FREE Sewing Patterns I Absolutely Adore (and a few more I regret)

[@nataliestanchevski4628]

Thank you for your review. As a sewist I still find it a bit difficult to choose patterns that "suit" me vs patterns that are popular in the community. If it's free but I don't wear It, it's not a frugal make lol.

[@knottygnome]

i've definitely found that learning more about my own personal style makes it easier to resist joining a bandwagon.

[@carrieyardley822]

You should wear that blue more often. Stunning.

[@knottygnome]

thank you! actually that color was pretty close to what i wanted my vikisews milana dress to be. i was looking for a deep ocean blue but nobody had it in stock at the time.

[@bohemiansusan2897]

A suggestion is to watch The Closet Historian as she teaches a lot about pattern alterations and to make a basic pattern block. I use mine to make pattern fit alterations. Zoe Hong has a huge selection of design and construction videos too.

[@Mickey-jn8hz]

Can’t wear a jumpsuit….need something that I can get off quickly for my bathroom habits but I am sad because its really nice.

[@knottygnome]

🤣

[@designed_by_danita]

Thank you for an honest review of some of the free patterns out there! I think fabric matching to the pattern is a huge part of my sewing experience and makes a difference in whether or not I like my project.

[@knottygnome]

for sure! glad you enjoyed it.

[@Southlagal26]

I do not participate in challenges. I don’t have as much time to devote to sewing as I would like, so I try to focus on spending that time on things I really want to make or need for my wardrobe. Sometimes the challenges are tempting, but I don’t want to put deadlines on myself when sewing. I go through phases of inspiration and productivity and since it’s my main hobby and stress reducing activity I prefer allow myself to be as unrestricted as possible.

[@knottygnome]

yes i think I am leaning towards your line of thinking. I've made too many things for challenges before that I don't wear.

[@MountainAccentsSewing]

I enjoyed seeing your favorite free patterns as well as the ones you don't want to make again. My favorite was your jumpsuit. ❤

[@knottygnome]

thanks so much for watching!

[@ireneparker8253]

Thanks for this video. I already had the 5oo4 Ninja pants and the Styla Galena dress. But I did sign up to get the Little Pomegranate Sabina Skirt. I also enjoyed the way "Lost my thread" rated her list of free patterns. Like this video, I found it extremely enjoyable, informative and helpful. I sew my clothing at the high plus size range of sizing. So, I really appreciated you including that information. The really excellent thing about the sewing community is that we are all different. But, we still share the same interest.

[@knottygnome]

so glad i could introduce you to something new!

[@alisonkirk5720]

Loved this vlog as it was simple and to the point! I like that you have had good points and bad points and some that are still worn but not often. I have made the Sabina skirt and love it. I think I might make a blouse to match and then use it as a dress too. I am looking for a good v neck t shirt pattern as they suit me better than a round neck. Look forward to seeing you pop up again xx

[@knottygnome]

i think the forget me not free tshirt pattern has a v-neck, though i haven't tried it myself. there's also the pattern emporium keep it simple babe tee which has a ton of different necklines including a v. i've sewn that one and can testify that it's great.

[@prosie1968]

I love the sew frugal challenge mainly because I always do frugally and it’s fun to be encouraged. I will likely sew patterns I already have so it won’t be sewing just to sew. Thanks for your take on free patterns you’ve sewn.

[@knottygnome]

yes, i think it's a good opportunity to make use of all the wonderful free resources out there. i'm just not sure i have the energy this year to hunt down one that will work in my closet.

[@Kate-m5m]

One of my all time favourite, most-made patterns is actually free - the Plantain t-shirt by Deer & Doe. I have made at least five of these and wear them through most of the summer.

[@knottygnome]

i know that one is super popular but i've never tried it myself. glad you found a TNT

[@KateinTexas]

So glad you shared this! 😃That's exactly the t-shirt style I've been trying to find. Even better, they have some of the cutest patterns! 😍(How did I not know about them sooner?!)

