Making Patterns

[CurtisKemper]

I was wondering if anyone uses a PC to make their patterns and if so what applications do you use? I have a small CNC machine from a company called Torchmate and I have been using the CAD application that came with it to make my patterns. Here is an example of one I made.

I was wondering what others are doing.

[TwinOaks]

I draw all of my designs by hand.

[mikesmith648]

I used to have a similar machine to the Torchmate. Haven't thought about using the CNC program (I still have that). gives me ideas though.

[immiketoo]

I use Adobe Illustrator if I need something precise and repeatable. I use italics only when I don't realize they're on. Too lazy to retype.

[cem]

I use Illustrator as well I also have that program you have it's actually called Signlab and is made by Cadlink they third party license it to different manufacturers of CNC and vinyl cutting machines.

I got it with my Klic N Kut Maxx which is a vinyl cutting machine, I import my illustrator files into it as I learnt illustrator first and prefer it to drawing out stuff in the Signlab / KNK Maxx software just find it a bit clunky compared to Illustrator.

Clair

[JustKate]

I also use Illustrator for 2d work. The only drawback of that is, it's not cheap. I've also gotten very nice results from InkScape, which you can download for free.

http://inkscape.org/screenshots/index.php?lang=en

[Zyurelaie]

Freehand = gimp (free) with the advanced drawing add ins (free) or my favorite art rage pro (80$)

Vector graphics and pattern drafting / layout = Inkscape (free)

Cutting down vector image for accurate printing for test purposes = posterazor (free)

Other output = freecad (uhhh FREE cad...) sketchup (free) or on one occasion Blender (free)

[Chief31794]

I use Inkscape as well. I figured I had enough money tied up at Adobe on Photoshop. Inkscape does a great job and I print out the .svg file and send to Blackriver Laser and they make all my templates. I am attaching a pdf of the banjo strap and rifle sling templates I had made recently. (I notice out west it's holsters and saddles, here in the south it's Rifle Slings and Banjo Straps, oh well).

Chief

Banjo Strap.pdf

RifleSling.pdf