Free Sewing Patterns Archives

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

Reusable flower tote tutorial

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 and A4 from $.15 per page

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.

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.

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!

Free waterproof backpack cover tutorial from ChCh sews!

Fanny Pack

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

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

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!

Running Armband Pocket

Grab the free running armband pocket from Fehr Trade!

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.

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.

Trail wallet

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

Want to get printing?

Email your PDF pattern files through to hello@chchsews.com to get started. A0 printing is $6 per sheet and A4 from $.15 per page

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!

Free zippered dopp kit tutorial

Free Wide Open Coin Purse Sewing Tutorial

Free drawstring bucket tote tutorial

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.

Free canvas lunch bag tutorial

Free drawstring bag tutorial

Le Sac Banane

A riff on the classic bumbag,

The Portside Travel Set

Who can be mad at a matching travel set?

Free wrap pocket tote tutorial

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

The Sandhill Sling

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

Want to get printing?

Email your PDF pattern files through to hello@chchsews.com to get started. A0 printing is $6 per sheet and A4 from $.15 per page

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!

Cobden Chore Jacket

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

THE Jacket

This Jacket from Atelier Brunette is available up to 126cm (49.5″) bust and 134cm (53″) hip

Julien Chore Jacket

The Julien from Ready To Sew is available up to a 123cm (48″) bust and 129cm (50″) hip

Chore Jacket Fabric?

Classic Chore Jackets are made with bottom-weight fabrics that are hard-wearing, so you can work in them! Grabbing a canvas drop cloth from Bunnings or Mitre 10 can be a cost effective solution because the extra width brings the per-metre price down.

Want a denim chore jacket?Check out my blogpost on ‘Shopping denim in NZ‘.

The Rhett Jacket

The Rhett is a free download if you’re a paid Seamwork member.

Available up to 137cm (54″) bust and 147cm (58″) hip

ZW Workwear Jacket

This zero-waste jacket from Birgitta Helmersson is currently available in sizes EU 36 – 44

Paola Workwear Jacket

The Paola is a free pattern from Fabrics Store which is available up to a 147cm (58″) hip

Finding buttons

All of these Jackets really highlight their buttons! My favourite places to find buttons in NZ is Hawes and Freer (who have some great eco options like corozo nut and sustainably farmed horn), and TradeMe.

When hunting for buttons on TradeMe, I type in the width I’m looking for and filter the search to items within NZ.

The Foreman

The Foreman from Merchant & Mills is designed for men and is available up to a 112cm (44″) chest and 98cm (38.5″) waist. It’s not available in their extended size range.

Remy Shirt

The Remy Shirt from Papercute Patterns is maybe closer to a shacket than a chore jacket but it was too cute to not be included. Add your own extra pockets for storing rocks and other important bits.

Want to get printing?

Email your PDF pattern files through to hello@chchsews.com to get started. A0 printing is $6 per sheet and A4 from $.15 per page

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.

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!

The Lago Tank

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

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!

Frances Shirt

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

Peppermint Jumpsuit

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

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

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‘

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!

Elemental Skirt

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

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 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.

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 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″).

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!

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.

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

An aerial view of waves crashing against a shore.

An aerial view of a field. A road runs through the upper right corner.

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.

Henri Trench from République du Chiffon

HENRI is a classic overcoat that has been adapted with a simple, elegant, and feminine style. Its ample cut means it can be worn over any outfit. Raglan sleeves and patch pockets give it an authentic look. Play with the symmetry of the front storm flap and back rain guard for more fun.

Jack trench coat from Ready To Sew

A contemporary twist on a trench coat. It has a relaxed fit and features big curved lapels, a gathered collar and a self-tied waist. Design to be worn open.

BARBARA from I Am

I am Barbara, a twist on the classic shirt: I have classic shirt sleeves and collar, cuffs with a slit opening, a back yoke and a center-back pleat. My front buttons are hidden under a placket and I have a wide cut. I can also be made as a dress.
My details make me very original: my front and/or back flounces are set in the sleeves. I have three different flounce variations with or without godets for a truly unique style.

