Hooray!! Welcome to the beginner sewing patterns update! In the original post, I mentioned sewing simple garments with few pieces, easy techniques, and fabric that isn’t fussy—While that is a good approach, I realize that many people join the craft with different skill sets and levels of expertise. So whether you want to start simple or more challenging, there are tips and pattern suggestions for you. Whichever method works for you, we’ve got you covered.
Starting with a simple garment means building the foundation needed for garment construction. Free sewing patterns, like our Mood Basics, are a good starting point. Our patterns provide the information you need to get through the project. Whether the pattern is free or purchased it’s important to choose a pattern that is easy to read. It will be a lot less frustrating to work through. This is where the challenge seekers shine. If you understand the instructions, then you can continue choosing more challenging patterns at the pace that works best for you.
Now onto the patterns:
Below are patterns perfect for beginners at all levels: Pick a pattern that appeals to you.
Zea Blazer
Difficulty Level: 3, beginner to slightly intermediate
This is for the trendy beginner who is sewing for a challenge. The Zea Blazer includes a lining, collar, and set-in sleeves.
Elowen Shawl
Difficulty Level: 1, beginner
Make this shawl as simple or challenging as you like. You choose whether you want to sew, add a lining, or not.
Fleur Robe
Difficulty Level: 2, beginner
This project is free of closures and uses organic linen woven, which isn’t too tricky to manage. If you desire a terry cloth robe, working with that fabric can be a challenge, so check out our tips for sewing with terry cloth to make the process easier
Oliver Jumpsuit
Difficulty Level: 2, beginner
The fit of this garment is very forgiving, so it’s perfect for a beginner project. There are a few bands, straps, and buttons to create and attach. Buttons are a good way to introduce closures into your garments.
Fern Jumpsuit
Difficulty Level: 3, beginner to slightly intermediate
Another pattern that has a very adaptable shape is the fern jumpsuit. For a bit of challenge, this garment has button accents at the ankles, pleats, and a waistband with a buckle, for cinching. These techniques are ideal for those who’ve already mastered the basics of construction.
Dogwood Ensemble
Difficulty Level: 3, beginner to slightly intermediate
Now, we’re getting to the good stuff. The Dogwood Ensemble has a very simple silhouette with a fitted look that features a few advanced techniques. This pattern uses French seams, darts, and an invisible zipper. Zippers take time but aren’t difficult to apply.
Biker Short Set
Difficulty Level: 2, beginner
This set is relatively simple to construct. It does use elastic for the waistband and stretch fabric which can be difficult to manage when pinning and sewing.
Aspen Skirt
Difficulty Level: 2, beginner
While this is an ensemble, I want to highlight the aspen skirt for this post. The skirt requires a zipper, a waistband, and a lining depending on the chosen fabric. Simple silhouettes are a great starting point for experimenting with closures and other techniques beyond the basics.
Wilder Top
Difficulty Level: 1, beginner
Learn to use elastic with this basic sewing pattern. The rest is low fuss, and there are no pesky closures. What’s more, with this trendy garment, you’ll have something that looks way more intricate than it is.
Brando Tee
Difficulty Level: 1, beginner
A basic tee is a necessity and a great starting point for beginners. There are no closures, and it offers practice working with sleeves and neckbands. Choose a fabric that works for your sewing comfortability.
Bixa Sweatshirt
Difficulty Level: 2, beginner
Besides making a neck binding for this redux of the Bixa Sweatshirt, the silhouette and fit are quite simple. The design is great for beginners. Choose a fabric that works for your skill level.
Sylvan Tank Dress
Difficulty Level: 1, beginner
Another sewing option with stretch fabric is the Sylvan Tank Dress. This pattern doesn’t have sleeves and only has a few pieces. Test your skills with trickier fabrics on a simple silhouette like this one.
Just over one year later, and we’ve already added so many great patterns to this list. This time around there’s more variety for the beginner to choose from. In a comment below, tell me what inspires you to sew.
Very interesting