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How it works
How the patterns fit your irons, what every download contains, how to use it — and the answers to the usual questions.
Iron spacing · What's in every pattern · Using the download · Questions
Why your iron spacing matters
Pricking irons come in different hole spacings: 2.7, 3, 3.38, 3.85, 4 and 5 mm are the common ones. A pattern drawn for one spacing doesn't fit the others: along a straight edge the holes slowly drift, and at the corners and where two panels meet you end up improvising.
Every Aptus model is drawn separately for each spacing. The panel length, the corners and the stitch line are worked out so that the holes land where your iron punches. Nothing is stretched or rounded to fit, so every piece of a model agrees with every other. Try the interactive illustration on the homepage.
The stitchline from the edge follows the spacing, so the stitching looks balanced on the edge:
| Iron spacing | Stitch line from the edge | Trim allowance |
|---|---|---|
| 2.7 and 3 mm | 3 mm (≈1/8 in) | 4 mm (≈5/32 in) |
| 3.38 and 3.85 mm | 3.5 mm (≈9/64 in) | 4 mm (≈5/32 in) |
| 4 and 5 mm | 4 mm (≈5/32 in) | 4 mm (≈5/32 in) |
Both values are printed on every sheet. Stitches per inch, leather and thread for each spacing: see the pricking iron spacing chart.
Need a different stitchline from the edge, or a different trim allowance? The values above suit most makers and most leathers, so they are not on the menu. If your work needs the stitchline further from the edge (thick leather) or closer to it (fine pieces), or a different trim allowance, write to me and I will draw the pattern for you.
What's in every pattern
The same, free or paid.
- Spacings
- 2.7, 3, 3.38, 3.85, 4 and 5 mm, each on its own sheet. The free model includes all six; for a paid model you tick every spacing you own when you buy, at the same price. The stitch line sits 3 mm in for 2.7 and 3, 3.5 mm for 3.38 and 3.85, 4 mm for 4 and 5; trim allowance is 4 mm throughout. Both values are printed on every sheet.
- Paper
- A4, US Letter, or both — pattern sheets, instructions, recommendations and licence. The free model includes both.
- Openings
- Where a model has a pocket, all six opening styles: straight, bump, trapezoid, batwing and two asymmetric ramps.
- Scale check
- A 20 mm bar, a 1 inch bar and a row of holes at your spacing. Thirty seconds with a ruler, before any leather is cut.
- Instructions
- Step-by-step for the model, with the tool list up front. To mark the stitch holes, use an adjustable wing divider or the holes printed on the pattern itself. A recommendations file covers leather and thread.
- Licence
- Single-maker. Unlimited finished pieces, for yourself or for sale.
- Version
- Stamped on every sheet, so you always know which one you are holding.
Using the download
- Read the Terms & licence: what you may do with the pattern and with what you make from it.
- Read the Recommendations: leather, thread and iron spacing.
- Open the Instructions: print them or follow them on screen.
- Choose your paper folder (A4 or US Letter) and open the file for your iron spacing.
- Check the print index on page 1: it lists the pages you need for the opening style you chose.
- Print only those pages at 100% / actual size, and check the 20 mm (or 1 inch) ruler before you cut.
Questions
How do I make sure it prints at the right size?
Print at 100% or “actual size” — never “fit to page”. Then measure the scale bar on the sheet with a ruler. If it reads 20 mm (or 1 inch), everything else is right too.
My irons aren't one of the six — or I don't own any yet.
For a spacing that isn't listed, write to me and I will draw it. If you are buying your first set, 3.85 or 4 mm is the usual start for wallets and card holders; every pattern here covers both.
I have only made a piece or two. Am I ready?
Yes. The instructions start with a tool list and go step by step, and every model in the shop shows its level. Start with Model No.001, free, then take the next step up.
Can I sell what I make?
Yes. Build and sell as many finished pieces as you like — no royalty, no permission needed. The licence only rules out passing the file on, making tools or templates from it, and mass production. Details in the terms & licence.
Do I choose A4 or US Letter, and which spacings?
For paid models you choose in the cart, once for everything you buy: A4, US Letter or both, and every iron spacing you own — the price is the same whatever you pick. The free model includes everything.
Are the instructions available in other languages?
They are written in English. If the language is what stands in your way, write to me and we will sort it out.
What if there is a mistake in a sheet?
Tell me and I will fix it. Corrected sheets get a new version number, and the download is always the current one.
Can I buy several patterns at once?
Yes. Add them to the cart and choose the paper and your iron spacings once, for all of them. One payment, one email, one download page.