[@raquelseydewitz491]

I’m a sewing challenge person, but I do find that I make things that don’t always suit me. I’ve gotten better over time and I pick and choose my challenges more carefully now.

[@knottygnome]

being choosy sounds like a good approach! i used to try to take part in almost all of the challenges but not anymore.

[@deb.m.7458]

Appreciate this review. Just because it’s free it doesn’t mean it’s good for you. However if there are honest reviews available, you can adjust it before you cut into your fabric. More sewists need to share their reviews regarding free patterns. This channel and Lost my Thread did a great service to the sewing community. Found some great patterns today. Thank you❤

[@knottygnome]

i'm glad you found it helpful.

[@create_something_pretty]

Great video. I love this idea. I have mixed feelings about sewing challenges. I like to join in but I don't want to be wasting fabric on something I'm not going to wear, also I find it distracting from my personal sewing goals. I am actually sewing up a free pattern now but I was already planning to make it before the challenge went live. So I'll probably post it when I'm done. Love your channel ❤❤

[@knottygnome]

thank you! i've definitely had that feeling too, that i've wasted fabric. these days it takes me so long to plan out what i want to make that i can't really stick to deadlines. by the time i make up my mind about what pattern/fabric to use, the challenge is already over. 😂

[@vickyk5510]

The sewfrugal challenge, and the upcycle challenge are my favorites. The downside of the upcycle challenge is no fabric yardage. I only take part in a challenge if it works with my needs and plans. The Ninjas are a GREAT pattern., so many rise and wb, even maternity options. Their YT channel has a gusset video. I'm going to use the extra wide bands you hate, to save a really bad freebie pattern, so-sew-easy's High-Low T-Shirt. I have my project as a public wip on patternreview.

[@knottygnome]

good luck with your project!

[@susannaharnhart4910]

Wonderful video! I think this was recommended to me because I indeed am checking out sew frugal this year! Thank you for your level of detail, thanks for showing visuals of the pattern on multiple people, and thanks for the clear “ranking”! Also, that blue sweater is so lovely on you!

[@knottygnome]

i'm so glad you enjoyed it!

[@bohemiansusan2897]

I love to see what you come up for content. My style is different than yours but I usually learn a little something. I started sewing 43 years ago when I was 12 and I often do mending alterations and custom garments from time to time for folks. Just not enough to be my sole support. The one thing I learned as an 18 yr old is that one can always improve or learn when it comes to sewing. Really neat to see what you're doing or didn't like doing. As with all patterns, wearing ease is the biggest concern. I tend to cut things with a 3/4" - 1" seam allowance just in case I need I need more than the wearing ease allowed. I sometimes trace a pattern and then work out the alterations for a square figure. The last two you didn't like are the ones I liked the most. The pencil skirt needs a bit more wearing ease and I have no clue if you have no more room to let the seama out a bit. About 1&1/2 inches longer would be perfect for you. Now the T-shirt is neat and the stripes are really cool. Again there is a wearing ease issue with the sleeves needing a bit more with at the biceps and a slightly enlarged armhole. It's mind blowing what a total 1/2 " - 1" total adjustment will do for a garment. My next priority is to sew up the gambit dress and blouse from Mood Fabrics. It's described as an pinafore but really it's a jumper. I can tweak the pattern to use it as a base for a WWi era traveling dress that is practical or a more contemporary one. The blouse is a definitely WWi look and early 20s. I could wear it with a skirt, jumper, shorts, work trousers or jeans. I haven't had Staples print it for me yet but at this point. Next is the Shirley dress from Mood Fabrics. I already know what tweaks I would have to do in order to get it to look well on me. I really need to make some work dress blouses. Will make them out of the same Butterick pattern I been using for the last 16 years. I have three sets that are different sizes for body changes over the years and they are all on tagboard.

[@knottygnome]

it's great that you've found a system that works for you.

[@Beth_Ann_K]

Would love to know what Butterrick pattern from 16 years ago is your go-to work shirt. Sounds like a real oldie but goodie pattern!

