Pattern projectorsoftware

I Back to top Illuminator, There is an illuminator built into the base of most microscopes. The purpose of the illuminator is to provide even, high intensity light at the place of the field aperture, so that light can travel through the condensor to the specimen.

In this case, a "hybrid" approach may be useful, by projecting the pattern onto paper, tracing, and then modifying the pattern pieces, which still eliminates the step of needing to print and assemble a pattern prior to making adjustments. The adjusted paper pieces can then be saved for future use.

Getting set up to project patterns has some upfront costs associated, including the projector, mount, cords and/or wireless adaptor. This can be increased if it takes a couple of iterations to find your ideal setup as well. Do your research and make sure that the initial investment will be worthwhile in the long run.

Over time, a projector can save money spent on ink and paper (for home printing), or for A0 printing at the copy shop.  For those who like to sew a lot of different patterns, the cost of the projector can be recouped relatively quickly through savings on printing patterns.

Freeprojectorsewing patterns

F Back to top Focus (coarse), The coarse focus knob is used to bring the specimen into approximate or near focus.   Focus (fine), Use the fine focus knob to sharpen the focus quality of the image after it has been brought into focus with the coarse focus knob.

B Back to top Base, The base is the foundation on which the microscope stand is built. It is important that the base is relatively large, stable, and massive. When you are setting up a microscope for the first time ensure that the surface on which it is placed is level.

However, fear not - for those who still prefer a paper option, your Twig + Tale pattern purchases will continue to include options for A4/US Letter home printing, as well as large-format A0 files, just as they always have been.

Pattern projectorapp

The condenser has an iris diaphragm that controls the angle of the beam of light focused onto the specimen. The iris diaphram is an adjustable shutter which allows you to adjust the amount of light passing through the condenser. The angle determines the Numerical Aperture (NA) of the condenser. This diaphragm, generally called the aperture diaphragm, is one of the most important controls on the microscope.   Cover slip, Most objectives are designed for use with a cover slip between the objective and the specimen. The cover slip becomes part of the optical system, and its thickness is critical for optimal perfomance of the objective. The cover slip thickness designation on most objective lenses is 0.17 mm or 170 microns.

As the PDF pattern community continues to grow, exciting changes in technology means that the way many use sewing patterns is changing. In recent years, this has included the use of digital projectors being used as a resource- and time-saving alternative to printing and taping patterns. In response to these emerging techniques being used by the sewing community, we offer Projector files for Twig + Tale sewing patterns.

S Back to top Stage, The stage is the platform that supports the specimen. It is usually quite large to minimize vibration and it attaches to the microscope stand. The stage has an opening for the illuminating beam of light to pass through.   A spring loaded clip holds the specimen slide in place on the stage. Other types of stage clips are designed for use with petri-dishes, multiwell plates, or other specialized chambers.   Most stages have a rack and pinion mechanism that can move the specimen slide in two perpendicular (X - Y) directions. On many microscopes, stage movement is controlled using two concentric knobs located to the side or below the stage.   Stand, The stand is the basic structure of the microscope to which everything is attached. The stand, also known as the arm, is the part of the microscope that you grab to transport the microscope.

If using a projector sounds like an interesting option for you to use in your sewing practice, the Projectors for Sewing Facebook group (or Projectors for Sewing – Australia + NZ for more local advice in these countries) offers a wealth of information about selecting, installing, and calibrating a projector, and a supportive and knowledgeable community willing to help get you started.  You can find a wealth of knowledge at the Projector Sewing website or YouTube as well, if you are not on social media.

C Back to top Condenser, The condenser under the stage focuses the light on the specimen, adjusts the amount of light on the specimen, and shapes the cone of light entering the objective. One way to think about the condenser is as a light "pump" that concentrates light onto the specimen.

When the turret is rotated, it should be grasped by the ring around its edge, and not by the objectives. Using the objectives as handles can de-center and possibly damage them.

Dittopattern Projectorreview

We are excited to be a part of how projector sewing technology evolves and changes and are so pleased to be able to offer these optimised projector files for Twig + Tale patterns, free of charge, with your pattern purchase.

