How to print a cross stitch pattern PDF at the right size
Print at 100%, never 'fit to page', and the chart pages overlap exactly where they should.
Paper and scaling
Our PDFs are laid out for US Letter and also fit A4. In the print dialog choose Actual Size or 100%, not Fit or Shrink. The chart is split across pages with the heavy ten-stitch lines continuing from page to page, and scaling one page differently from another breaks the join.
Black and white
Every square carries a symbol as well as a colour, so a mono printer gives a usable chart. Print the key page in colour if you can, since matching symbol to floss is easier with the swatch beside it. If not, the DMC number is printed next to every symbol.
Working from a screen
A tablet shows the colour chart better than any home printer. Open the PDF in a reader that lets you zoom, or in a cross stitch app that marks off completed stitches. Keep a printed copy of the key anyway; the thread shop will not want your tablet.
Marking progress
Highlight stitched areas with a pale marker on the printed chart, or use a different highlighter per colour. Cross off rows rather than individual squares; it is faster and just as reliable.
