PDF vs SVG - Which File Do I Need?

If your Pink Pony Design download contains both PDF and SVG files, you might be wondering which one you're supposed to use.

The short answer is:

Printing your pattern on a normal printer? Use the PDF.

Using an electronic cutting machine? You may be able to use the SVG.

What is a PDF file?

The PDF is your main sewing pattern file.

It contains the sewing instructions, photos and printable pattern pieces you need to make your project.

If you're printing your pattern pieces on A4 or US Letter paper and cutting them out by hand, the PDF is the file you want.

For the most reliable printing results, download the PDF to a computer or laptop and open it using Adobe Acrobat Reader.

What is an SVG file?

An SVG is a digital cutting file.

Instead of printing the pattern piece onto paper and cutting it out yourself, an SVG can be imported into compatible cutting-machine software so your machine can cut the shape for you.

Some Pink Pony Design patterns include SVG files for use with machines such as:

• Cricut

• Silhouette

• Brother ScanNCut

Not every Pink Pony Design pattern includes SVG files, so check the individual pattern description to see what's included.

Do I need the SVG files?

No.

If you're happy printing your pattern pieces and cutting them out by hand, you can completely ignore the SVG files.

They're simply an additional option for customers who prefer using an electronic cutting machine.

Can I open an SVG like a PDF?

Not really - they're designed for different purposes. 

You don't need to open an SVG to read your pattern instructions. Instead, the SVG is imported into the software used with your cutting machine.

Your PDF contains the actual sewing instructions.

A note for Silhouette users

SVG files can be imported into Cricut Design Space and Brother CanvasWorkspace.

For Silhouette machines, Silhouette Studio Designer Edition or above is required to import SVG files. The free Basic Edition sadly doesn't support SVG import.

And if you're having trouble importing or sizing an SVG file, don't worry - you'll find more help in the SVG & Cutting Machines section of the Pink Pony Help Center.

Happy sewing!
Maria
Pink Pony Design