Lola Linen Trench from Fabrics Store

Free pattern available to download through the link above.

Cortland Trench from Grainline

With its modern swing shape and length that hits mid-hip, the Cortland is an update on the classic trench. Raglan sleeves give you plenty of movement and room for layering while the storm flaps and generous collar keep out inclement weather. The Cortland also features a double-breasted front closure and roomy welt pockets. All seams are bound, which not only gives your coat a professional finish, but also helps it stand up to wear and tear.

Suraya Jacket from Sew Over It

Suraya features a host of lovely details, including epaulettes, storm flaps, sleeve loops, a back vent, welt pockets, collar and lapels. The main body of the jacket is unlined, though the set-in sleeves are lined for comfort. The seams are bound with bias binding for a stunning, super satisfying finish. The jacket is designed to hang open so there are no closures at the front.

Trench coat, pattern №742 from Grasser

It’s a regular fit A-line below-the-knee trench coat with lining. Front has one-piece side panels; trench coat is single breasted with combined central closure that consists of 1 installed snap button and hidden button panel with 8 sewn buttonholes and 8 buttons. Front has two patch pockets with one-piece flaps.

LOOSE-FIT DRESS/SHIRT LE 606 from DP Studio

A belted dress with a lot of volume on the top half, to which a series of pleats is added on sleeves, back and skirt level. The back is enhanced by a yoke and two bellows pockets bring the dress a sporty look.

Isla trench coat from Named Patterns

This timeless trench coat is a wardrobe staple! The straight-cut, lined coat has plenty of details, such as a belted collar, a cape, welt pockets, a belt, and tabs on sleeve openings. There is a vent at the back for added comfort. The double-breasted button fastening adds a classic look which is topped off with double top stitching.

ULYSSES TRENCH from Victory Patterns

ULYSSES mixes trench coat styling with a modern look. This relaxed, straight-cut jacket features draped elements such as a shawl collar and a clean-lined, curved back “rain guard” overlay.

TPC8//TRENCH JACKET from Trend Patterns

HANNAH DRESS from Victory Patterns

Not technically storm flaps, I’m going to go ahead and claim this one as on-topic since I think this crossover would direct water.

HANNAH is a sleeveless dress with a subtle A-line shift silhouette. It features angled side seams and front pockets, which transition cleverly into folding side-panels that wrap around to the back and criss-cross over each other. The hemline, with its upward curve at the sides and a subtle dip in the back, takes its inspiration from men’s shirting, A high neckline is edged with a double fold binding. The button up front is concealed with a hidden button placket for a minimal touch.

Jacket, pattern №826 from Grasser

Men’s shirt with storm flap on front
Free Vera Linen Trench from Fabrics Store (free)
Viki Sews Trench for girls
Viki Sews Trench for boys
Cyprus rain cape sewing pattern
Free Tansy Trench from Mood Sewciety (free)
Men’s trench from this strange website

Want to get printing?

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

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

The Logan Shacket from StyleArc is available in a variety of print formats- be aware that the patterns aren’t necessarily A0 files from StyleArc unless you purchase the A0 multi-size pattern (which costs more) as they use a 36″ print as their standard size (similar to Europe). I can print these, but they’re priced differently to A0 prints since their length is always variable.

The Shoalhaven Shacket from Muna and Broad is a cross between a shirt and a jacket and is perfect for a cozy wool jacket!

Muna and Broad makes plus size sewing patterns, and will grade patterns up to your size if their current size chart is too small to include you.

I’m 1/2 of Muna and Broad so this is blatant favouritism on my part.

Want more pattern ideas?

