36 best sewing patterns for beginners (2024)

Get ready folks – we've rounded up our favourite sewing patterns for beginners so you can start making your own clothes, accessories and more!

Whether you're returning to sewing after a few years away from your machine or have never sewn a stitch before, it's a good idea to start making clothes with a simple pattern so you can perfect the basics before moving on to trickier projects.

We've included a mixture of free patterns and designs to buy in our roundup. If you want to brush up on your sewing skills before treating yourself to a paid pattern you can find loads of fab projects in our free sewing patterns section too.

We've all got to start somewhere, so fire up that sewing machine, give one of these beginner sewing patterns a try and we promise you'll never look back. Scroll down to see our clothing patterns or jump to our easy accessories to sew patterns.

Best sewing patterns for beginners: Clothes

Is there anything more satisfying than wearing clothes that you've made yourself? We've put together some of our best sewing patterns for beginners to help you get started.

These easy sewing projects will help you to build up your confidence and bring out your individual style at the same time.

4 skirt sewing patterns for beginners

1. Wrap skirt pattern

If you want to try making a skirt for the first time, we'd recommend beginning with this simple wrap skirt pattern from Simply Sewing Magazine.

It's easy to follow and the pattern includes a video tutorial to guide you through the process.

2. Maxi skirt

A maxi skirt is a great wardrobe staple to wear in the summer and early autumn. It will keep you cool on blazing hot summer afternoons and keep your legs warm on summer evenings.

If you struggle to find a maxi skirt to fit your frame then this is the pattern for you, because it can be adjusted to suit your figure perfectly. Try making our DIY maxi skirt pattern today.

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3. Salida skirt

Is there anything comfier than a cord skirt? This super versatile skirt could be worn to work or thrown on at the weekend. While we think it looks great in cord, it could easily be made using denim or linen too.

This pattern is great if you want to try something a little trickier to make and take your stitching to the next level.

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4. Victory skirt

Get started with dressmaking in style with this easy-to-construct starter skirt with a gathered waist – it's a great project for learning how to use your sewing machine, handle fabric, add a button and finish with a hem.

You'll also get to try your hand at inserting a zip. Want to adapt the length or design? It's easy to shorten or lengthen, and you can also choose from three different pocket styles.

The Victory skirt pattern includes six sizes.

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5 easy top sewing patterns

1. Staple tee

What do we want? Easy-sew tops with a comfy fit! When do we want it? Now!

This Staple tee is the top you'll want to wear with every outfit and t-shirts are a breeze for beginners to sew. You can even extend the pattern to make a cool t-shirt dress.

The pattern is available in UK sizes 6-20 (US sizes 4-18).

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2. Cropped kimono-style top

With just two pieces to cut out and stitch together, garment construction doesn't get any simpler than this kimono-inspired top from Simply Sewing.

It can be made in a variety of fabrics – make yours in a cotton print as we have for a crisp, structured feel, or try crepe or viscose for a more loose, draped look. And if the cropped length isn't for you, it's easy to lengthen to suit your style.

Get the free kimono top pattern and find out how to make it.

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3. Silk cami top

Learn to sew with silky fabrics like a pro with this chic and simple top. You'll get to practise sewing garments with a neat finish using French seams and learn how to add an all-in-one facing for a professional finish.

Need a hand with your cami? Check out the Silk cami sewalong.

The pattern is available in UK sizes 8 to 18 from Sew Over It's pattern store.

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4. Wrap top

Get ready for warmer days by making your own stylish wrap top! You just need three cotton rectangles to make this breezy summer look.

Find out how to this cute wrap top pattern with Debbie Wainhouse.

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5. Inari crop tee

Cropped tees are of the moment, and it's easy to sew the trend. Not ready to wear cropped tops? No problem! You can turn your tee into a loose-fitting dress, as this pattern gives you both options.

Try your hand at sewing short sleeves with a cuffed effect and adding slits at the side of the dress version.

If you're a bit nervous about sewing with knits and heavier fabrics then this is the garment for you as it works well with light to medium-weight fabric with no or slight stretch.

Sew it in UK sizes 4-18 (EUR 32-46, US 0 -14).

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15 dress sewing patterns for beginners

1. Rosa dress

This swishy dress is perfect for summer parties – or choose an autumnal pattern and team it up with a cardigan for cooler September outings.

