Are you wanting to start making your clothes, to save money, or to be more environmentally conscious? Using some of the best sewing patterns out there can help you do just that! There are not many people sewing their clothes anymore, but in the last decade or so, there have been more and more people wanting to try their hand at sewing their clothes, or home decor. Especially since the pandemic started, people have been broadening their horizons and exploring what they can make with their hands.
If you are only thinking about the possibility of sewing your clothes but not sure if you want to take on the task, here are a couple of reasons it would be more than worth it to tackle sewing clothes! First, you can make your wardrobe be what you want it to be! Not what some big fashion company is telling you what fashion is and is not. By sewing and using the best sewing patterns, you have the freedom to create and grow in confidence. All of the best sewing patterns promise a brand new, beautiful piece of clothing that is unique to you. No one else will have that exact piece.
How Many Pieces?
Typically, the more pieces to the pattern the more difficult it is going to be. There are more intersections, pieces to cut, then sew together. Before you purchase a sewing pattern, read the description as thoroughly as possible and pay close attention to the line drawing- this will give you a good idea of what to expect before you even make a purchase. All of the best sewing patterns should have some sort of drawing on the front showing you the seams or darts that way you can see how many you are dealing with.
Look for Closure:
Pay attention to the words in the description. Some words to keep an eye out for are “pull-on” or “slip-over” or “pull-over”. These words indicate that once the piece is made, you can simply pull it on or slip it over, simple as that. Zippers and buttons can be easy to do now and then but if you are a new sewer, you should be focusing more on cutting accurate pieces and sewing straight lines, not worrying about inserting a zipper or button.
What’s the Difficulty Rating?
The difficulty level of the pattern is specific to the company of the pattern. A beginner pattern for one company may be considered moderate for another, and vice-versa. This being said, don’t always just trust and go with the first pattern that says “beginner”, you should look more at the line drawings, or the pattern itself. Look for how many pieces there are, how many seams are you going to have to sew? What are the closures like? Are there zippers, or a lot of buttons, or even both? In summary, use your best judgment, don’t always trust that a “beginner” pattern won’t have buttons and zippers.
Consider the Type of Fabric:
Clothing that is made to be stable and woven is easier than clothing that is designed to be draped and have to stretch to it. This is because the fabric type is different. When purchasing a sewing pattern, look to see what type of fabric it is calling for. Some keywords to look out for would be, “medium weight weaved fabric” or “quilt weight cotton” or “chambray”. If you are new to sewing you would want to avoid patterns that call for silk or stretch knit fabrics, unless you want to take on the challenge right off the bat!
Top 10 Best Sewing Patterns
Now that you know what to look for when purchasing one of the best sewing patterns, you are ready to purchase one and fire up your sewing machine and get to work. Here are some of our top picks for the best sewing patterns.
| Image | Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Betty Woven Tunic | Customer Ratings: 4.9 out of 5Brand: Style Arc | Check On Amazon |
 | Tully Pant | Customer Ratings: 4.9 out of 5Brand: Style Arc | Check On Amazon |
 | New Look Sewing Pattern 6871 | Customer Ratings: 4.7 out of 5Brand: Simplicity | Check On Amazon |
 | 1970’s Vintage Fashion Dress Pattern | Customer Ratings: 4.7 out of 5Brand: Simplicity | Check On Amazon |
 | Matching Sets for Misses, Child, and Doll Jumpsuit and Maxi Dress | Customer Ratings: 4.7 out of 5Brand: Simplicity | Check On Amazon |
 | Men’s Robe and Pajama Sewing Pattern | Customer Ratings: 4.6 out of 5Brand: Simplicity | Check On Amazon |
 | Wide Leg Pants, Shorts, and Maxi Skirt Patterns | Customer Ratings: 4.5 out of 5Brand: Simplicity | Check On Amazon |
 | Toddler Nightgowns | Customer Ratings: 4.5 out of 5Brand: Kwik Sew Patterns | Check On Amazon |
 | Men and Boy’s Shirt, Boxer, Short, and Tie Sewing Patterns | Customer Ratings: 4.4 out of 5Brand: Simplicity | Check On Amazon |
 | Joni Knit Track Pants | Customer Ratings: 4.3 out of 5Brand: Style Arc | Check On Amazon |
Best Sewing Pattern Reviews 2022
1. Betty Woven Tunic
This sewing pattern for the Style Arc Betty Woven Tunic features side splits and an extended shoulder line. This pattern includes sizes 4-16 and each size comes in different colors so you do not get the different sizes confused. If sizes 4-16 do not work for you or your need, do not worry! There is also another set of the exact same pattern but in plus sizes, 18-30, for purchase as well! Style Arc has rated this pattern as being easy on their difficulty scale. Basic instructions written in English are included with the pattern as well!
