Hi All, Can anyone tell me how to prepare a CAD pattern to go to a print shop?? All the printers I have asked say they want the file as a PDF but my very advanced Grafis system does not save in PDF form. I do not usually sell my patterns this way but have had a special request and thought I'd have a go at setting one up --- but it seems much more complicated than I thought. For tiled PDFs I just print into a PDF writer from Grafis but the pages are all tiled to fit A4. I need a full scale pattern to print on a wide format printer in a PDF form --- is this possible?? Pattern files are usually exchanged as DXFs or one of the many other formats available on CAD. With hope in my heart! Steph.
Stephanie, Can I ask what size you are printing them on? I am starting to look into this now for an upcoming conference. I would like to start gifting actual patterns instead of a download able link.
It's great to hear that you're willing to learn how to prepare a CAD pattern for a print shop. PDF is a common file format preferred by many printers, and it's understandable that your Grafis system doesn't support it. But don't worry, there are still ways to achieve what you're looking for.
One option is to export your CAD pattern in a format that is compatible with a PDF writer. You mentioned that you usually print tiled PDFs, so perhaps you could try adjusting the settings to print a full-scale pattern instead. Another option is to convert your file to PDF using an online conversion tool. These tools are easy to use and often free.
Overall, it's great that you're willing to go the extra mile to meet your client's request. Keep up the positive attitude and willingness to learn, and you'll find a solution that works for you. Good luck!
