10 Must-Have Patterns Every Sewist Needs in Their Collection

Hey there, sewing enthusiasts! In this video, I'm sharing my top 10 patterns that every sewist should have in their collection. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sewist, these patterns will be your go-to for creating a wide range of stylish garments.
From classic dress designs to trendy jumpsuits, I've handpicked a selection of versatile patterns that will keep you inspired and ready to tackle any sewing project. I'll also be giving you insider tips on why these patterns are essential and how to customize them to suit your unique style.
Join me as I walk you through each pattern, discussing their features, fabric recommendations, and potential style variations. You'll discover timeless classics that will never go out of style, as well as modern designs that will keep you on-trend.
Whether you love working with flowy fabrics, structured silhouettes, or experimenting with different textures, this video has something for everyone. Get ready to expand your sewing repertoire and take your creations to the next level!
Make sure to hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications, so you won't miss out on future sewing content. And if you have any questions or suggestions for future videos, leave them in the comments below-I love hearing from you!
Let's dive into the world of patterns together and create beautiful garments that reflect our personal style. Get your sewing machines ready, because we're about to embark on an exciting sewing journey!
Here's the list in case you want them:
McCalls 8112 (T-Shirt)
McCalls 8160 (Shift Dress)
Simplicity 8375 (Knit Shift Dress)
Simplicity 8982 (Top, Dress, Skirts)
Simplicity 8655 (Skinny Jean, Bell Bottom Pants)
Simplicity 9235 (Pants)
Butterick 6319 (Classic Dress)
Vogue 9075 (Dress or Jumpsuit)
Vogue 1399 (Dress with peplum)
McCalls 8329(Two or One Piece Swimsuit)
Remember to like this video and share it with fellow sewists looking to expand their pattern collection. Happy sewing, and I'll see you in the next video!#sewingpatterns #sewingtips #diyfashion

[@lornaharvey2859]

Here's the list in case you want them: 1-McCalls (T-Shirt) - 8112 2-McCalls (Shift Dress) - 8160 3-Simplicity (Knit Shift Dress) - 8375 4-Simplicity (Top, Dress, Skirts) - 8982 5-Simplicity (Skinny Jean, Bell Bottom Pants) - 8655 6-Simplicity (Pants) - 9235 7-Butterick (Classic Dress) - 6319 8-Vogue (Dress or Jumpsuit) - 9075 9-Vogue (Dress with peplum) - 1399 10-McCalls (Two or One Piece Swimsuit) - 8329

[@sewingformysanity]

That was soooooooo nice. I've been traveling and it was on my list of things to do today!!!!!! Thank you for your kindness and time

[@RebeccaTreeseed]

@@sewingformysanity can you link to them for a commission?

[@hadgit60]

Thank you for this list

[@Healthycook0001]

Enjoyed watching your video! Thanks for the pattern recommendations but mostly the tips and pics of you wearing the garments. I too need the petite size because of height and shy away from bottom patterns because of too many pattern drafting changes. Thanks for the encouragement too😊

[@MamaJLW]

Here’s a tip for multiple use patterns. I use a thin iron on interfacing to keep the shape of my go-to patterns true to the original.

[@sewingformysanity]

That's a great idea!

[@jeandodds656]

Awesome creative talent comes in all colours

[@tiayarns93]

So happy to find a woman of color in this creative space!

[@sewingformysanity]

Thank you! This means a lot! 😁

[@janeseemann2527]

Luckily, I’ve come across quite a few.

[@jeandodds656]

Talent and creativity comes in all colours

[@ms.kraftykreations5699]

You missed the point. ​@@jeandodds656

[@ms.kraftykreations5699]

I agree. Refreshing!

[@jeanjones1211]

It's the fitting of the clothes that make them

[@cleanqueen75]

I’m 5’0. I love to see what us petite girls look good in. All your makes look fantastic.