[@bohemiansusan2897]

@@Beth_Ann_K Butterick B5284

[@dizzyquiltsandsews]

Thank you for this! I’ve had very little success with free patterns with the exception of pattern companies I know and love, e.g. Itch-to-Stitch. The Mandy Boat Tee was such a fail for me, it was laughable. The arms are so tight, I looked like I was wearing a sack with skinny little branches sticking out of it 🤣

[@knottygnome]

i know that the MBT was extremely popular for awhile so it must have worked for some (i'm sure the popularity is why i made it myself). but i have also heard that it didn't work for a lot of people as well.

[@marybethpazdernik9672]

After the first year of sewing challenges during the pandemic, I resolved to only sew items I needed (or really, really wanted) that were already in my plans. I made a great dress with a Fabric Store pattern and I hope this year to make a chore jacket from a FS pattern and some home decor fabric I've had for years. And have wanted to make for a couple of years. So trust your instincts and don't participate in a challenge that isn't going to give you a garment you'll wear often. Though we don't ever know for sure.

[@knottygnome]

thanks! after making a few mistakes i think i've gotten better at being more choosy over time. it's a process.

[@constancegarcia8053]

The color of the sweater you have on is beautiful on you .❤ Thank you for the vlog.

[@knottygnome]

thank you very much! i always get compliments when i wear this sweater. i should make more things in teal. 😊

[@faithmathingsdal79]

Sarah, that jumper you're wearing is absolutely beautiful on you! The colour!!!! Perfection.

[@knottygnome]

thank you!

[@tracis763]

This was an excellent video with honest opinions and details about your personal experience; thank you for taking the time to explain!! I struggle with the “free” vs “useful” sewing decisions, this was good food for thought.

[@knottygnome]

thank you for watching!

[@Nina-rx2eo]

Great video, thanks for sharing. It took me to the Celine jumpsuit which I made and love!

[@knottygnome]

that's awesome! i'm glad you like your jumpsuit.

[@ChristineSewsALot]

It is important to sew what works for you

[@LostMyThread]

Watching this video, piecing together the Closet Core T-shirt, which feels appropriate. 😉 It really is so much more helpful to hear about people's individual experiences about free patterns that they've actually sewn. I loved getting your unique views on these patterns. Thanks, Sara!

[@knottygnome]

absolutely! there are so many untested patterns out there that it can be a little scary trying one. i always appreciate it when someone else has made it first and i can learn from their experience.

[@kristine2916]

Mandy is one of my most loved patterns. I love it for same reasons you do not - wide body with narrow sleeves. With right fabric (stretchy bamboo or viscose) it looks so lovely and flattering on me. I am making it again and again in different fabrics. I have also modified neckline to make it kind of crew-neck instead of boat-neck to be more bra friendly and safer for work. This only shows how different we all are.

[@knottygnome]

absolutely!

[@Beth_Ann_K]

Great topic. With your Vicki Sews dress, ever thought about refashioning it just to make it into a skirt? It looked great with those boots in that photo. You could then choose a top that’s in a more comfortable color for you. Just a thought since it was so well made.

[@knottygnome]

thank you for the kind comment. no, i hate orange so much that i don't even want it as a skirt. i'd rather pass along the dress intact to someone else who could enjoy it.

[@emmaaustin123]

I agree that colours with a blue hue to them suit you more than a yellow hue. The red dress makes that obvious. Thank you for your recommendations.

[@knottygnome]

thanks, glad you enjoyed it!

[@emmaaustin123]

@@knottygnome So to clarify you can wear any colour that is has a blue hue, which includes red. I did love your video, too.

[@janisdressler7380]

So informative! Great video and kindly presented. Thanks for your honest appraisal.

[@knottygnome]

Glad it was helpful!

[@TKCTSTN]

Thanks for your specific critiques & for showing some plus size photos. Also, thanks for saying ip front what sizes are available. I'd call myself a medium level sewist & these look like projects i could do. You have inspired me to try leggings- i've felt intimidated based on comments i've heard & read.

