Want to become a better sewist faster? Sew with commercial patterns.
Sewing and patternmaking are two very different skillsets. While sewing requires dexterity, understanding of fabrics and experience with construction techniques, one can sew for a lifetime without learning the mathematical work of patternmaking.
When you buy a sewing pattern, you’re skipping the tedious drafting that goes into transforming flat fabric to fit around a curvy body. Patterns give you a template for cutting plus step-by-step guides for how to sew it all together. Garment creation is faster, but you still get to express your creativity in the design by choosing your own fabric, notions and finishes. Sewing patterns are the ultimate cheat code for a handmade wardrobe.
Sewing patterns were first published in magazines in the 1700s and patterns as we know them today, printed on paper with graded sizes, launched in 1863 with The Butterick Company. In the decades since, many companies have emerged that offer different sewing patterns and formats. There are many options to choose from:
- Printed vs. digital download
- Tissue paper vs. large format paper
- Pattern magazine vs. individual pattern
- Graded vs. single-size
- Big Four (corporations) vs. independent designers
The options are now delightfully endless! Perhaps even overwhelming. That’s why I’ve listed some of my favorite sewing pattern sources to help with you choose.
Major Pattern Companies:
- “The Big 4” – Including McCall’s, Vogue, Butterick, and Know Me Patterns collectively under brand Something Delightful
- Simplicity Patterns
- Just Patterns
- Anna Allen Patterns
- Friday Pattern Co
- True Bias
- Closet Core Patterns
- Megan Nielsen
- Helen’s Closet
- VikiSews
- Cashmerette – Designed for larger busts
- Edgewater Ave – Swimwear
- Peppermint Magazine – Free patterns
Independent Pattern Designers:
- Styles InSeams – Yes, I sell patterns!
- Paradise Patterns
- Staystitch Pattern Co.
- J Desiree Studio
- Lydia Naomi Studio
- Daria Patternmaking
What to watch out for when buying sewing patterns:
- Pattern sizing can be different between brands. Always check size charts before buying a size range.
- Different brands use different blocks. You may need different pattern alterations to get your desired fit.
- Woven vs. knits. Always check what fabric is required for a project before choosing a pattern.
- Check Instagram for styling ideas. Most patterns have a dedicated #hashtag to collect different makes of a sewing pattern.
- Google pattern reviews. Many sewing bloggers, like me, write reviews to help you understand the quality and quirks of a sewing pattern. Know before you buy!
I hope this guide will help you expand your sewing possibilities
Need more help for sewing with commercial patterns? Take my class on sewing with patterns on Skillshare!
Happy sewing!