[@sewingformysanity]

Thank you @cleanqueen75 it's not easy being this petite in the adult world

[@Joy4650B]

Your video just popped up in my feed. You are lovely and your garments are lovely. I'm sure you could live without them. LOL. If I still had a waist at my age, I would LOVE to make that jumpsuit pattern. Looks like you can fit any pattern to your body, and that is a great skill. Enjoyed your video.

[@micheleh4016]

Nice selection of patterns. I would tower over you at 5'2" (LOL) but it is great to hear from another petite height gal with a curvy figure. And that to me has always been one if the top 5 reasons to sew fashion for oneself, being able to adjust the fit.

[@karen-zb7pu]

New subscriber! Thanks, I have six of these patterns and will pick up the other four.

[@annkoegel1595]

Loved all your patterns. Yes thinking outside the box and letting the fabric do the "talking" is a great way to elevate a simple design.

[@user-wu7sv6hr7v]

Fun, inspiring video - I especially love that you are still using patterns from a while ago and they're still looking fantastic! I can't remember the number of the Simplicity pattern I've used four times but it is just a knit tank top, and I've made the Simplicity version of the Sew Seven Toaster sweater four times (so far) - each one is different because of the fabric 😀!

[@jammymommy]

How did I just find you?? You’re gorgeous + love your recommendations!! 😍

[@ZeldaSews]

Ditto!😊

[@allieg6401]

SAME!! I'm just starting my 'pattern' journey instead of just tracing/ guessing /practice... hope to be able to wear r these jtems out of the house lol 😂

[@leilalineberger995]

Right?! I’m just coming to the conclusion that I just need to buy patterns instead of trying to follow DIY directions. You still really need to make a pattern and they often only give you one size. I have two daughters, one is really small and the other is just a big girl, all their lives. Yes it was an issue for the larger one but she was just how she was born. Sorry, anyway I can’t just resize the DIY things. I love the pattern ideas, well I do need to look for more casual ones. But yours are so cute. ❤❤

[@Angela-pi6zc]

THANK YOU!

[@edinacole6382]

Yay! So glad to find you! Love seeing a short curvy black girl like me!❤❤❤

[@pennycandyys]

Awesome video, and you’ve really done them justice the different ways you made each one, thanks for sharing!

[@sewingformysanity]

Thank you very much!

[@pennycandyys]

@@sewingformysanity You're welcome!

[@lovejohandmade]

Ooh, not many people as short as me! So great to find one who sews so I can steal your tips for alterations hopefully.

[@TruLuvDesignz]

Love your pattern choices!

[@lynetterene]

Hi, I was minding my business in KZbin and found your channel. I'm so happy I did. New subie here. The Simplicity Pattern 8982 .......I have about 6 of those patterns for fear of losing it and I brought one of them for my mother one. I was almost going to give away all my patterns, except that one....I mean what else do I need? 😂 Thanks for sharing again and look forward to watching your other videos

[@bethd5049]

This was a great and informative video! Now we just have to get more people sewing! It's such a stress reliever and major ego booster. I do more quilting and crafting than garment sewing, but I just love creating things with my sewing machine!

[@sewingformysanity]

I love this comment. I often get asked why I bother because I could just buy clothes…I’m literally stress relieving while I’m creating

[@sammof7939]

from the mrs: Your 10 must have patterns are perfect! Great for all levels of sewists. I always love a good wrap dress!

[@sewingformysanity]

Yess!! Wrap dresses are the best!

[@alldaymusiclover107]

Glad you showed up in my listing! I haven't sewn in decades! Back when I did sew I had a favorite pants pattern that I altered perfectly for me. I used that pattern until it was falling apart. Watching you was thoroughly enjoyable. I didn't know young people had an interest in sewing. Beautiful clothing!

[@ellastroupe5754]

Love the patterns. You are very talented at styling your outfits. I want to be better in that area as it takes the outfit to a new level.

[@sewingformysanity]

You can do it! Keep trying!!!

[@petmom1967]

Those green pants are gorgeous!!

