Enlarge pattern with the "tiling tab" on printer

[Margie E.]

[/b]One way that I enlarge patterns that is fast and easy is to use the tiling capabilities of my printer. Most printers are able to do this. You will need computer software that allows you to enlarge your pattern. I use Corel Draw software and it works great. The first thing that I do is select my page layout size. I choose "custom" then type in the size that I want. That creates a page (lets pretend it's 20" x 20") and I bring in my picture to be enlarged. It brings it in as 8 1/2" x 11" and I enlarge it to fit my new page which is 20" x 20". In order to print it out I find the tiling choice on my printer. Some printers have it under layout and some under options. I check the tiling button and press print. It prints out in several pages and all you have to do is trim the page and tape them together. Before I print I also make sure that the lines are bolder and darker so they can easily be seen through a light table or tracing paper. If I put the pattern on a light table I tape it on upside down before I trace the designs onto fusible web or the paper of my choice for applique templates.[/b][/b]

[Margie E.]

How interesting. I guess I'm going to have to get to know my printer and printing software better! Thanks for the tip!

[Paula D.]

Thanks so much for taking the time to post this mini lesson. This is one I will certainly use.

[Lynn K.]

Can you "enlarge" the pattern by simply right-clicking 'copy image as' and then pasting it onto a word document and then just dragging the corners out? I've done that but don't know if it would give you the result you describe. :?: :?: :?:

[Margie E.]

Hi QuilterLynn, I have been on a long vacation with my grand children so just read your post. I have never used the word document software so I can't say for sure if it would work. Once you get the design enlarged to the size that you want there must be a button you can push to change the size of the layout page. Once you change the layout page to the size you want then you are ready to go to the printer and check the "tiling" box. Once you figure it out you can print your design as large as you would like. The printer will print it out on several pages and you just paste or tape them together. You must trim the border off of every other page before you tape them together. I printed out one as large as a headboard for my king size bed. Hope this helps.

[Margie E.]

Please be aware that some of the systems you are talking about also enlarge the 1/4 inch seam allowance. Once you have enlarged printed patterns be sure to remeasure the seam allowance. This is a lesson I learned the hard way years ago as a new quilter. Betty Ann

[Margie E.]

Hi Betty Ann, Your quilts are amazing!! I mostly use this technique for fabric painting and applique. I print out the larger pattern and then place it on the light table and trace the design onto fabric. I can see where the seam allowance would be enlarged right along with the design. I will probably draw on my own seam allowance after it is printed if I need a 1/4" seam allowance. I never thought about the seam allowance so thank you for the tip.