Available in UK sizes 6-20 (US 4-18/EUR 34-38).

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2. Cleo pinafore and dungaree dress

The on-trend Cleo pattern has no fiddly zips to worry about and minimal fitting required. Make it dungaree-style with buckles or as a pinafore with button fastenings. You can vary the length and add optional topstitching and patch pockets on the front or back.

If you're a complete newbie to dressmaking, never fear! The pattern comes with easy-to-follow steps and jargon-busting instructions, plus photos to show you how to sew each part.

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3. Moneta dress

Say hello to simple dressmaking with bags of understated attitude. With its mix of elegance and comfort, this is THE dress to make if you want to learn to sew with knits and make a garment in just a few hours or days (depending on your available sewing time!).

Choose between three versions which all share a curved neckline, fitted bodice and shirred skirt with in-seam pockets. You can adjust the sleeves, collar and bodice lining to suit your skills and style.

Sew it in sizes XS to 3XL.

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4. Amélie square neckline dress

Bring some vintage style to your wardrobe with this gorgeous square neckline dress pattern! This lovely design includes a fluted sleeve option so you can put your new sewing skills to the test!

It's ideal for spring and summer days, but you can team it up with a cosy cardigan when the weather starts to cool off in September.

This dress pattern comes in UK sizes 6-20 (US 4-18/EUR 34-38).

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Catch up with your favourite craft TV show

The Sewing Bee is one of our all-time favourite craft TV shows and it always inspires us to do more stitching!

Find out the latest news about the Great British Sewing Bee with Gathered.

5. Coco dress and top

Learn to sew with knits and you'll unlock a whole new world of dressmaking... and the Coco is here to show you how!

Whether you choose to make Coco as a Breton top or knit dress this pattern comes with plenty of variations to suit your style. Plus it's super simple to sew, easy fitting, and doesn't include any zips, buttons or other fiddly bits.

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6. DIY wrap dress

Twist it, drape it, tie it… one dress, countless ways to wear it – and we’re here to show you how to sew it! Portia Lawrie has designed this convertible wrap dress tutorial for a clever multi-style frock that makes party dressing a doddle.

This is a patternless project, so you can skip the pattern-cutting stage completely and make this dress using just your measurements (and your chosen fabric, of course!). It’s simple and quick to make and you can style it in a multitude of ways.

Learn how to sew an infinity dress

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7. Ultimate shift dress

You can never have too many shift dresses! Designed with beginners in mind, the Sew Over It Ultimate Shift Dress pattern will guide you through the dressmaking process, from sewing bust darts to attaching neckline facings.

There's plenty of scope for customisation once you've mastered the basics, and it comes with a free maternity hack option.

This pattern is available in UK sizes 8 to 20 as a paper or PDF pattern from the Sew Over It pattern store

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8. Leila dress

This pretty dress is super comfy and perfect for lounging around at home – or throwing on at the weekend for some casual style. It's easy enough for beginners to make too!

The pattern is available UK sizes 6-20 (US 4-18/EUR 34-38).

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9. Breton dress

This beautiful skater dress is incredibly comfy and easy to wear. Give it a classic Breton look by opting for a striped fabric for the top section or get creative and make up your own colour combo.

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10. Liberty dress

This classic dress is suitable for almost any occasion! Dress it up with a smart jacket for a special occasion or throw on a cardigan for a more casual look.

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11. Beachcomber dress

This easy-to-wear dress can be made in a variety of shapes and sizes and worn as a dress or a tunic. It's a wardrobe essential for spring and summer days! This pattern is available in a wide range of sizes from XXS up to 5XL.

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12. Olivia dress

This lovely dress is floaty and elegant! It has a shirred waist panel to ensure a comfortable fit and this pattern is suitable for more adventurous beginners to make.

The Olivia dress pattern comes in UK sizes 6-20.

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13. Lara set

This fantastic set comes with both a top and a dress to make. We're completely smitten by the chic outline of the Lara dress – it even has pockets! This is another sewing project that would be ideal for a beginner sewist who is looking for something a little more challenging to make. This would be a wonderful outfit to wear for an occasion where you need to look smart and sophisticated.

The matching Lara top has a lovely shift silhouette – both practical and stylish. Available in UK sizes 6-20.