[@sewingformysanity]

Thank you!!!

[@alisonkirk5720]

Loved this episode and who doesn’t love a few good patterns! Does the island come with a chef so we can just sew?? x

[@rhondaa18]

Love seeing other sewists’ go-to patterns. You have great style.

[@sewingformysanity]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@vickyk5510]

Excellent suggestions. My swimsuit is my favourite me made. Sewing performance fabric is a completely different skill set. Starting off with a small project, like a bikini bottom, is a great way to learn.

[@dianedean521]

Just came across your video and I really enjoyed your presentation style and condensed content!

[@sewingformysanity]

I appreciate that!

[@wendywright4397]

Enjoyed your video and choices!

[@sewingformysanity]

Thanks for watching!

[@leahpitman2731]

Ok, I’m so glad you popped up today!!!! Perhaps watching you will motivate me to sew! I’m currently cleaning out my stash of patterns and fabric!!! Love your happy smiley personality!!❤️💕🥰. You look so cute in your makes!!!!

[@sfg64]

Very informational, thank you! I'm a beginner sewist and it's been tough to figure out what patterns I should spend money on since I'm just learning.

[@sewingformysanity]

Your welcome! Glad I could help

[@maryoaks3228]

Your scream name is EVERYTHING and so TRUE ❤❤❤❤!!!

[@maryoaks3228]

Correction: Your SCREEN name is EVERYTHING!

[@randidaeger157]

You really know your stuff! I appreciate that you don’t waste time jabbering about non essential things (a huge bugaboo to me)!

[@marieke1985]

I am very new to the whole sewing thing and have been looking at witch patterns i want to make. And i already picked a few, but didnt start yet because iam practising with old bed sheets etc. This overview is very helpfull, I will definitly get a few from the list. Thanks!

[@yellowfuchsia1]

Currently, my favourite pattern is Cadence dress and top by Love Notions. Just slips on over the head, no fastenings required. Several different options for sleeves and neckline. Easy to make and easy to wear.

[@sewingformysanity]

Thanks for sharing!! I might just try that pattern

[@cathtaylor2771]

Gorgeous patterns , a great mix, thankyou for sharing and thankyou so much for coming back to youtube, i had just found you on here, and realised you hadnt posted for 4 months. I, and im sure many others, are so pleased you're back posting video's. So a MASSIVE THANKYOU for that xx

[@roscoemahaffey3337]

I just saw you! Already subscribed.

[@sewingformysanity]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@kittygailey5028]

Thank you for sharing a great list, and you made stunning versions!!! Wow! Just lovely.

[@adelmarie58]

Well, you are extremly good looking! And the fabrics you have choosen make you look stunning!

[@sewingformysanity]

Oh thank you!

[@marijabu]

Great little collection. Thank you for calling us sewists.

[@sewingformysanity]

You are so welcome!

[@fiona36b]

You had me at Gillian’s Island ❤😂🏝️

[@sewingformysanity]

And I totally told my age 😂😂

[@fiona36b]

@@sewingformysanity Your secret is safe with me🤪

[@blueskye23]

v9075 is also on my to do pile of patterns. Thanks for your list. They are great ideas.

[@joonmade]

Great selection! I mostly sew with indie patterns, but now I'm eyeing that Mimi G & the bathing suit one! Totally with you on the swimwear -- making your own is so satisfying. :)

[@blufaerie]

Lovely patterns and your makes are phenomenal!

[@sewingformysanity]

Thank you so much!

[@poppies1215]

Thank you for the inspiration and great classic patterns to encourage anyone to get sewing! Your presentation is straight forward and understandable. I really liked your fabric suggestions too. Thanks again!🪡🌟🍁😌

[@sewingformysanity]

Welcome! Thank you for warching

[@connielorenz8329]

Love your choices. Your fit is spot on.

[@sewingformysanity]

Thank you!