M Back to top Magnification, The degree to which the image of the specimen is enlarged by the objective. For example, 40 specifies 40 times (40x) the actual size of the specimen. As magnification increases, resolution (NA) must also increase so that more information can be obtained. Magnification without increased resolution yields no additional information and is called "empty magnification."

Using a projector eliminates the need to use paper and ink/toner cartridges for printing patterns, allowing for more limited use of these precious resources.

Microscope Anatomy & Function Glossary Back to Quicktime VR Microscope   A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z   A Back to top   B Back to top Base, The base is the foundation on which the microscope stand is built. It is important that the base is relatively large, stable, and massive. When you are setting up a microscope for the first time ensure that the surface on which it is placed is level.     C Back to top Condenser, The condenser under the stage focuses the light on the specimen, adjusts the amount of light on the specimen, and shapes the cone of light entering the objective. One way to think about the condenser is as a light "pump" that concentrates light onto the specimen.   The condenser has an iris diaphragm that controls the angle of the beam of light focused onto the specimen. The iris diaphram is an adjustable shutter which allows you to adjust the amount of light passing through the condenser. The angle determines the Numerical Aperture (NA) of the condenser. This diaphragm, generally called the aperture diaphragm, is one of the most important controls on the microscope.   Cover slip, Most objectives are designed for use with a cover slip between the objective and the specimen. The cover slip becomes part of the optical system, and its thickness is critical for optimal perfomance of the objective. The cover slip thickness designation on most objective lenses is 0.17 mm or 170 microns. D Back to top   E Back to top   F Back to top Focus (coarse), The coarse focus knob is used to bring the specimen into approximate or near focus.   Focus (fine), Use the fine focus knob to sharpen the focus quality of the image after it has been brought into focus with the coarse focus knob.   G Back to top   H Back to top   I Back to top Illuminator, There is an illuminator built into the base of most microscopes. The purpose of the illuminator is to provide even, high intensity light at the place of the field aperture, so that light can travel through the condensor to the specimen.   J Back to top   K Back to top   L Back to top   M Back to top Magnification, The degree to which the image of the specimen is enlarged by the objective. For example, 40 specifies 40 times (40x) the actual size of the specimen. As magnification increases, resolution (NA) must also increase so that more information can be obtained. Magnification without increased resolution yields no additional information and is called "empty magnification."   N Back to top Numerical Aperture (NA), The maximum angle from which it can accept light. Lenses that accept light from higher angles have greater resolving power, thus NA defines resolving power. The maximum NA of objectives is 1.4, and it is limited by the physics of light and the refractive index of glass.   O Back to top Objective Lens, The objective lens is the single most important component of the microscope. Together with the condenser, it determines the resolution that the microscope's capability. Learning how to use the correct objective for a particular application is a prerequisite for good microscopy.   Important information describing the objective lens is engraved on the side of its barrel. This is the best performance the objective is capable of and it will only yield this performance when used properly. Ocular Lenses, The ocular lenses are the lens closest to the eye and usually have a 10x magnification. Since light microscopes use binocular lenses there is a lens for each eye. It is important to adjust the distance between the microscope oculars, so that it matches your interpupillary distance. This will yield better image quality and reduce eye strain.   P Back to top   Plan, There are many different kinds of objective lenses. Common designations include "plan" for flat field, "achromat" for partially color-corrected, and "apochromat" for highly color corrected. These designations may become combined as in "plan achromat." Parfocal, The specimen is focused for all objectives if it is focused for one objective. In other words, once the specimen is focused under one objective it will be in approximate focus under other objectives. Q Back to top   R Back to top   S Back to top Stage, The stage is the platform that supports the specimen. It is usually quite large to minimize vibration and it attaches to the microscope stand. The stage has an opening for the illuminating beam of light to pass through.   A spring loaded clip holds the specimen slide in place on the stage. Other types of stage clips are designed for use with petri-dishes, multiwell plates, or other specialized chambers.   Most stages have a rack and pinion mechanism that can move the specimen slide in two perpendicular (X - Y) directions. On many microscopes, stage movement is controlled using two concentric knobs located to the side or below the stage.   Stand, The stand is the basic structure of the microscope to which everything is attached. The stand, also known as the arm, is the part of the microscope that you grab to transport the microscope.   T Back to top Tube, the tube houses many of the optical components of the microscope. The optical tube length of most biomedical microscopes is 160 millimeters but tube geometry varies considerably due to relay lenses and proprietary design features. In most modern microscopes the tube is folded to make the microscope easier to use.   Early microscopes had straight tubes such as this model built by Robert Hooke in the mid 17th century. Tube length, describes the optical tube length for which the objective was designed. This is 160 mm (6.3 inches) for modern biomedical microscopes.   Turret, Most microscopes have several objective lenses mounted on a rotating turret to facilitate changing lenses. An audible click identifies the correct position for each lens as it swings into place. When the turret is rotated, it should be grasped by the ring around its edge, and not by the objectives. Using the objectives as handles can de-center and possibly damage them. U Back to top   V Back to top   W Back to top   X Back to top   Y Back to top   Z Back to top   Back to Quicktime VR Microscope

