We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
WiseGEEK

Advertiser Disclosure

Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.

How We Make Money

We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently from our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Culinary

How do I Find Free Sewing Patterns?

By Miranda Fine
Updated May 17, 2024
Our promise to you
WiseGEEK is dedicated to creating trustworthy, high-quality content that always prioritizes transparency, integrity, and inclusivity above all else. Our ensure that our content creation and review process includes rigorous fact-checking, evidence-based, and continual updates to ensure accuracy and reliability.

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

Editorial Standards

At WiseGEEK, we are committed to creating content that you can trust. Our editorial process is designed to ensure that every piece of content we publish is accurate, reliable, and informative.

Our team of experienced writers and editors follows a strict set of guidelines to ensure the highest quality content. We conduct thorough research, fact-check all information, and rely on credible sources to back up our claims. Our content is reviewed by subject matter experts to ensure accuracy and clarity.

We believe in transparency and maintain editorial independence from our advertisers. Our team does not receive direct compensation from advertisers, allowing us to create unbiased content that prioritizes your interests.

There are many ways to find free sewing patterns. Sewing is enjoying a resurgence in popularity due to renewed interest in crafts, homemade, and handmade goods, and the do-it-yourself movement. Many types and styles of patterns are available for free, including patterns for clothing, decorative items, toys, and more.

The internet is a great resource for free sewing patterns. If you type “free sewing patterns” into a search engine window, your search will result in thousands of hits. The trick is that not all sites and patterns will truly be free. Finding free patterns for the item you wish to make, in a format that can be easily downloaded and used, can take some searching.

For example, it is common for pattern making companies to sponsor “free pattern” sites where users can submit patterns of their own to be downloaded for free on the site. The site will have some free patterns, but mostly feature patterns from the manufacturer which can be downloaded for a fee. Still, there are sites devoted to organizing and accessing sewing patterns that are truly free. If you have some time and some patience, you may find what you are looking for online, free of charge.

Another option for free patterns may be to try your local fabric store. Fabric stores, especially those that offer sewing classes, often give away patterns for free. Usually, one free pattern is featured for a period of time, or the pattern might be offered as a way to attract customers to enroll in a specific sewing class. These offerings will change periodically. Ask a store worker if free pattterns are available at your store.

You can also try the library for free sewing patterns. At minimum, the library will have books on sewing that may include some patterns, with instructions for enlarging on a copy machine. Another source for free patterns is friends or family members who sew. Ask around to find out who sews—you may be surprised! You could also try a local sewing or crafts club as a source for free sewing patterns. You are likely to find other sewing enthusiasts you can trade patterns with.

WiseGEEK is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
See our Editorial Process Share Feedback

Related Articles

Discussion Comments

By arunil — On Jul 10, 2009

If you're looking for free patterns online, try the websites of established pattern makers. They often provide some simple patterns for free as a way to (1) encourage you to buy their patterns, and (2) encourage more social interaction, as stitchers talk about patterns they like and upload their own patterns.

Some sewing magazines also offer back issues online, sometimes in PDF format. These can include free patterns.

I think craft and accessory patterns are often the easiest to find for free.

WiseGEEK, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGEEK, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.