[@MegInASheathDress]

Love the Mimi G pants pattern. I've used mine to make pants for all my friends and myself. 😅 Great wrap-up of what look like easy patterns.

[@abundantlyinspired]

I loved your video and found 3 patterns I'm definitely gonna get!❤ I have made multiples of McCalls 5864(B), 7892(B) and 7325.😊

[@sewingformysanity]

Wonderful! Ohhhh McCalls 7892 is one I overlooked, might add that to the collection

[@lpetitoiseau9146]

Thank you! I’m going through my fabrics and then out to the pattern books. Thank you! Starting my collection.

[@HELENPATTERSON-io5eo]

Enjoy looking at your 10 patterns I like them too

[@euniceh9851]

So grateful for this list of patterns. They will be joining my stash 😁💖😁

[@sewingformysanity]

Yayyyyyyy

[@phyllisdippert2216]

I am a senior, so i will try a few!

[@bobbiemilliken4256]

I loved this video. I have to finish my quilt so I can sew a fresh for fall and for work!

[@LadyJayA-fl8sn]

Thank you so much for these suggestions, I’m very new to sewing never sown a garment before but I’m gonna try one of these 😁

[@sewingformysanity]

Don't forget to have fun 🎢

[@AjanProvocateur]

Thank you so much

[@sewingformysanity]

Any time

[@10centMillionaires]

My favorite pattern is the George and Ginger Batty. I've made it several times both as a shirt and cardi. Also, your photographer is amazing!

[@sewingformysanity]

Thanks for sharing, I might try these patterns…especially the transform dress

[@EzzyDT]

Thank you so much.

[@ShutokaJefferson]

I have to make V9075 it's beautiful, thanks for sharing

[@sewingformysanity]

Go for it! Don't forget to share, I love to see how other creatives style and fashion

[@nancyloomis3046]

I'm determined to make time to sew again, so watching vids like yours are a great inspiration! Thanks! (and I just subscribed 👍)

[@leannsews]

I just found you and watched a couple of your lovely videos and I'm looking forward to watching more. I'm also 4 ft 11 and proud of it 😊

[@sewingformysanity]

Thanks 🙏🏽 for watching… we shorties have to stick together lol

[@SeamsterStudio2009]

WOW! Amazing.

[@MariaSantos-dz9lh]

I loved this! Thank you

[@SewAndTellwithDori]

I have about half of your choices, but wished I had more! Nice pick!!!

[@bunniesinclair197]

Great choices. 👍👍👍

[@Cbuffy20]

Great video, covers everything 😊

[@coastalconstance6319]

What a great video! Thanks for the recommendations!

[@barbdawdy7698]

your channel is excellent. love how you show the patterns made on you.

[@sewingformysanity]

Glad you like them!

[@susanelliott1970]

Beautiful work

[@samdumas8692]

You are an inspiration 👗

[@susanv5684]

This was a great video. I ordered a couple of your suggested patterns. Thanks!

[@noemir8262]

Awesome suggestions ❤ You give great suggestions on how to make these work.

[@CreativiteeByT]

Great video ! Love all your choices!

[@sewingformysanity]

Glad you like them!

[@praxisfurnaturheilkunde5394]

Tolle Tipps dabei, vielen Dank!

[@sewingformysanity]

Gern geschehen! Viel Spaß beim Nähen.

[@Rosalie2204]

Just found you, excited to try sewing, my mother was great at sewing, I can mend, and do small things, like hems but never sewed with patterns 🌺🇨🇦 and subscribed

[@Gosewsomething]

I love those patterns, I've been looking for basic patterns. thank you!

[@sewingformysanity]

You are so welcome!

[@judithholleran6423]

Enjoyed your video. You have a very nice manner .

[@sonialorenzo9223]

Great selection of patterns

[@sewingformysanity]

Thank you

[@kathrynquinn3255]

I want to try Simpliciity 8655 Mimi G in bell bottoms. I am 4’10” and could never wear bell bottoms. By the time I finished hemming them, there was no bell left. Thanks for the tip!

