Say farewell to paper patterns, endless printing and taping, and hello to the latest in sewing tech, the Ditto sewing pattern projector!
Thanks to JOANN for sponsoring this post and sending me a Ditto projector to review.
In this post, I'll share everything you need to know about a Ditto pattern projector as well as a few projects I've made for myself and my daughter.
Table of Contents
What is Ditto?
Ditto is both a software app and a sewing pattern projector designed to make cutting fabric easier than ever before. Ditto software allows you to input body measurements to create a customized sewing pattern for a perfect fit that’s tailored to your unique body.
How Does Ditto Work?
The Ditto pattern projector works by projecting an outline of your sewing pattern cut lines onto your Ditto cutting mat. This makes the cutting process "seamless." See what I did there? 😉
Here's a quick overview of the process.
Step One: Select and Customize Your Pattern
Use the Ditto software to select your desired digital sewing pattern. Be sure to enter your measurements for the best possible fit.
Step Two: Launch the Ditto App
The Ditto App is compatible with a variety of different devices and systems. Launch the Ditto App and connect the projector. Then select your pattern within the app. Customize the pattern by changing the length, neckline, or sleeves for a totally unique pattern.
Step Three: Project Then Cut
Once your pattern is selected project it onto the mat, and cut the fabric along the illuminated guidelines.
Why is Ditto Better Than a Traditional Sewing Pattern or Printable PDF Pattern?
Ditto eliminates the need for paper patterns. If you've ever printed off 50+ pages, trimmed down the edges, laid them all out in order, taped them together, and cut out the pattern pieces you know the struggle is real! 😅 As a sewing pattern designer myself, I know this process all too well!
Ditto allows you to store all of your patterns virtually in one easy-to-access location. It also allows for the customization of Ditto branded patterns to enable you to get the perfect fit for your unique body.
What Comes With the Ditto Projector Purchase?
Included in the box:
- Ditto Projector
- 3 Set Up Beams
- 6x24 Inch Cutting Mat
- Rotary Cutter
- ½ lb. Fabric Weights (x4)
- Pattern Target Stickers
- Power Cord
- Level
- Cord Covers
How Much Does Ditto Cost?
Currently, (as of July 6th, 2023) a Ditto Pattern Projector costs $799. Joann offers 4 interest-free payments of $199.75 through Klarna.
Click here to purchase a Ditto.
*Ditto products are excluded from JOANN in-store and online coupons.
Does Ditto Require a Subscription?
You will want a Ditto Patterns Subscription to get the most out of your projector. This will give you free access to all of the Ditto branded patterns, the ability to add patterns to your library, and access to measurement profiles.
You can choose from the Monthly plan priced at $9.99 per month or select the Annual Plan priced at $99.99 a year.
Keep in mind that every Ditto comes with 3 months free by scanning the QR code on your Ditto box.
Who is Ditto Made By?
Ditto was made in collaboration between Singer and JOANN. Development of Ditto began in 2019 and took over three years. It's been thoroughly tested to ensure you get the very best results!
Where Can You Purchase Ditto?
Ditto pattern projectors are available for purchase at JOANN online and in-store.
What Brands of Sewing Patterns Does Ditto Offer?
Currently, Ditto offers patterns from Butterick, Kwik Sew, Liesel + Co, Little Lizard King, Madalynne Intimates, McCalls, Named, New Look, Style Arc, Straight Stitch, and Simplicity. Ditto also offers their own line of Ditto branded patterns.
Are All Patterns Sold by Ditto Customizable?
No, as of right now only some of the Ditto branded patterns have the option to customize the fit with unique measurements as well as the style of the pattern. Patterns sold by Indie brands are not customizable through Ditto, currently.
However, I've really enjoyed using the customization feature on the Ditto branded patterns. Below is an example of a customizable pattern.
How Does Ditto Customize Patterns To Fit You?
Within the Ditto platform, you can use the Measurement Profile to create customized profiles for each person you wish to sew for. Simply select "Create New Profile", and enter the name, gender, and standard size. Next, you'll be asked to take 17 custom measurements to ensure the perfect fit.
Each measurement comes with a guide to ensure you're measuring the correct area which I found really helpful! Having all of your measurements in one spot is AMAZING!! You can even create multiple profiles which is helpful if you like to sew for other people.
Can You Upload Your Own PDF Patterns to the Ditto Software?
As of right now (July 6th, 2023) you can NOT upload your own PDF patterns to be used with the Ditto software and projector. Ditto has released several statements saying that this functionality is coming soon! I'm hopeful for this as I have an extensive PDF library I'd love to be able to use with my projector.
How Does Ditto Calibrate a Pattern?
Calibration is the process of removing distortion or skew for an accurate pattern projection. You need to calibrate the Ditto system every time the product has been moved or taken down, if the beam is accidentally knocked out of place, or a different mobile device is used for the Ditto app.
To calibrate, set up the Ditto projector, connect to wifi, and select Calibrate from the app. Take a photo of the white outline and the Ditto app will calibrate the pattern.
What are the Cons of Ditto?