Pros
- Trendy and cute
- Considered as an easy pattern
- Variety of sizes
Cons
- Only get the sizes you pay for
- Reviews say the instructions could be written better
2. Tully Pant
This sewing pattern by Style Arc is for a ⅞ length pant with a pleated “paper bag” elastic waist. This pattern comes with sizes 4-16 and each size is a different color that way you do not have to worry about getting the sizes all mixed up. If you are looking for larger sizes, you can purchase the same pattern but in sizes 18-30! The brand considers this pattern to be a little more difficult but not challenging.
This would be a good pattern for someone to take on when they are starting to get the hang of sewing and want to try to shoot for something with more challenge to it. Fabrics that are suggested for this pattern are linens, silk, fine wool, or crepe.
Pros
- Trendy and cute
- Lots of size options
- Customers love the results
Cons
- The length can be too short for some
- Is more difficult than other pant patterns
3. New Look Sewing Pattern 6871
This pattern has different styles of tops that are either a tunic or a pullover with different options for the sleeves, neckline, and bodice. This pattern set is made by the brand Simplicity Group which is most known for its simple designs that are great options for those who are just learning or getting into the groove of sewing. Instructions for the pattern comes in English, Spanish, and French. The brand suggests fabrics such as cotton blends, lightweight linen, and linen blends for this set of patterns.
Customer reviews of this pattern talk about how they love the cut of the tops. Customers also say that it is an easy-to-use pattern and the tops came out beautiful!
Pros
- Easy to use and understand
- Includes 5 different styles
- A variety of fabrics can be used
Cons
- Reviews come back talking about odd proportions
- Reviews also say it is not ideal for cotton unlike the brand suggests
4. 1970’s Vintage Fashion Dress Pattern
The ’70s are coming back! This 1970’s dress pattern is just beautiful. You can make it as simple or flashy as you want based on the type of fabric you choose to work with. With this pattern, you can create your vintage-looking piece to add to your closet and stand out. The pattern works for sizes 14-22 and the dresses can be made in two different lengths and with two different options for sleeves. The possibilities are endless with this pattern!
The pattern includes four different sewing templates for different dresses and sizing guides. The included instructions will walk you through how to make your vintage dress with a waist tie as well!
Pros
- 100% unique
- The pattern is easy to follow (per customer reviews)
- Customers love their results
Cons
- The 70’s vintage style is not for everyone
- Sizing can vary based on body type
5. Matching Sets for Misses, Child, and Doll Jumpsuit and Maxi Dress
This pattern is the most adorable little pattern you could find! The pattern includes templates and sizing guides for misses, children, and dolls with easy-to-follow instructions! The sizes for women are XS-Xl, for girls, it is 3-8, and the doll pattern can fit an 18in doll. With this pattern, you can match your little girl while she is matching with her best friend! Recommended fabrics for this project are cotton, chambray, and linen. But of course, whatever fabrics you are wanting to work with will be fine as well. The pattern comes with instructions in English, Spanish, and French.
Pros
- A great array of sizes
- Easy to follow the pattern
- So cute and trendy
Cons
- Customers have had issues with the minimal amount of instructions
- Sizes can always vary depending on body type
6. Men’s Robe and Pajama Sewing Pattern
This pattern includes templates for four different looks for you to choose from. Top and bottom options can be made to different lengths depending on personal preferences and what the weather is doing where you are located. The robe pattern includes a tie at the waist and pockets if those are wanted. The recommended fabrics for these projects are cotton, flannel, and broadcloth- again, it’s all on preference!
