Edit patterns

Unfold a model automatically, edit pattern edges, and arrange pieces on the page.

Use the pattern toolbar above the 2D view to unfold a model automatically, change how its pieces connect, and arrange the results. Select a pattern in the 2D view to work with it. The selected pattern is outlined, as shown below.

The Unfold button starts an automatic unfold. Islands follow a separate workflow: their patterns update dynamically as you edit the islands in the 3D view. See Create and manage islands.

Pattern toolbar

Tool	What it does
Transform Pattern	Moves or rotates the selected pattern in the 2D layout.
Join/Cut	Joins pattern edges or cuts a connection to separate pieces.
Measurement Tool	Measures in the pattern view.
Edit Current Shape	Edits a selected editable shape. The button is unavailable until an editable shape is selected.
Grid	Shows or hides the grid in the pattern view.
3D Panel	Shows or hides the 3D view on the left, giving the pattern view more room.
Print	Opens the printing workflow.
Pack Patterns	Arranges pattern pieces in the layout automatically.
Unfold / Cancel Unfold	Starts an automatic unfold, or cancels one that is running.

Move or rotate a pattern

1. Select Transform Pattern, then click the pattern you want to change.
2. Click and drag the pattern to move it.
3. To rotate it, click the small circular handle above the selection and drag.

Hide the 3D panel when you want more room for arranging patterns. Turn it back on to compare a piece with its position on the model.

Change how pieces connect

Select Join/Cut to work with connections between pattern pieces. Cut a connection when you need separate pieces; join edges when you want pieces connected in the flat pattern. Inspect the result in the 2D view before arranging the pieces.

Arrange and check the layout

Use Pack Patterns to arrange pieces automatically, then use Transform Pattern to adjust individual pieces. Turn on the Grid when it helps you align the layout. Use the Measurement Tool to check sizes before printing.

When the layout is ready, select Print. See Printing for page and print settings.