Overall, I really enjoyed using the Ditto Pattern Projector, but there were a few downsides that you should be aware of before purchasing to make sure this is the right projector for your sewing space and needs.
Ceiling Height Requirement - The workspace requires a flat ceiling with a height between 7.5 - 10 ft. My house has 13' ceilings so I ended up setting up my projector in a doorway before I realized I could mount it on top of a table. Once I figured that out, I moved it into a much better location.
Projection Limitation - The projector projects the image directly down from where it’s mounted. This presents an issue if your table or cutting counter is deeper than the cutting mat. The workaround I found for this was to mount the Ditto Projector on top of my tabletop so I could scoot it closer to myself.
Splicing Can Be Tricky - If you plan on cutting out a large-sized pattern like a dress or pair of pants, you might find it difficult to use the Splicing feature. I found Splicing worked really well with my thicker, heavier-weight fabrics, but it was tricky to use with fabrics with stretch or slinkiness.
Small Mat - The small size of the cutting mat left me wanting more cutting space. I'm used to using a 36"x59" mat so downsizing took a little getting used to.
What’s Coming Soon?
The ability to upload your existing PDF patterns to your Ditto projectors is already in the works!
Sizes of Ditto’s customizable patterns will be increased from size 28 to size 36 for women and size 52 to 64 for men. As a pattern designer myself, inclusive sizing is very important so I'm looking forward to seeing this update!
New Ditto patterns are added each month as well as additional independent designers and partners.
Ditto is currently developing options for sewists to purchase different components of the Ditto system such as alternative options to installing the projector without the beam.
Ready to see what I made with my Ditto pattern projector?
I grabbed this fun pink and orange floral Charmeuse from JOANN a few months back, and I've been saving it for the perfect outfit. When my daughter spotted it, she requested matching outfits, and of course, I obliged! It's currently sold out, but I'm crossing my fingers it gets restocked soon.
I also picked up some of JOANN's new Lucky Brand Denim. Did you know JOANN carried Lucky Brand denim? I was pretty excited when I found this on my last trip. It's a great weight for this pattern (4oz) and very high quality.
I used the Ditto Victoria Top as my pattern for my crop top and added ties for a bit of drama. I love the look of a romantic bow during the summer months.
For the pants, I used the Style Arc Clare Pant, and I have to gush over how perfectly this pattern fits!! I'm a size 8 chest, 10 waist, and 14 hips so finding patterns that fit me is always tricky. These pants fit like a dream. I shortened the length of the elastic by a few inches to cinch it in to fit my waist but other than that the fit was spot on.
For my daughter's outfit, I used the Style Arc Pippa Dress pattern. It was a super simple sew, and I love how it turned out!
Do you have questions about Ditto? Feel free to drop them in the comments below so I can answer them!
Are you ready to purchase a Ditto Pattern Projector? Click here to shop!
Thanks to JOANN for sponsoring this post and providing me with a Ditto to review.
Remember to save this post on your favorite Pinterest board.
This is a game changer. It will save so much time cutting and putting patterns together.
Oh wow,this is neat,definitely will save time,&,looks so easy to do!
What a great app!
So helpful
Wow this is definitely a game changer and it will help save so much time!
Time saver for sure
I really need this in my life. Talk about a game changer!
Awesome thank
This is so cool!
This is really cool!
That would make the process so much easier!
I've downloaded the app now I just need to figure out what to make!
I had absolutely no idea there was anything like this. How amazing.
That's a cool setup
What a great use of technology
Looks like it’ll simplify patterns a lot!
So cool!
This is soo cool!! Thanks for showing us.
Game changer!
Such an amazing tool! I just started my sewing journey and this is definitely on my wishlist!
Love this.
I need one in my life
Ditto is limited and costly. Sewists have been using projectors for several years now for significantly less money. And you can use any PDF pattern. My set up cost about 130.00 and my projected size is 35 x 50. Ditto has a projected size of 24 x 36–very limiting. And a subscription?? Not for me
What system do you use?
So cool
I would love one
This is really cool!
Grading between sizes is not difficult for me to do. Many patterns are drafted for a B cup. The measurements for high bust are not included. Does Ditto provide bust adjustment customization? Also, are proportion adjustments possible? I like the idea of saving paper, however, if adjustments are not provided, I would still need to do paper re-drafting to achieve a great fit.
Very cool for those who sew clothes!
Awesome!
Certainly a time saver
Looks so easy to use
I wonder if I can use this for baby doll clothing?
I'm waiting to be able to buy this product.
Wowzer-- This is a Pricey Mirical!!!
This sounds like a great idea! I wonder how it works with lycra fabrics?
like all the thing you do
I love this technology!
Very nice
So cool
This is amazing. I remember when my grandma use to make our clothing and it was terrific. This is a game changer from that.
This is so cool!
This is really great!
I find the patterns very limited compared to the cost. I may be more interested if they add indie pattern designers and don’t charge a subscription on top of the cost of the projector system. It would be wonderful and simplify as well if they included better instructions. Ditto is not for beginners.
Wonderful product!
This is great value thanks!
Very Nice
Looks like a great software program and easy to use.
Ames me want to learn to sew
This has inspired me to bring back out my sewing machine.