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14. Sun dress

Dreaming of warm summer days? This gorgeous sun dress created by The Avid Seamstress is bound to become one of the staples of your summer wardrobe!

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15. Wrap dress

Learn how to draft your own sewing pattern to match your own measurements with Portia Lawrie's guide to how to make a wrap dress without a pattern.

Try our DIY wrap dress pattern.

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4 trouser patterns for beginners

1. Sweatpants

Who doesn't love cosying up in a pair of snuggly sweatpants? This easy sweatpants pattern by Portia Lawrie is made using a pair of sweatpants you already own as a template, so you can guarantee the perfect fit.

These sweatpants are so comfy, you'll want to make them in every colour!

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2. Leggings

Leggings are both casual and comfortable to wear, so they're a real wardrobe staple. The good news is that they're really easy for beginners to sew!

Discover how to make this simple leggings pattern with Karoline Dahrling-Hughes.

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3. 101 trousers

We were looking around for a go-to trousers pattern for ages when we came across these drawstring trousers with side pockets and a false fly, cut to sit on the waist.

Choose between three versions – cropped and tapered trousers, wide, straight trousers or shorts (pictured below).

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4. Pyjama bottoms

Is there anything more cosy than snuggling up in some comfy pyjama bottoms? This easy sewing pattern from The New Craft House is a straightforward sewing project for beginners and they're perfect for chilly winter nights!

Find out how to make pyjama bottoms.

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Best sewing patterns for beginners: Accessories

Looking for more sewing patterns for beginners? Every outfit needs some stylish accessories to finish the look!

We've put together some of our favourite easy sewing projects from Simply Sewing Magazine to help you get started – they're quick and easy to make and you're bound to find something you love. Many of these patterns make great gifts too.

Take a look at the list below to see our collection of easy sewing projects and discover your next make!

2 easy hair accessory patterns

1. DIY headband

This quick and easy sewing pattern can be made using fat quarters or any leftover scraps of fabric that you have hanging around. It's an ideal sewing project for beginners too. Find out how to make a headband with this sewing pattern created by Jennie Jones.

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2. Homemade scrunchies

Scrunchies are simple to make and can be made to match every outfit! Try this easy sewing pattern for beginners created by Jessica Entwistle and learn how to make a scrunchie step by step.

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4 free bag patterns for beginners

1. Bento bag

Heading off to the beach? This Japanese-inspired bento bag is perfect for all of your holiday accessories – or to sling over your shoulder when you go out shopping. Find out how to make a bento bag with our free beginner sewing pattern designed by Jennie Jones.

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2. Envelope clutch bag

While we've used a summery fabric here, you could easily choose a more seasonal design and take this clutch bag to a wedding or a festive party. Try Jennie Jones' wonderful sewing pattern and discover how to make an envelope clutch bag.

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3. Clasp purse

Keep your coins safe by sewing your own clasp purse! This easy sewing project would make a wonderful gift for a young child and it won't take you long to master the pattern. Follow Jessica Entwistle's sewing tutorial to learn how to make a clasp purse.

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4. Japanese knot bag

This adorable Japanese knot bag pattern designed by Shikira Alleyne-Samuel is perfect for carrying your shopping (or anything else you like!). It's both pretty and practical.

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2 bonus beginner sewing patterns!

1. DIY heat packs

If you're new to sewing, making a DIY heat pack is a great way to practice some basic sewing techniques and familiarise yourself with your sewing machine. Plus they'll keep your hands warm in cold weather! Learn how to make your own DIY heat pack.

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2. Fabric necklace

New to sewing? This easy sewing project is a great way to use up any fabric scraps and transform them into a stunning accessory. Learn how to make a fabric necklace with Anna Alicia's step-by-step guide.

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Make your own clothes with our sewing patterns for beginners

If you're new to sewing, making your own clothes and accessories can feel intimidating, but luckily there are lots of fantastic patterns and tutorials for beginners out there.

You'll soon learn how to stitch everything from skirts to t-shirts with our favourite beginner sewing patterns!

Get started with the best sewing machines for beginners

Choosing the right sewing machine can make your crafting much easier, especially if you're a complete novice.

We've reviewed some of the best sewing machines for beginners to help you make an informed decision.

36 best sewing patterns for beginners (2024)

FAQs

What is the best pattern company for beginners? ›

One of the 'Big 4' pattern companies (Butterick, McCall's, Simplicity, and Vogue), Butterick patterns are a solid place for beginners to hone their craft. I like this swing dress pattern because it is a fast and easy sewing pattern.