[@knottygnome]

i think that representation is important so i try to show a variety of models whenever i can. leggings can be a bit tricky to get your machine settings right but once you have it the sewing process is pretty straightforward.

[@pmclaughlin4111]

2 takes on sew frugal/free patterns: Designers offer free patterns so you can try out the sizing and instructions-if there is a pattern/pattern co you are interested in trying-Try their free pattern Occasionally, I spot a free pattern that I really want to try-generally these are from places like Fabric Place or Mood where they are trying to sell fabric not patterns or newsletter sign up. I've got one from Mood-that should require minimal fitting adjustments-so I go for it

[@pmclaughlin4111]

@SewingandSnakes i actually just looked down and realized I am wearing the Monroe turtleneck by Tessuti. It is based on the mandy boat tee. I do remember reading about the sleeves on Mandy and I must have made an adjustment. I'm finicky with drop shoulders and the Monroe hits just right for me. I've made it a couple of times. Keep telling myself I should try the Mandy Boat tee just because.

[@knottygnome]

my problem is that i have so many patterns that i paid for but haven't made yet that i tend to forget that free patterns exist. 🤣

[@pmclaughlin4111]

@@knottygnome That's not a problem. That is what making your own wardrobe is about-finding what works for you and refining it. I have a completely different lifestyle and body but your videos about what works and does not work for you help me reflect on what I am doing For you, at this stage of your sewing life, free patterns are a fun bonus-that's not a problem

[@scofah]

Great video. Diversity. Kindness. Informative. Thank you for the info.

[@knottygnome]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@lynnshepard7485]

Hi Sara. I really appreciate your video on the free pattern topic. I’m about to watch it again to write down the details. I hadn’t heard of the Ninja pant, and I haven’t sewn any 5004 patterns yet. This one looks like a good one to try for my granddaughter, who is teetering on adult sizing. It’s been difficult to sew for her at this stage because she lives 1,000 miles away from me. I’m very attracted to the pattern you showed with the beautiful sleeves. Always searching for details to amp up patterns I have and love; these sleeves look like a winner! Thanks, Sara. 😘

[@knottygnome]

you are so welcome! i'm glad that you got something out of the video.

[@marciahighsmith4820]

Hi! I enjoyed your video and wanted to comment on a question you asked. I hate to be pushed into making things that don’t fit into my lifestyle. So I skip sew frugal.

[@knottygnome]

good for you! it can be hard to go against the grain sometimes.

[@loreleig5062]

I really liked the Little Pomegranate Sabina skirt pattern, I found the sizing for me was a little large, but a nice design. I will sew it again. Thanks for your video.

[@knottygnome]

so glad you enjoyed it!

[@lyndagasper4346]

I think the pencil skirt looked great on you! Sometimes we are our own worst critic.

[@knottygnome]

it might look ok in the photos but i'm wearing nude pumps that are super uncomfortable. trust me, i tried the skirt with flats and sneakers and it wasn't a good look. in this case the aesthetics just didn't match with practicality. but thank you though!

[@robyn3349]

Thank you, Sara, for sharing your experience!

[@knottygnome]

You're very welcome! glad you enjoyed it.

[@vickyrobin4803]

I'm with you in the galena sleeve fan club, love them! I really love the bodice of that dress too, I've made a few basic tshirt tops using it as a base 😊

[@knottygnome]

i've thought about doing that too. it's such a nice shape.

[@nancyhurt7145]

New follower! I’ve been sewing for one of my granddaughters that is about your size, so I like your reviews and seeing your makes. Will be trying several!

[@knottygnome]

i'm glad i could help! thank you for watching.

[@robinhudson6800]

I have made the P4P free pencil skirt several times and really like it. I will say picking fabric with the right amount of stretch is important. One of mine is a little tight and the other one is perfect. I have also made the Mandy Boat tee in the smallest size and it fits ok, not sure I would make it again but I do wear the one I have. I might give the Sabina skirt a try because it looks so cute on you. I am also very petite, 5' and usually a XS-S in patterns, although I have found many patterns where the smallest size is still too big for me.

