Free Tees

Who doesn’t love something for free? Here’s 10 free knit tee sewing patterns all rounded up for you!

Hemlock Tee

The Hemlock Tee from Grainline goes up to 154.9cm (61″) hip

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

Plantain T-Shirt

The Plantain T-Shirt from Deer and Doe is a personal favourite of mine!

Available up to 152.4cm (60″) hip

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

Core T-Shirt

The Core T-shirt from Closet Core is free to email newsletter subscribers.

Available up to 160cm (63″) hip

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

Jesse Tee

The Jesse Tee from True Bias is a free pattern that you can access when you sign up for their email newsletter.

Available up to 156cm (61.5″) hip

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

Anything But Basic Tee

The ABBTee from Cooper Creek Patterns is available up to 170cm (67″) hip

Basic Instinct Tee

The Basic Instinct Tee from Secondo Piano is a free pattern that you can access when you sign up to her email newsletter.

Available up to a 42.5″ (108cm) bust and 45.5″ (115cm) hip

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

Vera Knit Top

The Vera Knit Top from NZ-based Forget Me Not Patterns is an elevated top for t-shirt fabrics.

This pay-what-you-can pattern is available up to 153cm (60.5″) hip

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

Daisy Top

Another elevated knit top, the Daisy Top from Mood Fabrics is available up to 160cm (63″) hip

Wanderlust Tee

The Wanderlust Tee from Fancy Tiger Crafts is available for free when you sign up to a free week-long trial for Craftsy.

Also grab the Shirt No 2 from Sonya Phillips from Craftsy if you sign up for a trial!

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

Monroe Turtleneck

The Monroe Turtleneck pattern is a free knit tshirt pattern from Tessuti available from XXS-XXL

Want to get printing?

Email your PDF pattern files through to hello@chchsews.com to get started. A0 printing is $6 per sheet.

Loungeables

There’s something about this time of the year that makes me want new PJs- I’m not sure if it’s about presentable sleepwear for Christmas day, or if it’s so I can enter the new year fresh and crisp?

Whatever the reason, I’ve got a need for presentable loungeable sleepwear, and I’m clearly going to be sewing it!

The Fifey PJs

Named for the M&B greyhound mascot (and his favourite activity), the Fifey PJs are knit PJs.

To celebrate their launch there’s 15% off all M&B loungewear with code LOUNGETOWN

Gibson Loungewear

The Gibson Loungewear Set from In The Folds is a 2-piece set that can be made with an alternate dress view.

The Medlow Robe

Perfect for layering over your PJs or for layering over exactly nothing…. the Medlow Robe is perfect loungewear and perfect concert wear..?!

Save 15% on the Medlow Robe (and all M&B loungewear) with code LOUNGETOWN

Want more?

Luna Lounge Set

The Luna Lounge Set from Jennifer Lauren Handmade is a two-piece matching set that can be made in varying lengths.

Cal Pajama Set

The Cal Pajama Set from Seamwork has a racerback and fitted shorts with a faux fly

The Fran Pajamas

The Fran Pajamas are a recent release from Closet Core Patterns which are designed to be nightware that fits the ‘Pajamas as daywear’ vibe!

Nocture Pajamas

The Nocturne Pajamas from Sew Liberated is a two-piece set for woven fabrics that has long and short-sleeve options.

Free Pattern

The free Harlow Pajamas from Gertie’s Charm Patterns has been previously included in a roundup of free patterns but not in a PJs roundup.. So, here you go!

Kids Classic Pajamas

The aptly named Kids Classic Pajamas from Made by me patterns are pretty classic pajamas for kids

Free PJs

The Devin Pajamas are a free pattern from Fabrics Shop

The Mulberry Pajamas

The Mulberry Pajamas from Sewing and the City comes with shorts and pants options

Lara Loungewear

The Lara Loungewear Set from Swim Style Patterns- they don’t only do things to swim in!

Want to get printing?

Email your PDF pattern files through to hello@chchsews.com to get started. A0 printing is $6 per sheet.

Free giftable projects

It’s that time of year where I feel a need to compile lists of projects that I’ll likely never sew… But maybe I will!

Here are 12 free sewing patterns or free sewing tutorials which will leave you with a giftable product at the end! You can even gift them to yourself…

Free bucket hat pattern from Liam by Ruby

Wine tote

Perfect for summer picnics, the ChCh sews wine tote!

Free tote bag from Mood Sewciety

Free Lil’ pouch sewing pattern from Liam by Ruby

This is part of their series of scrapbusting patterns which are perfect for your fabric leftovers.

Free tutorial for reusable makeup remover squares

Scrap busting and also a sustainably minded gift? What could be better or easier!

The free Pear Pouch from Sarah Kirsten

Free mini fabric basket tutorial

Free soup bowl cosy tutorial

I have 2 of these and I’m surprised by the amount of use that they get! Even if I’m eating at the table, I use my cosy to protect my fingers on the way to the table!

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

Free Storage Boxes

Store your fabric in fabric with this free storage boxes tutorial from The Fabric Store.