O Back to top Objective Lens, The objective lens is the single most important component of the microscope. Together with the condenser, it determines the resolution that the microscope's capability. Learning how to use the correct objective for a particular application is a prerequisite for good microscopy.   Important information describing the objective lens is engraved on the side of its barrel. This is the best performance the objective is capable of and it will only yield this performance when used properly. Ocular Lenses, The ocular lenses are the lens closest to the eye and usually have a 10x magnification. Since light microscopes use binocular lenses there is a lens for each eye. It is important to adjust the distance between the microscope oculars, so that it matches your interpupillary distance. This will yield better image quality and reduce eye strain.

Calibrating the projector is simply how a user goes about making sure that the projector is displaying the pattern straight, and to-scale accurately. It can be a bit fiddly, potentially requiring some time and patience, especially the first time. However once mounted projectors have been calibrated they rarely need recalibrating – and after the initial calibration process, any re-calibration that needs done becomes quite quick and easy to do.

Bestpattern projector

We’d like to provide those who are curious about this technology with a basic overview of what they are and how they are used, as well as additional resources you can seek out for even more information about making a Projector work for you.

For sewing purposes, many of these same projectors can be used by sewists to display images downward onto a horizontal surface, such as a cutting table + mat.  By doing this, it is possible to project a digital pattern directly onto fabric positioned below cut it directly, eliminating the need for a paper pattern entirely.

There is no "one size fits all" solution, so it will take research to decide on a projector type and setup that will work in your space. This can leave some sewers a bit bewildered when it comes to getting started. Also, some basic DIY skills are required to mount the projector, when choosing a mounted variety, or figuring out how to most effectively use an UST projector.

While often touted as an ecologically responsible alternative to printing patterns, projectors are not devoid of environmental impact. Limited-impact paper is available, and paper is readily recyclable in many locales, whereas the effects of e-waste can be devastating when these devices are simply discarded at the end of their lives. We encourage users to consider this impact when making their own projector-purchasing decisions - taking steps such as:

P Back to top   Plan, There are many different kinds of objective lenses. Common designations include "plan" for flat field, "achromat" for partially color-corrected, and "apochromat" for highly color corrected. These designations may become combined as in "plan achromat."

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

Projectors may be a good option for those with arthritis or other functional hand limitations, by eliminating the need to cut and tape patterns and therefore allowing the steps of cutting and sewing fabric to be completed with greater ease.

Many sewers find that projectors make it really easy to “hack” different features of patterns together, since they eliminate the need for printing and assembling all those patterns. Just open one pattern, cut what you need, and move to the next!

Dittopattern Projector

Alternatively, some sewers will use digital programs like Inkscape to make their adjustments digitally before projecting to cut fabric directly – but like any skill, these programs can have a bit of a learning curve to overcome.

N Back to top Numerical Aperture (NA), The maximum angle from which it can accept light. Lenses that accept light from higher angles have greater resolving power, thus NA defines resolving power. The maximum NA of objectives is 1.4, and it is limited by the physics of light and the refractive index of glass.