[@knottygnome]

that must be frustrating, not to be able to find your size. the Sabina is super popular so i'm sure if you look on IG you'll find lots of examples besides mine for inspiration.

[@MichelleSewsAgain]

Great review Sara! You might have inspired me to try the Closet Core tee - I love their block, it fits me well. Thanks so much for all the details!

[@knottygnome]

you're welcome! hope you like it as much as i do.

[@stacydemeester]

Re: the red/orange dress- have you considered dyeing it? It might help your opinion of it! ❤

[@knottygnome]

I don't dye yarns/fabrics anymore because I had a bad allergic reaction in the past. but thank you for the suggestion!

[@jamies82]

I also made a Stellan and won't make another. Doubt the drag lines are a size issue - after I made it I realized the shoulders are almost a horizontal line - I have flat shoulders and still have terrible drag lines!

[@knottygnome]

i have heard that others had issues with the Stellan as well, but OTOH some people don't seem to have any problems. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@robynlaszlo6128]

Thank for the review its great information 😊😊

[@knottygnome]

My pleasure 😊

[@sherrelstroot3034]

Thank you for this review. I would love it if you were to participate in this challenge but choose more carefully and share your rationale. As I listened to your video I realized that for me "FREE" will outweigh everything then I have another item to hang in my closet until I am over the guilt and can give it away!

[@knottygnome]

it's good to know i'm not the only one! i think i may have just found a project that i want to make. hopefully i will have enough time to get it done for the challenge.

[@alisonmurray8099]

I agree about being careful choosing to take part in challenges. I have a couple of garments that have never been worn because I fell into this trap! Currently taking part in last sewist standing to avoid buying fabric, so sewing my stash and using existing patterns.

[@knottygnome]

yes, sadly i've done the same multiple times. i'm getting better though, at least i hope so.

[@jennetthamilton971]

Thanks for sharing your likes and dislikes. I like the Stellan T but I did some changes. I changed the sleeves to fit on my shoulders, a drop shoulder just doesn't suit me. I made the neckline a bit lower, and I lengthened the body, maybe 2 inches. I've decided for the frugal challenge to stick to basics, long and short sleeve tshirts. And I also found a simple girl's dress, no fastenings, for my little great neices. I made a dress for the first challenge and only wore it once. I need to repurpose it somehow. I did make a work jacket from The Fabric Store, and it's a staple in my wardrobe.

[@knottygnome]

making closet staples sounds like a great strategy!

[@leonabraithwaite8881]

I have found the same thing with some free patterns. I feel like the fit is off. I love sewing and because my time is limited, I can’t really make toiles. However, I don’t want to make a habit of wasting fabric. I enjoy a little challenge though

[@knottygnome]

i definitely tend to stick to free patterns from established companies. to me it's too risky to try out someone completely new--i will leave that to others. 😄

[@leonabraithwaite8881]

@@knottygnome to be honest, I even found that the fit with some Mood patterns is off too.

[@anitaz4961]

Me while watchung this video while hemming a flounce on the Milana Dress; "Oh thank god its not just me who thinks its a tight squeeze to wiggle into the skirt" I think il going to pivot a little and add a zip :)

[@knottygnome]

i think that's probably a wise choice!

[@anitaz4961]

@@knottygnome It worked! But the arm holes are really small for some reason, so now i need to unpick the bias binding and reshape are the arm hole

[@lesfibresfantastiques7265]

Watching this wearing my stellan tee...😂

[@knottygnome]

i still wear mine. 😃

[@sparkleinco2035]

mandy boat tee was terrible for me. I have thin arms and I looked like a skeleton. Got rid of it.

[@janfranklin2114]

I really struggled with this pattern. I had to put in a gusset under the arm to make it work, and even then it was just great

[@knottygnome]

it was everywhere for awhile! sounds like a lot of us got caught up in the hype.

[@michellewaters1246]

I tried making the Mandy tee and didn’t fit, . Maybe it just wasn’t my style. I will try closet core t shirt next.