Who are the Big 4 sewing patterns? ›

“The Big 4” – Including McCall's, Vogue, Butterick, and Know Me Patterns collectively under brand Something Delightful. Simplicity Patterns.

What is the easiest item of clothing to sew? ›

Knits are a popular choice for beginners – take a look at the selection of knit dress patterns for beginners here. From Tilly and the Buttons is a simple to make pull-on dress with scoop neckline and elasticated waistline. The plain skirt version is perfect for those new to sewing.

What should I start sewing first? ›

One of the first things most sewers will learn to make is something simple like a cushion cover. This is a great project to try, because it allows you to practice basic sewing skills and whip up your first pattern very quickly.

What is the most difficult thing to sew? ›

In sharp contrast to leather, sheer fabrics like chiffon, georgette, voile, organdy, and organza are tricky to work with because they're so soft and delicate. They tend to fray and can easily be ripped with rough handling.

What are indie sewing patterns? ›

An Indie pattern is a sewing pattern made by an individual or a small company and not by the large corporations and companies that sell their patterns in big box stores (like Simplicity or Vogue). Basically, an Indie designer is someone that operates on a smaller scale than the big companies.

Do simplicity patterns still exist? ›

Established in 1927 by Joseph Shapiro, Simplicity patterns are now sold in over 60 countries, producing around 250 sewing patterns per year, through the in-house design team, and in collaboration with talented independent pattern designers.

How do I choose a brand pattern? ›

The best way to choose your pattern is to start your whole brand-building process with a brand strategy. Know who your audience is, attach a personality to your brand and communicate to them visually. One way to do this is to design the graphical elements to represent your brand message.

What is the golden rule sewing patterns system? ›

The Sewing Patterns System “The Golden Rule” includes 280 sewing patterns, written instruction, sewing hints, a tool set and a cardboard tailors curve. The tool set includes the special tape measure with sizing scale, a pen, 2 pins and a roll of adhesive tape.

Is Butterick patterns still in business? ›

In 2001, The McCall Pattern Company acquired Butterick and Vogue Patterns, and it still continued printing and marketing sewing patterns in and under all three lines as of the middle of February 2016.

What is the simplest sewing technique? ›

The running stitch is the most basic and commonly used, in which the needle and thread simply pass over and under two pieces of fabric. It's the same as a basting stitch, except it is sewn more tightly to create a secure and permanent bind.

How much should a beginner spend on a sewing machine? ›

Magicfly Mini Sewing Machine is a compact and portable sewing machine that caters to beginners looking for an affordable option. Priced under $50, this machine offers the unique convenience of running on AA batteries, eliminating the need for an electrical outlet and making it ideal for on-the-go sewing projects.

Is sewing an expensive hobby? ›

Fabric is generally not cheap, and unfortunately you can often buy readymade clothes for less money than what just the materials would cost you, which means that sewing is not usually a money-saving exercise in itself. I think this is a real shame, but that's life!

Can I teach myself sewing? ›

Yes you can learn to sew online. However I think you will advance quicker if you are able to take at least a few in person sewing lessons or a quick demo by a sewing friend, especially when it comes to pattern making, fitting and tailoring techniques.

What should one look for when trying to recognize a pattern? ›

In summary, when trying to recognize a pattern, pay attention to series of numbers, various shapes, and any repetition or sequence in colors or events. By analyzing these elements, you can identify and understand patterns more effectively.

What type of sewing is best for beginners? ›

If you're just starting out, I personally recommend looking for a mechanical (versus a computerized) sewing machine that has only the basics. Ideally, your beginner sewing machine will have a straight stitch presser foot, a buttonhole presser foot, and a zipper foot, too.

Which is the most basic stitch that beginners should start with? ›

1. The Running Stitch. This stitch is the most basic of all the hand sewing stitches and if you have any experience with sewing at all, you likely already know how to perform this stitch. It's a great stitch to know for quickly mending clothing.

What is a basic sewing pattern? ›

A sewing pattern, in simple terms, is a set of templates or instructions employed for developing a specific garment. These can be paper or digital templates for each pattern piece and written instructions. It acts as a guide for the user across the process of cutting and assembling the fabric pieces.

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