[@sewingformysanity]

Ok so let's change it up. Do your alterations above the bell bottom-a little at the thigh, a little at the lengthen shorten line and a little at the hem. This will preserve the integretated of the pattern and you will still have the bell bottom

[@MegInASheathDress]

Lovely capsule classic styles. The fabrics are gorgeous. Amazing Badgley Mischka blue dress fabric!

[@sewingformysanity]

Thank you so much!

[@LadyFlapJack34]

Thank you thank you thank you!!! I was just saying I need patterns that’s going to help me build the skill. Thank you soo much

[@sewingformysanity]

My pleasure! Glad you enjoyed the video. Thank you so much for the comment

[@grahamcharters1638]

This is brilliant! Do you have a similar list for men please?

[@sewingformysanity]

No but is this a video request…if so consider it done

[@Mickey-jn8hz]

It would have been nice if you had listed the numbers of these patterns . Thank you, good video.

[@rerelat8242]

New sub

[@sewingformysanity]

Welcome aboard!

[@karlenwilson2909]

I have M8160 but haven’t made it yet. I’m also 4’11”, well plus a half 😂 I think it will be perfect for my frame. Have you gotten into Kibbe body types?

[@sewingformysanity]

No but this sounds interesting

[@Rose-46456]

Sewist! Seamstress.

[@wendymurdoch7369]

Where do you get these old patterns?

[@sewingformysanity]

I get them from Joann’s!

[@aribella6913]

I just found you, and really enjoyed this post.

[@barbaraanne2136]

You are so cute!

[@sewingformysanity]

You are so kind

[@dawnybee5405]

Do you need to do a petite alteration with these patterns. I am 4’9” and have trouble with fitting. 10 cm shoulders, dd boobies. A real challenge.

[@sewingformysanity]

Almost every single thing I sew requires a petite adjustment. The trick is to start with a sloper and use those skills for almost everything else…oh and I also have DDs 😆😂😆😂

[@marilynd3996]

Sewist or seamstress?

[@user-wy2ip7gx4w]

It's hard to see the pattern - could you hold it closer to the camera, please? Nice choices that I can see - are they for full bust sizes also? LOL

[@sewingformysanity]

Thanks for watching and I will consider that next time. I did LIST The patterns in the description AND I pinned it in the comments. Please feel free to reference the written information. For reference, I'm a 32-34 DD most days

[@bettyeames6812]

It is easy to zoom in on the pattern if you expand your fingers on the screen. 😊

[@ZeldaSews]

What is your name? I'm Zelda 😅

[@sewingformysanity]

Hi Zelda! I’m Shontae

[@ZeldaSews]

@sewingformysanity Well, Hello Shontae! Now I know how to address you!

[@pamelalc63]

I don't understand why you don't hold the patterns still so that we can clearly see it

[@sewingformysanity]

Thanks for watching and I will consider that next time. I did LIST The patterns in the description AND I pinned it in the comments. Please feel free to reference the written information. Thanks again

[@apippin774]

Why cant we hear what she is saying? Only music is playing

[@sewingformysanity]

I'm sooooo sorry you were having difficulty playing the video. It's corrected now. Thanks for watching and happy sewing!!!

[@annarademacher8359]

Is there a problem with the audio? It started with you talking and then went into music for the rest of the video?

[@sewingformysanity]

unfortunately, it looks like there’s some technical problem with this video. I’m working on it as we speak.

[@sewingformysanity]

I'm sooooo sorry you were having difficulty playing the video. It's corrected now. Thanks for watching and happy sewing!!!

[@lisaoloughlin7176]

It's a seamstress, not a sewist........theres no such word........

[@sewingformysanity]

Sewist is a word. Seamstress is old-fashioned and not inclusive. And “sewer” , as you can see, looks like the place where plumbers work, so those of us who sew don't like that either. The best options are: a sewist, a tailor, or yes, a seamstress