The Shortlist: easy sewing patterns
Sometimes we just need a simple sew… am I right? Something you can make in an afternoon or over a couple of evenings, to scratch the sewing itch. These don’t have to be boring basics there are some incredible simple sewing patterns out there with really interesting features. But where to start looking for them? Fear not my friends I’ve collated some absolute beauties for you. If you are new to sewing then don’t be put off these patterns are great for beginners too – they might just take you a little longer to sew. Right, shall we get started?
You cannot beat a good dress, make one item and you have an entire outfit.
1: Stevie Tunic from Tilly and the Buttons: this simple dress features grown-on sleeves & can also be made into a top. Make sure that you check out this pattern as the detail is on the back of the dress…
2: Leana Caftan from Bara Studio: loose sleeves, an elasticated waist, and a dramatic slit at the front. Perfect for summer holidays.
3: Cuff Dress from The Assembly Line: I LOVE this pattern. Two very simple details make the dress. The elastic on the cuff gives great shape to the sleeve and a simple sewn channel at the waist adds shaping.
4: Kielo Wrap Dress and Jumpsuit from Named: The OG of the sewing pattern world.. don’t believe me then go check out the hashtag on Instagram. Made up of minimal pattern pieces the wrap features on this dress is still a delight after all these years.
5: Reynolds Top and Dress from Helen’s Closet: A wardrobe staple you’ll reach for again and again each summer. Shaping over the bust and a loose fit over the waist makes it super comfortable and the square neckline makes it bang on trend.
All of these tops are items I’d like to have in my wardrobe. Simple to make but all with an interesting detail or silhouette.
1: Collage Gather Top from Matchy Matchy Sewing Club: go have a look at the line drawing of this bad boy and you’ll be lusting after it too. Two sleeve options and some lovely gathered panels at the side give it a roomy fit and elegant feel.
2: Myka Top sewing pattern from Tessuti Fabrics: this is SUPER simple to sew, and features raglan sleeves which are much easier to sew in than a normal sleeve. If you love an oversized t-shirt then this is for you. They’ve managed to get the proportions of this bang on, so that it’s boxy but doesn’t drown you.
3: Victory Tank from Chalk and Notch: The double strap detail on this top makes it really special and it comes with bust cup options too. What’s not to like?
4: Brigit Tee from Pattern Scout: the square neckline on this top is so on trend, it’s an elevated wardrobe staple that you’ll reach for again and again.
5: Block Tee from Paper Theory Patterns: There isn’t a huge range of woven t-shirt patterns and this one has the most amazing seam lines.
6: Tarifa Tee from French Navy: Another great basic you need in your life and check out the sleeves on this. A perfect pattern for playing around with directional prints.
A satisfying sew that’ll keep you cozy..
1: Simpson Sweatshirt from Style Arc: this oversized sweatshirt has a really interesting seam line down the front of the top alongside a massive statement pocket and dropped shoulders.
2: Gabriela Bodywarmer from Fibre Mood: not only is this a super speedy make it’s also great for scrap busting. The edge is finished with bias tape and there are optional patch pockets you can add too.
3: Marlo Sweater sewing pattern from True Bias: this pattern has become a cult classic in the sewing community. With perfect proportions, this cropped version looks as good over jeans as it does a dress.
4: Jarrah Sweater sewing pattern from Megan Nielsen: we love this tie detail at the hem of the jumper. It’s a really add on the the pattern pieces that really elovated this jumper.
5: Granite Sweatshirt from Maison Fauve: it’s all about the sleeve on this boxy jumper.. with four big pleats at the cuff.
If you think that a jacket doesn’t classify as a simple sew then be prepared to have your mind blown!
1: Nelly Coat from JULIANA MARTEJEVS: the jacket pattern is completely hand sewn.. so there is no need for a sewing machine! Perfect if you like to do a project in front of the TV.
2: Hovea Jacket and Coat from Megan Nielsen: I couldn’t resist adding one quilted jacket. I really love the range of variations this one has on offer.
3: Pona Jacket from Helen’s Closet: this unlined jacket has a nod to a trench coat without any of the stress of making one! There are no fastenings and simple patch pockets.
4: Solvi Jacket from Vanessa Hansen: we liked that this can be worn as a jacket or cardigan depending on your preference. Make it in boiled wool and you won’t have to finish the edges.
5: Pekka Jacket from Ready to Sew: this oversized mid-season jacket has pockets so big that you won’t need a handbag when you wear it.
A lot of new makers have been put off making bottoms but fear not these patterns are perfect for beginners and for those who hate a lot of fitting then these are for you.
1: Mathilde Skirt from Merchant & Mills: This simple skirt features a statement elasticated waist. There are different pocket options including these fantastic oversized ones above.
2: Pietra Pants and Shorts from Closet Core Patterns: these clever trousers are flat-fronted with elastic at the back of the trouser. So you get the look of tailored trousers with the comfort of elastic. There are three leg options to choose from too.
3: Rani Skirt from Tammy Handmade: choose from a long version with side slits or a shorter version with a frill. This is a skirt you’ll look forward to wearing each summer.
4: Saguaro Set from Friday Pattern Company: this is actually a two-piece set! Simple in construction with a drawstring waist and wide legs making the fitting of this a breeze.
5: Katya Skirt from Lenaline Patterns: This simple apron-style wrap skirt has a dart at the waist both front and back. There is a hidden button to hold the skirt in place so it won’t open by accident!
