Picking the right pattern is important when you are a beginner. Although I’m not saying you shouldn’t take risks and think bold, often if you chose to make something beyond your skill level and fail, it can make you sad and sewing is something you are choosing to do because you want to have fun, right?
Here is a list of patterns I think are great for beginners. If you are reading this and think I have omitted something, I encourage you to please share your suggestions in the comments section. Two heads are better than one, after all.
I personally really like using patterns created by independent designers. Why? Well, there are a couple of reasons. First, with the $$ I spend going directly to the person that did the hard work rather than to bolstering the profits of a large corporation, it fits in with my general philosophy of how I prefer to spend my money. Secondly, the independent pattern designers are very accessible. They often have websites or blogs, conduct sewalongs for many of their patterns and are ready, willing and happy to answer questions or queries you may have. Third, they also often have Flickr groups where customers can share what they have made and you get to see the finished item in hundreds of different ways. Finally, and this is just my opinion, the independent designers produce patterns that are amazing and very well thought out. The sewing directions are clearer and often better illustrated than commercially produced ones AND many designers offer one or two downloadable, print-at-home patterns which suits my impatient nature.
Here is my best beginner’s sewing patterns list.
Sewaholic Tasia is based in Vancouver Canada and although her range of patterns is small (but growing!) she has an excellent website with a wealth of information and very helpful sew tips. She is clearly an excellent seamstress who is very generous in sharing her knowledge and advice. She has hosted sew-alongs for most of her patterns, which are an invaluable resource for a beginner. Sewing one of her patterns will really improve your sewing skills. You can see my version of her Crescent Skirt by clicking here.
Colette Patterns – Beautiful clothing patterns with a large range of designs and a fantastic website FULL of many useful resources, sewing tips and techniques. As well as producing gorgeous patterns (seriously, you need to see these things…) their instructions are extremely clear and very well written. You can see my Jasmine blouse by clicking here and my Sorbetto (which is a free download!) here and here.
Jamie Christina Designs – A nice range of patterns including several aprons and accessories for those interested in making non-clothing items. She also has quite a few tutorials and freebies. You can see my Miz Mozelle dress here and here.