as simple as some of the other programmes, it is more like the ones used professionally (I have worked as an industrial patternmaker) than any others available to the home sewist at a reasonable cost. There are no design templates for complete garments, but there are a few for designs that you could further develop. And for items like collars. You take measurements and the computer drafts a sloper, which you fit and adjust. You then have the option of having the sloper sized for increased ease, for a jacket for example. Then you work on the sloper to draft your pattern. It will add seam allowances for you, allow you to work out a layout (including with a grid for plaids etc.), and print it on a home printer. I have been very happy with the programme, though I have to admit that I haven't used it to near its full potential. Sometimes it just seems easier to pick up a pencil ;-)I bought Fittingly Sew way back in 1994 (!) and purchased the upgrade a number of years later. I have been very happy with it and its operation on my computer. They have a website, http://www.fittinglysew.com, but honestly it doesn't really give you all that much information. There is, however, a trial version you can download. And if you have any back issues of Threads, a number of pattern making software programmes were reviewed in issue 106, Fittingly Sew among them.If you'll forgive my long-windedness, after three frustrating years of trying to find embroidery software for my Mac, I have given in to the dark forces and bought a Windows laptop and the Bernina Artista software (which I only installed last evening). Trying to learn Windows after using Macs for 13 years is definitely NOT fun!!!

1. 
   Sunspot | Nov 08, 2005 12:56am | #5

   Dear Fitness Nut
   What great information you have given me!
   Thanks. One more question . . . what system are you running on Mac?
   9.x or 10.x? I am on 10.3.9 and assuming the Fittingly Sew would have to run in Classic?My neighbor has some PC embroidery software.I was trying to help her figure it out one day an it was very frustratiing and had dongles that weren't working etc. But I am a long way from that, since I only own a basic machine right now.Thanks again,Barbara

2. 
   FitnessNut | Nov 08, 2005 03:20am | #6

   Glad I could help. Do try the Fittingly Sew demo - it made all the difference in deciding whether the software was a purchase worth making for me.And you're right, Fittingly Sew runs in classic - system 9. I'm running 10.4.3, which I believe is the latest incarnation of system 10. This is a new iMac G5, but we updated the old computer so it is running the same operating system. I have the Fittingly Sew icon on the dock, which makes it easier for me to start up system 9....I just hate having to go searching for my programmes ;-) No compatibility issues to worry about.So far, so good with the embroidery software. I haven't even opened that manual yet, which is probably why its going well ;-) I'm working through a series of free online lessons for Bernina Artista that are excellent. (http://www.creativesewing.com for anyone interested.) I highly recommend this to your friend, if she can locate something that applies to her software.Sandy