Scaling a Basic Bodice Block to Fit an A4 Page

We recently got a request from @Me_gs_ on Instagram to expand on the concept of scaling basic blocks or slopers in Adobe Illustrator…

“Hello! Thanks again for all your tutorials, I’m learning so much ☺️ I have a question, if I am wanting to scale down my pattern pieces to fit in an A4 pattern specification document, is it just a matter of scaling down the pattern piece using the free transform grab-the-corners-and-hold-shift method? Will I have to change any line thicknesses? Is there a quick easy way that I am missing? 😂 thanks a bunch! 🙏🏼”
Me_gs_

This is a a great question since it’s incredibly useful when working with specification or tech packs for industry. Thank you @Me_gs_!

In this Tutorial, we learn how to scale down our digital basic blocks or slopers in Adobe Illustrator using two different techniques. Technique one demonstrates how to scale our pattern by freehand using the mouse cursor. The second technique shows scaling using a percentage. Both are extremely handy when resizing your full-scale patterns for spec packs and A4 paper print-outs.

We also take this opportunity to discuss the possibility of grading in Adobe Illustrator.