ZERO WASTE SEWING PATTERNS

May 25, 2024

Kate Underdown February 11, 2023

Have you discovered zero-waste sewing yet? It has been a hot topic with sewists for some time now, with loads of stitchers giving it a go to see what all the fuss is about.

So, what is zero waste pattern cutting? Well, it’s a bit like a puzzle that strategically plans your pattern pieces, so every bit of fabric is used. You draw your pattern pieces directly onto your fabric, following a cutting plan and templates instead of using printed pattern pieces, resulting in less fabric and paper waste. It’s great for anyone who feels frustrated with the build-up of inevitable fabric scraps and is ideal if you have a stunning length of fabric you want to make the most of.

Zero-waste sewing has several advantages:

1. More flexibility. This method allows for easy changes, such as using different fabric widths and making simple fit and design changes yourself. Using patterns that fit into a zero-waste square or rectangular block is a very efficient way to work. It means it is easier to patchwork together remnants or use leftover fabrics you already have lying around.

2. An easy way to learn to self-draft your own patterns. Working this way will help you to start building a toolbox of skills, and you will learn an alternative method of self-drafting, which is super easy for beginners to understand.

3. Less fabric and paper waste!

We have two designers in the shop who design zero and low waste patterns, so let's dive in, shall we?

BIRGITTA HELMERSSON

Birgitta Helmersson designs and develops sewing patterns and clothing exclusively using zero-waste pattern cutting, which means no fabric is wasted in the cutting and sewing process. Birgitta has a shop in Malmö, Sweden, that sells small batches of the designs, using natural and re-purposed fabrics. They are great examples of how you can repurpose pre-loved pieces of fabric you have around the home or picked up from charity shops.

Sizing - Usually broken into one size or sizes 1 and 2 (approx up to a UK 24).

Patterns - Patternless except or a few curved templates (supplied if the pattern requires).

If you are new to zero waste sewing, why not start your journey with a bestseller?

If you fancy a project with a little more to sink your teeth into, a coat or jacket is the way to go. A zero-waste pattern could be a great option if you have a vintage blanket you want to chop up and transform into a coat.

Tops are one of the most popular items to sew as they go with so many things in your existing wardrobe, not to mention they usually require less fabric, so can be more budget friendly.

BROWSE MORE BIRGITTA HELMERSSON ZERO WASTE SEWING PATTERNS

CRIS WOOD

Cris Wood Sews is for sewists who want to replace size charts and paper pattern pieces with size inclusiveness and sustainability.

The garments are made up using only squares and rectangles. In this way, each pattern piece can be sized to your specific and unique measurements – without paper pattern pieces. There is nothing to print, cut or tape. The piece shapes are drawn directly onto your fabric, and the layouts maximise fabric usage.

The patterns are excellent for beginners and confident beginners because they use only straight seams and don't require any closures like buttons or zips.

Creating custom garments while reducing waste sounds pretty great, doesn't it?

Sizing: Custom to your measurements.

Patterns: Patternless - measurements are drawn directly onto your fabric.