The great thing about this set of patterns is everything can be mixed and matched to the comfort of who is wearing them. These can be made in men’s sizes XS-XL. The pattern comes with instructions for sewing the templates together as well as for instructions for pockets, cutting, and hemming. The instructions were designed with beginners in mind!
Pros
- Can mix and match the templates
- Instructions made for beginners
- Customers are happy with their results
Cons
- Sizes can vary depending on body type- take measurements first to be sure they will fit
7. Wide Leg Pants, Shorts, and Maxi Skirt Patterns
This pattern includes three loose, wide-leg pants, two maxi skirts, and one loose shorts template for you to work with. Each item can be sewn into five different women’s sizes, 4,6,8,10,12. If these sizes do not work for you or what you need the pattern for, there is another option with the same patterns available for purchase that come in women’s sizes 12-20! The maxi skirt pattern has some versatility with it, you can make it floor or calf-length, just depending on your personal preference. It also has a waist tie!
The pants are designed to be loose and flowy, so fabrics like linen, cotton, or even a stretch jersey material would be ideal. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone with some patterned fabric! Just be sure that when you are sewing, everything is lined up perfectly along the seam!
Pros
- Customers love their finished product results
- Allows for versatility
- The pattern is easy to follow
Cons
- Some reviews suggest this pattern is not for beginners
- Customers believe the pattern is not well made
8. Toddler Nightgowns
This pattern is to make the most adorable little nightgowns for the little toddler in your life! Sizes from 1T up to 4T are included with this one. The suggested fabrics for this pattern are light to medium weight weaved fabrics and firm knit fabrics. So in other words, something like cotton or flannel would be ideal for this pattern. You want to pick something that will be comfortable and cozy for a toddler to sleep in. The front and back of the pattern will be gathered at the yoke of the gown.
When you’re done with the nightgown, although it is not in the pattern itself, if you want, add a lace trim to the neckline or collar, the sleeves, or the trim of the gown. No doubt your little one will just love the nightgown you make them!!
Pros
- Reviews have come back saying it was an easy pattern to follow
- Includes a good range of sizes
- Allows for you to make it your own with the lace trims
Cons
- Sizes may vary per child
- A lined top is not part of the pattern
9. Men and Boy’s Shirt, Boxer, Short, and Tie Sewing Patterns
Now we can’t forget about the gentlemen! This pattern includes 4 easy to sew templates to make the necessities for any little boy or man in your life! The outfit includes shirts, boxers, shorts, and ties for both all ages. The sizes range from S to XL, although you may want to take basic measurements beforehand because everyone is built differently and we all know how quickly young boys can grow! These patterns are more than suitable for casual wear or the outdoors. This pattern by Simplicity is most ideal for creating matching looks for fathers and sons. Get ready for the best family photos!
Pros
- Variety of sizes
- Includes 4 sewing patterns
- Can create coordinating outfits
Cons
- Reviews have said this is not ideal for beginners
- For little boys, and large men (per customers review)
- Should take measurements beforehand
10. Joni Knit Track Pants
This sewing pattern for track pants is just so cute!! The track pants are designed with a slightly dropped crotch and a curved leg seam. The pants can be made in sizes 4 to 16, and each pattern is in a different color so you do not get the sizes confused. This pattern may be a little more challenging than other options, the brand considers it to be a medium level of difficulty. But with the English written instructions that come with the patterns, you should be able to tackle this one head-on.
Pros
- Comes with different size options that are clearly labeled
- Very cute and trendy design
Cons
- Per reviews: the instructions could be written better
- Only sizes 4-16 included, anything bigger or small would have to be measured out
Conclusion
Anyone can sew, especially if they have one of the best sewing patterns by their side, they can tackle anything! Just remember, if you are a beginner, it is ok to take things slow and take your time to learn the ropes and not jump into something crazy! Hopefully, this list of the best sewing patterns will give you ideas for what your first or next project will be! Happy sewing!