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

Felt bag organiser from Mood Sewciety

Pie carrier

Need to transport food this summer? The ChCh sews pie carrier bag could be for you!

Want to get printing?

Email your PDF pattern files through to hello@chchsews.com to get started. A0 printing is $6 per sheet.

Sewing for the outdoors

You can love an indoor pursuit like sewing and also enjoy the great outdoors. But, you can also be an inside cat and sew for the folks in your life who love the outdoors! Are there some goodies in here that are perfect for gifting? Absolutely!

There’s a mix of free and paid patterns in here- if they’re free, it’s specifically stated!

Downpour Drybags

This drybag pattern from Sew Outdoors comes with 10 different sizes of dry bags!

This relatively new sewing pattern company even makes some great suggestions here on what outdoor accoutrements will fit into each size bag.

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

Wood Carrier

This Wood Carrier Pattern from Noodlehead looks like a very straightforward pattern where you can sink your teeth into hefty fabrics and webbings.

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

Cycling Hat

This free tutorial steps you through sewing a cycling hat

Activewear?

Are you (or are they) the kind of outdoors person who appreciates activewear? Checkout the roundup of Activewear Sewing Patterns on the blog, which also includes a list of some places where you can buy activewear and outdoors fabric in NZ.

The Stitchback LP

The Stitchback LP looks super outdoorsy but also looks like the kind of pattern which is just asking to be made from primary colours!

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

Fanny Pack

This free fanny pack comes from Bike Packing comes with pattern pieces for easy cutting out!

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

Camping Hammock

Pretty high up on the things I’d never though one could sew for themselves… is this free tutorial for a DIY camping hammock

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

Stitchback Chalk Bag

The Stitchback Chalk Bag is intended for climbing dust… but I see it and think ‘snacks’! Fill it full of dog treats for walkies, or snacks for yourself!

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

Running Armband Pocket

Grab the free running armband pocket from Fehr Trade!

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

Woodhaven Apron

The Woodhaven Apron from Thread Theory has lots of different options, including all the pocket shapes that bring the look of serious workwear.

Comfortable, yet rugged.

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

Helen’s Closet has a free apron pattern which you can access here.

Balaclava

This Balaclava pattern from Grasser (one of several different pattern options)

Camp Ditty Bag

This free Camp Ditty Bag Pattern gave such a goreous final product that it didn’t really matter that I had no idea what a ditty bag was for!

Apparently it’s a small bag for your personal effects and important bits (like if you’re a scout), and the idea is that you keep things in one place close at hand.

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

Trail wallet

This free trail wallet pattern is designed for carrying only the essentials!

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

Want to get printing?

Email your PDF pattern files through to hello@chchsews.com to get started. A0 printing is $6 per sheet.

Bags to sew

It’s the time of the year where I start to think about sewing projects for other people! So, in honour of that, here’s 10 bag patterns or free tutorials for you!

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

The Buckley Tote from Elbe Textiles

At $5, this bag is a bargain! Fully-lined with internal pockets, the great instructions make this perfect for a confident beginner.

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot
“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

The Portside Travel Set

Who can be mad at a matching travel set?

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

Free wrap pocket tote tutorial

This simple tote pattern uses bias tape to add a colourful edge around the bag

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

The Sandhill Sling

This cute sling bag is perfect for the daily commute or as a tidy travel bag.

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

Want to get printing?

Email your PDF pattern files through to hello@chchsews.com to get started. A0 printing is $6 per sheet.

Chore Jacket Patterns

Workwear Jackets, Chore Jackets, Artist Jackets! Hard-wearing jackets for working hard in (and not working hard in)! It’s handy to have big pockets to fill full of things (who doesn’t need a dedicated mask pocket), which will make up for the lack of pockets in so many of the clothes you don’t sew for yourself.

Without further rambling, a selection of Chore Jacket Sewing Patterns!

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

Cobden Chore Jacket

The Cobden from Muna and Broad is available up to a 162cm (64″) bust and 182cm (71.5″) hip

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

Free pattern roundup

Everyone loves a bargain and sometimes there’s some real winners! Here’s a roundup of free PDF sewing patterns, just for you.

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

Harlow Pajamas

The Harlow Pajamas from Charm Patterns x Gertie is a free PJs sewing pattern that comes in sizes 2-20 with A-H cup sizes

Want more PJs? Check out my sleepwear roundup!

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

The Lago Tank

The Lago Tank from Itch to Stitch is a free pattern which is available from sizes 00-20

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

Mariana Jacket

The Mariana Jacket is a free pattern from The Fabrics Store (different to NZ-based The Fabric Store).

Want more blazers? Check out my blazer roundup!

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

Frances Shirt

The Frances Shirt from Fibremood is a free pattern which is available from sizes XS-XXXL

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

Peppermint Jumpsuit

Do you remember when the free Peppermint Jumpsuit from In The Folds took over sewing instagram? I sure do!

