New/Open
New (CTRL + N)
Click New to start a new project.
Open (CTRL + O)
Click Open to open a file.
There are many different types of files that you can open:
| .project | native format for PatternSmith version 8 and above; includes both patterns and nested copies |
| .templates | project files that include Templates information |
| .hideshot | project files that include HideShot data |
| .psxml | saved from older versions of PatternSmith |
| .pat | saved from older versions of PatternSmith |
| .ntv | saved from SmSw and various other software |
| .tpl | saved from TailorMade software (an older version of Templates) |
| .cadshotimage, .jpg, .jpeg | Files coming from Autometrix CadShot and CadShot Mobile |
| .dxf | drawing exchange file format used by many CAD programs; includes patterns only |
| .aama | version of .dxf used by many CAD programs |
| .cmd | Eastman format |
| .gbr, .nc, .iso | Gerber format, also called Gerber cut files |
| Adobe Portable Document Format | |
| .eps | Adobe Encapsulated Post Script file standard |
| .abl | A-B Verfier/AB File format (triangulation) |
| .pan | North Sails .pan file |
Opening DXF Files
Units
DXF files do not include unit information, so you will need to supply it.
Convert Text Elements
This will convert all text in the DXF file to either a Barcode or a Barcode With Text.
Create Nest
When your DXF file consists of a single pattern, or is coming from a software that has already nested your patterns, check the Create Nest check box. PatternSmith will place a copy of the pattern on the default material in the lower left corner, ready for cutting.
Use Box Perimeter
This should be used when a DXF file does not put each pattern into its own block.
Import Block As Patterns
If your DXF file contains blocks, PatternSmith can turn each Block into a separate pattern.
Force Cut Lines Left to Right
Left To Right lines are for very specific applications. Do not enable this options unless you know you need it, it can result in very inefficient cut paths.
DXF With AAMA Extensions
Controls the tools used when importing Notches and, Sew and Internal Lines.
Custom Layer
PatternSmith uses the following Layer names or element colors to map elements to tools.
| Tool | Layer Names | Color |
|---|---|---|
| First cutting tool | CUT1, CUT2 | Red |
| Second cutting tool | CUT2 | Magenta |
| Marking tool | MARK, PLOT | Green |
| Reference | REF, REFERENCE | Yellow |
If your file uses anything other than PatternSmith defaults for layers, you will see them in the Custom Layer section and be able to map your layers or colors to tools using the drop-down menu for that layer.
Opening Eastman CMD
These are the settings when opening an Eastman CMD file.
Opening Gerber .gbr, .iso, .nc
These are the settings when opening a Gerber file.
Opening PDF
These are the settings when opening a PDF file.