The Polina Oversized Shacket from Tint of Mint Patterns

Also check out the:
The Fairmount Shacket from Hey June
Franzi Shacket free pattern
Carter Shacket from Trish Newberry
Shirt Jacket from Coralina Patterns
Adult Shirt Jacket from Peekaboo Patterns
Men’s Shirt Jacket from Clothwork Collective
Ingrid Shacket from Viki Sews

The Bud Shacket from Seamwork is a great price if you have an ongoing Seamwork membership

The Rya Shirt/Coat from Fibremood

Want to get printing?

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

Big pocket patterns

It’s fruit gathering season. Urban scavenging season. Pear detritus time. Every time I’ve been out with the dog on our long evening walks I’ve regretted not being able to fit Even More Produce into my already ample pockets.

The Pocket Skirt from Peppermint Mag

This free skirt pattern was designed by Tara from Paper Theory and is available from 60-121cm (24-47.5″) waist and 86-146cm (34-57.5″) hip

The Jumpsuit from Rational Dress Society

This free pattern comes in a variety of styles and fits in order to cover a lot of bodies and genders.

Add more pockets. Add cargo pockets on the legs. Prepare to load yourself up!

Muna and Broad

The Belmore Jacket (left) and Sculthorpe Pants (right) both have generous pockets suitable for produce. The pockets on the Belmore are bonus pockets from the M&B Patreon.

The Akerfeldt Coat from Elbe Textiles is available 132cm (52″) chest. This unlined, boxy coat has great pockets and can have a hood or collar.

Those huge gusseted pockets look ideal for filling with goodies!

Stokx Patterns

Berlin-based Aussie pattern designer has The 7 Dress (left) and the Carla Rock skirt (right)

Rushcutter Dress

The Rushcutter Dress from Sydney-based In The Folds has pockets which run down to the bottom hem of the dress!

Lichen Duster

The Lichen Duster from Sew Liberated has pockets which could probably be made even deeper

Soline Shorts

The Soline Shorts from Staystitch Pattern Company

These gusseted pockets could be increased even further to give more room for fruit!

Georgie Pinafore

The Georgie Pinafore from Dunedin-based Jennifer Lauren Handmade

Boiled Wool Patterns

It’s that chilly time of the year where boiled wool returns to shops! Last night I spotted new boiled wools on the For Fabrics Sake website (I particularly like the pinks and plums they’ve got)- and since I already ordered myself some of the plum fabric, it’s safe to tell you about it now!

Of course, boiled wool can be a bit confusing. It’s a knit, but it’s for jackets, but it doesn’t fray so you don’t have to overlock or finishes the edges? Here are some patterns which work in boiled wool- some that are even specifically for boiled wool fabrics!

The Loden Sweater

Free Loden Sweater from Dressmakers’ Guild

Leila and I have released 5 outerwear patterns together through Muna and Broad!

Our Mallee Jacket, Shoalhaven Shacket and Belmore Jacket are all great with boiled wool

The Boxwood Hoodie

The free Boxwood Hoodie from Mood Fabrics

The Foreman Jacket

This boiled wool jacket uses The Foreman Jacket from Merchant & Mills

The Tobin Sweater

The Tobin Sweater from Cashmerette is shown here in boiled wool!

The Big Easy Top

The Big Easy Top from The Maker’s Atelier

Harry

The I Am Harry cape

The French Dart Shift Tunic

The French Dart Shift tunic from Maven Patterns

The Eve Jacket

The Eve Jacket from Schnittchen Patterns

Ursula Coatigan

The Ursula Coatigan from SewgirlintheUK

Bianca Coat

The Bianca Coat from Sew Me Something

Jocko pullover

The Jocko pullover from Ready To Sew

Ninot Jacket

The Ninot Jacket from Pauline Alice Design

Boiled wool scraps?

I’ve been a bit obsessed with these boiled wool cushion covers, and I’m sure I have enough extra bits of boiled wool in my scrap stash to make myself a few throw cushion covers.

Here’s a tutorial from thehomesihavemade.com

Want to get printing?

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