That answer is often as unique as the sewist using it! Setups can vary quite a lot – we’ve shared a number of examples by some of the creative sewists in our Twig + Tale Chat group on Facebook at the end of this post to show some different options to consider. Whatever your need, there’s a solution for you.

(Note: As best practices have changed over time with the evolution of projector sewing, some files may not have all of these features based on when they were created. We are working to update these files over time to bring them in line with current recommendations, and will continue to work with projector sewing enthusiasts to make sure these continue to be as optimal as possible.)

Epsonpattern projector

For most sewists who use projectors, saving time is identified as one of the main benefits.  There is no doubt that printing and assembling PDF patterns can be a barrier, especially when sewing time is limited, and A0 printing can be a costly alternative for some over time.  Projecting patterns can eliminate this step entirely.

Basic modifications, such as sleeve or leg length, are simple to do “on the fly”, by simply cutting to where the adjustment is made, sliding the fabric, and continuing. However more complicated adjustments, such as a FBA are more challenging.

T Back to top Tube, the tube houses many of the optical components of the microscope. The optical tube length of most biomedical microscopes is 160 millimeters but tube geometry varies considerably due to relay lenses and proprietary design features. In most modern microscopes the tube is folded to make the microscope easier to use.   Early microscopes had straight tubes such as this model built by Robert Hooke in the mid 17th century. Tube length, describes the optical tube length for which the objective was designed. This is 160 mm (6.3 inches) for modern biomedical microscopes.   Turret, Most microscopes have several objective lenses mounted on a rotating turret to facilitate changing lenses. An audible click identifies the correct position for each lens as it swings into place. When the turret is rotated, it should be grasped by the ring around its edge, and not by the objectives. Using the objectives as handles can de-center and possibly damage them.

A projected pattern makes it simple to visualise and position pattern pieces precisely when using prints, fabric panels, or border prints, as the paper pattern is not covering the print of the fabric.  Pattern markings, such as pocket placement lines, are easy to see and transfer to fabric.

This alternative Projector file format allows Projector users to enjoy an optimized experience with their sewing patterns, as a complimentary value-add to our patterns. They've been included some time now with new releases, and we have been busy updating older patterns to include these optimized Projector files as well – we’re pleased to announce that you can now enjoy them with most Twig + Tale patterns!

Dittopattern projectoralternative

Parfocal, The specimen is focused for all objectives if it is focused for one objective. In other words, once the specimen is focused under one objective it will be in approximate focus under other objectives.

There is no doubt that storing paper patterns takes up space and can be an organisational challenge.  Using digital files saves on physical storage space.

Of course, there can be some challenges and limitations for some in using a projector for sewing patterns as well.  (Many of these points are related to the setup and initial learning curve – they are more issues to be aware of going in, rather than long-term challenges. We will provide some great resources on how to tackle these challenges as well, so keep reading!)

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You may already be familiar with digital projectors - they are often used for displaying movies, presentations, and more in the home, office, and school settings. They are often set up to project onto a large surface such as a wall or screen to allow for large-scale viewing.

For a permanent projector installation, many sewers prefer to have a dedicated space. However, there are other options for using a projector in a non-dedicated space, such as installing the projector on a mobile mount or swing out arm, in a less-used or inconspicuous area, and more.  USTs also make it possible to use a projector without a ceiling mount, and make setup and takedown easy.

For those who like to modify or hack patterns for fit or style, it may be more challenging to do this with a projected image.

Some projectors will be more suited than others, due to a variety of factors. These will depend both on how you desire to use it, as well as the specifications of the projector itself. Your needs may be defined by the space you wish to set it up in; limitations in your ability to amount to a wall or piece of furniture; how mobile you need your projector setup to be; and more.

While it is possible to use A4/letter and A0 files for projection, optimised Projector files are much more user friendly, as they are created specifically with some of the challenges of projecting in mind.  Following the guidance of best practices in the projector sewing communities, we've incorporated the following features into T+T projector files so that they are as clear and user-friendly as possible: