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Smocking-dot template generator

Make a one-page dot guide for hand pleating. Set column and row spacing independently, add row numbers and download a PDF or SVG.

Printing and scale-check instructions

1. Template dimensions

These are the marking area dimensions before pleating, not finished garment dimensions. The starting values are an editable example.

2. Print settings

Spacing range: 2–100 mm. Single page, portrait. Oversized templates are rejected rather than scaled down. No tiling or embroidery designs.

Your template

Update the template to create a preview.

Print and check before marking fabric

  1. Choose the paper size loaded in your printer and download the PDF.
  2. Print in portrait at 100% or Actual Size. Disable Fit, Shrink and automatic scaling.
  3. Measure between the two end ticks of the 50 mm line. It should be exactly 50 mm. If it is not, correct the print settings before proceeding.
  4. Check the row and column spacing with a ruler too. Test your chosen marking method on scrap fabric first.

File dimensions are generated in physical units. Printer drivers, paper handling and SVG import settings can change output size. Physical printing has not been independently verified on your printer.

How the dot layout works

Dots are separated by your exact row and column spacing. If the dimensions divide evenly, both boundaries contain dots. Otherwise, unused space is split evenly on opposite sides; spacing stays unchanged. Row numbers identify guide rows, not stitches or a smocking design.

For a 100 × 75 mm area with 5 mm column spacing and 7.5 mm row spacing, the guide contains 21 columns × 11 rows = 231 dots. An inch is exactly 25.4 mm; ¼ inch is 6.35 mm. Switching measurement units preserves the physical dimensions.

Which spacing should I use?

Use the marking spacing called for by your own smocking instructions. The example uses ¼-inch columns and ⅜-inch rows to demonstrate unequal spacing, not to recommend it for every fabric. Take-up varies with fabric and stitching; this tool does not calculate finished garment width or seam allowances. For hand-pleating context, see Pink Hollybush Designs’ hand-pleating guide.

PDF or SVG?

PDF keeps the selected paper size for printing. SVG is a vector file for compatible editors; preserve its millimeter dimensions when importing. This is an original dot-marking guide, not an iron-on transfer, stitch pattern or copy of a commercial smocking plate.

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