Microsoft ICE

[Gill]

Some scrollers occasionally scan patterns into their computers. I do, and I am often irritated when it comes to scanning a pattern that is too large for my A4 scanner. This is a common problem with patterns provided by Scroll Saw Workshop & Crafts magazine which has a pull-out that is almost the size of a bedsheet . Okay, so I'm exaggerating, but in the past I have had to fold the pattern sheet several times when scanning, then print each sheet out separately and manually join them together with clear tape. It is not an ideal solution.

Today I came across a free program from Microsoft called ICE (Image Composite Editor) which takes individual pictures with overlapping elements and automatically stitches them together. It's super! It doesn't completely solve the problems because I'm still limited to A4 paper due to the size of my printer, but it means that elements of a pattern that are broken by the edge of a scanner can be repaired and printed off separately without the need for sticky tape.

I hope this makes sense - it's probably much easier to use ICE than my post makes it appear.

[Dave J]

Hey, great idea. Heres a video on how to use it for anyone wondering Microsoft ICE

[wood-n-things]

That was a very informative video. Thanks guys for the tip and the video link. I've already installed it on my computer.

[tvman44]

Thanks for the tip, I'd dare say that 99% of scanners and printers for home use are A4.

[stephenD]

That is a super program. Thanks