ArchaicArcane

So, I think what I'm reading from most people is that you like paper copies primarily but having an electronic backup is nice, which makes downloading the original pattern acceptable.

I think this is where I like places like Craftsy. If I've purchased or even downloaded a free pattern, see it again and want it (forgetting that I already have it), Craftsy does 2 things: 1. Says on the purchase page "Thanks for buying this pattern, download it here" - to remind me and 2. Lets me download it as many times as I want, in case I have had a computer issue or just forgotten where I put the first copy.

I don't usually think of eBay for patterns. Thanks for the heads up.

I often use patterns I've previously saved as inspiration for something else that I'll make. I figure, if I haven't built it as is, chances are I felt like there was something "missing" from the design. If it has good bones though, there's no reason not to use the idea you like and expand on it.

So, the e-pattern should be less (which makes sense - no shipping or printing/bagging costs) - or the paper pattern should have some other benefit if it's going to be the same price?

ETA: Do you ever find that printing anything that needs to be "to scale" is an issue? Most patterns seem to have the instructions these days (in Reader, print "actual size" not "fit to page", etc),....

I do that in a lot of cases too, sometimes though - especially with a 3 dimensional quilted project - I find it's worth saving myself a couple of hours figuring out the pattern and spend the $10.