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

Buyer beware

It’s always a good idea to research patterns before cutting into your good fabric, but especially free patterns! Sometimes you get exactly what you pay for! Check out the hashtags on instagram and do a quick google search (or check out a website like pattern review .com). Most of what I’ve included here are from established pattern designers, so it’s likely that you’ll be getting something that’s consistent with their paid releases.

Basic Instinct Tee

The Basic Instinct Tee from Secondo Piano is a free pattern that you can access when you sign up to her email newsletter.

Available up to a 42.5″ (108cm) bust and 45.5″ (115cm) hip

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

Wren Shirt

The free Wren Shirt Pattern from Mood Sewciety is just 1 of SO MANY free patterns on their website.

Want more shirts? You might want these blogs: ‘Shirts, shirts, shirts‘, ‘More shirts‘ and ‘shirts revisited

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

Monroe Turtleneck

The Monroe Turtleneck pattern is a free knit tshirt pattern from Tessuti available from XXS-XXL

If the sizing of the Monroe doesn’t include you, you might like this roundup up knit tops for winter layering!

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

Elemental Skirt

The Elemental Skirt from Sew House 7 is a free sewing pattern for a simple knit skirt.

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

Want more free patterns?

Mary Quant Dress

This free pattern from the V&A museum is available up to a 53″ hip

Want to get printing?

Email your files through to hello@chchsews.com to get started!

Lovely NZ Sewing Patterns

Love shopping & supporting local? Here’s another installment of patterns from NZ Sewing Pattern Designers!

Want more?

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

The Bowen Dress

The Bowen Dress is a free pattern which is available through Peppermint Magazine, but which was designed by the NZ-based designer of Hubba Ding Patterns.

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

The Viola Knit Top

The Viola Knit Top from North-Island-based Forget Me Not Patterns is available up to a 143cm or 56.5″ hip.

The pattern comes with two neckline options: collarless (which is a simpler sew), or an asymmetric collar and the sleeves come in three length options: three-quarter length, full length, and past the wrist.

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

The Kinfolk Dress

The new Kinfolk Dress from Jennifer Lauren Handmade (based in Dunedin) comes in A to F cups, sizes 6 to 34 (up to hip 159.5cm or 62 3/4″).

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

The Dulcie Boxer Briefs

The Dulcie Boxer Briefs are the latest pattern from Leila and me through Muna and Broad.

Designed as underwear and chub rub shorts, this pattern is available from 41.5-71.5″ (105-182cm) Hip but if the sizes are too small to include you, we’ll grade them up at no extra cost.

Perfect for wearing under dresses or even over tights!

“The Garden at Bougival” by Berthe Morisot

Gathered Top- Dress

The Gathered Top-Dress from Auckland-based Ford Wardrobe is a new-print sewing tutorial that steps you through drafting this dress or top for your own measurements.

“Villa with Orange Trees, Nice” by Berthe Morisot

Jess! Serious, what is this roundup? It’s winter and none of these are appropriate! All of these could be layered! Check out the Knit tops for winter layers blog.

Need more inspo?

The Dua Dress

The Dua Dress from Christchurch-based Makyla Creates has a stand collar which buttons closed at the left shoulder.

The pattern is available up to a 131cm or 51.5″ hip

The Rossi Wrap + Fredy Wrap Pattern

From NZ-based The Bold One, The Rossi Wrap + Fredy Wrap Pattern is a 2-in-1 pattern comes with HEAPS of options including necklines, sleeves and different height patterns depending on your particular measurements.

The Harley Dress Pattern

The Harley Dress Pattern from My Keeper Clothing comes in 2 size ranges, 6-14 – bust 80-100cm and 16-20 – 100-120cm.

Want to get printing?

Email your files through to hello@chchsews.com to get started!

Storm flaps

This week I’m smitten with storm flaps, basically on anything. While they’re functional on jackets or on trench coats (they’re supposed to direct the rain water off you), they’re purely aesthetic on shirts and dresses… I suppose they’re also purely aesthetic on jackets that haven’t used water proof or water resistant fabric..

Either way, I’m obsessed with them, on trench coats but also on dresses and shirts! I like them aesthetic and functional!

The Helmi trench blouse & tunic dress from Named Patterns

The straight-cut blouse has elements from the classic trench coat, such as the cape and sleeve straps. The rounded collar and slightly curved hem with slits add a touch of soft femininity. The more streamlined tunic variation is also straight-cut and has a simple stand-up collar, half sleeves, and a curved hem. Both variations have a discreet and elegant hidden button placket.

Shackets are back

Shackets are in for winter this year- I don’t make the rules, but it’s definitely official and I’ve stamped my approval on it!

I say shackets are back, but since there’s always so many folks asking ‘what exactly is a shacket’ I think maybe they’re actually in for the first time?

A shacket is a cross between a shirt and a jacket. Not as warm as a coat, they’re generally unlined wool button-up jackets with button plackets and big chest pockets. They come in a variety of length but they’re almost all oversized and feature a drop shoulder.

Shacket shacket

Looking for shacket sewing patterns? Or shirt jacket sewing patterns? Here’s a roundup of some of the shackets which can keep you warm this year!

The Savannah Shacket is a free pattern from Mood Sewciety