Free Sewing Patterns for Beginners: Printable PDFs and Where to Find More

Paper sewing patterns used to cost more than the fabric. Now you can download patterns as PDFs and print them at home, and lots of them are free. Here are my own free beginner patterns, plus the best places to find more.

My free printable patterns

These are the patterns I use in Nanna Betty Sewing School. Each one prints on A4 paper at home, and each has a free sewing card with a short video to show you how. Every make takes 2 hours or less.

• Tote bag: pattern (PDF) and sewing card
• Coasters: pattern (PDF) and sewing card
• Cushion cover: pattern (PDF) and sewing card
• Drawstring bag: pattern (PDF) and sewing card
• Scrunchies: pattern (PDF) and sewing card
• Eye mask: pattern (PDF) and sewing card
• Pyjama trousers (UK 8 to 22): pattern (PDF) and sewing card

How to print a PDF sewing pattern

1. In the print settings, choose 100% or “actual size”. Never choose “fit to page”, or your pattern will shrink.
2. If the pattern has a test square, measure it with a ruler before you cut anything.
3. Tape the pages together, lining up the edges and any markings.
4. Cut out your pattern pieces with paper scissors, not your fabric scissors.

New to patterns? My Patterns card explains the markings.

More free sewing patterns

For bags, cushions, gifts and accessories, these sites have plenty of free patterns:

• So Sew Easy
• Apple Green Cottage
• Sew Mag
• Threads Monthly
• Mood Fabrics
• Peppermint Sewing School (free clothing patterns)

Looking for clothes? I’ve picked out the best free clothing patterns in sewing clothes for beginners.

Where to buy sewing patterns

The big pattern brands, Vogue, Butterick, McCall’s and Simplicity, have a pattern for almost everything. Their sizes are smaller than shop sizes, so always choose your size from your own measurements.

Independent designers often have modern fits and very clear instructions. Try Tilly and the Buttons, Sew Over It and Merchant & Mills.

UK shops with a big range of patterns include The Foldline, Sew Direct, Sew Essential and Jaycotts.

How to choose a beginner pattern

• Look for “beginner” or “easy” on the front.
• Choose a pattern with only a few pieces.
• Skip zips and buttons for your first few makes.
• Check the suggested fabrics. Cotton is the easiest to start with.

Want everything in one box? Read about sewing kits for adults.

Learn to sew with Nanna Betty

Nanna Betty Sewing School teaches you one skill at a time, with simple sewing cards and short videos for your phone. Every make takes 2 hours or less, and it’s all free.

Start sewing, it’s free