Great crafting device!
this is neat !
Very cool technology!
Interesting and definitely a neat program
I need more stickers already but can't see to figure out where to buy them? I think they are just plain old 3/4 inch stickers but not sure if that would work with the Ditto or not.
I enjoy reading your blog.
Looking good!
That seems as if could be quite useful.
This is amazing!!!
Love your website and all you have to offer for DIY projects for busy moms like Myself !
Love all the helpful ideas you always have in your blogs
As a small business seamstress/designer, I spend alot of time just cutting out patterns. This would be such a blessing!
This is a game changer!
Oh how I would love to have one!
Can we use this with paper projects? This would also be good for rug designs.
That's cool. They need this thing at the Middle school for the sewing room
Wonderful and such a helpful tool!
So neat
Mom would have liked this. She made all her clothes
This is awesome!!!
such great tutorials and everything is so cute
Amazing what an be done.
What an awesome app!
This is amazing and a huge game changer!
Wow- this looks like a great product. There are so many super useful functions!!
I would love to have this!
This is such a neat concept
My mom would love this!
What a time saver!
That is a lot easier than piecing together paper pieces!
This is awesome!
Would like to try this!
I wish I had your talent!
Mom would have liked this!
This looks cool. Would love to try!
Wish my Grandma was still here to see this. She is the one that taught me to sew. I remember her making her own patterns and us sewing them. Sure miss those times with her.
This is fabulous!
This is my first hearing/reading about this, great article.
It’s so cool
Interesting article
I really love that you can customize patterns to fit "you"! I need to sew more!
Wow, game changer!
So cool!
Cool!
Thanks for this amazing post.
So cute! I especially love the pants.
This is amazing! I like the outfits you made!
Very Cool!
NICE
Technology has come so far in the craft world. I do not sew enough clothing to use this but ut looks to be very helpful
This would make garment sewsing SO much easier. This is going at the top of my wish list!!
I could get through so many more projects with this technology. Having limited energy means I've cut back on my projects.
This is a game changer. Perfect fitting garments at last.
a great idea!
Thanks for sharing your patterns
Looks like a great time saver.
That's awesome!
I can't tell you how much time that would save when it comes to mass producing clothing or crafts/ anything with a pattern.
Once they make some improvements and come down on the price, this would be a great product.
Very nice
I would love to try it,but think it would take me some practice before getting it!!!
Well thought-out product. Daughter is a cutie too.
I'm not a sewer, but the instructions make it sound doable for most people.
Great tool for making customized patterns, but expensive! I don't sew enough to justify the cost of this one.
I'm too shakey to be a sewer but I've always been so envious of those that can!!!
Adding this to my wishlist!
What will they think of next?
This sounds easier than mixing my current patterns and a lot more resilient than the "onion skins" I have. Though the ones from the 60's and 70's are still hanging on.
Love sewing. Great post!
This is AMAZING!!
Wow! So cool
Very nice look on you!
This really does change things in the sewing world! Congratulations!
Its amazing how far technology has come. I'm sure this will make things easier for a lot of people. Congratulations on your partnering up with Joanna.
Definitely this is a game changer!
I love this. Adorable outfit.
Interesting!
wow this is unreal will make life easier
Ive never sewn anything of my own but you seriously have me considering it now
Wow, so neat!
This would be a perfect gift for my mom. She's always sewing items for everyone.
Never even knew this was a thing!! It’s so cool
This would make the sewing projects so much easier!!!
New tech never ceases to amaze me. Cute outfits!
Love to win this for my grand kids!
My mom would have LOVED all of this back in the day when she use to make my outfits and costumes.
I need to change up my equipment for sure!
Makes me want to pull out & dust off my sewing machine. I’m going to check this out.
Wow!! I love the proof technology! I spent hours when I was younger cutting out patterns. It’s been years since I’ve sewn anything, however this has me thinking I could get back into it.
Awesome
LOVE those pants!!!
What an amazing product!
This software is amazing!
Loads of fun!
what an interesting technology
Amazing what this product can do!
This is really incredible, I can't believe everything is can do !!
Such a helpful tool! Thanks so much for sharing!
This so so interesting to me and I need to find out more about it.
This is cool but how much space does it need?
I am learning so much. This is so cool!
I so need this in my life.
What a great way to do this
This looks awesome!
That’s neat
Very interesting concept.
Looks interesting.
This is such a time saver
Very cool idea! I didn’t know about this idea! Thank you! I am still very new to the sewing world!
That's amazing. A game changer for sure
Pretty cool! Mommy and me outfit.
Thanks
I don't do sewing, but this is really great for those who do
This is a great idea! I can't wait to use it.
Love garment sewing and this would make it so much easier.
I am thinking about purchasing one of these. They are amazing.
I have a friend who would love this.
What a great idea
Good luck y'all
Very cool!
Great machine and affordable
Great machine and affordable
Makes me want to do more sewing.
Cool Stuff
Such a cool use of technology
What a great app!!
Now this is cool!
This is awesome!
Amazing tool!
I don't sew enough to spend this kind of money. I don't have closets full of clothes. This is for a dedicated and/or professional sewist.