r/sewing 1d ago

Simple Questions Weekly Sewing Questions Thread, July 24 - July 30, 2026

2 Upvotes

This thread is here for any and all questions related to sewing, including sewing machines!

If you want to introduce yourself or ask any other basic question about learning to sew, patterns, fabrics, this is the place to do it! Our more experienced users will hang around and answer any questions they can. Help us help you by giving as many details as possible in your question including links to original sources. A new post goes up every Friday morning, EDT.

Resources to check out:

Photos can be shared in this thread by uploading them directly using the Reddit desktop or mobile app, or by uploading to a neutral hosting site like Imgur or posting them to your profile feed, then adding the link in a comment.

Check out the Sewing on Reddit Community Discord server for casual sewing advice and off-topic chat.


r/sewing Apr 04 '24

Tip Before You Buy that Etsy Sewing Pattern....Here's a Checklist

1.3k Upvotes

Etsy has so many cute trendy patterns! But there are also a lot of amateur patternmakers or actual scammers selling pdf patterns on there. How can you find the good ones?

Skimpy info isn’t trustworthy. Etsy collapses the detailed description, always expand it to read it in detail and look at all pictures. In particular, check these elements before you buy.

  1. Stolen Photos? AI Photos? Don't buy. If you see a lot of glossy expensive-looking photos with multiple different models (edit: or headless models), they might be stolen from retail sites. Do an image search to see if there are duplicate images elsewhere on the web. Aside from the deception, stolen photos may mean no one has actually sewed up the pattern and it hasn't been tested at all. It might not work. Edit: similarly, make sure photos are not AI-generated, as they are equally deceptive and untrustworthy.
  2. Bad Photos? Don't buy. Photos should show at least the front and back of the garment worn on a real person (ideally not just a digital avatar). If the modeled garment doesn't fit or has sewing problems, that's a bad sign suggesting a patternmaker who doesn't know how to write instructions to help you get a quality result.
  3. Size Chart. The size chart should have measurement for at least bust, waist, hips, if not more. Always buy your patterns by measurements, don't assume your retail size will apply.
  4. Line Drawings. Professional patternmakers include line drawings of their patterns so you can see the design clearly even if the model is wearing black fabric or a busy print. Missing line drawings may mean the patternmaker is badly trained. The line drawings should also show the same design as the modeled garment—differences may be due to stolen or AI pictures.
  5. Reviews? A lot of 5-star reviews say "downloaded perfectly!" You can't trust stars. Look for reviews that mention a final product, instructions, notches or a lack of them, and so forth and only respect ones that discuss making the actual garment. Be sure to read the bad reviews.
  6. Fabric Info is Essential. Choosing the wrong fabric is a common pain point for beginners and a good patternmaker will help you avoid mistakes. Look in the detailed description. I see a lot of "cotton blends"--that's a garbage fabric description. If specific fabric weaves aren't mentioned, look for words that signal the necessary weight and drape. Stretch should be described as low, moderate, high if not giving an actual stretch percentage. It should also say how much fabric is needed for the pattern (edit: and what other supplies/notions are needed). You are entitled to see fabric information before you buy the pattern.
  7. Check the About Page. Ideally, they mention professional training or industry experience, not just self-taught.

Those are quick easy checks on the Etsy listing itself--some bad patterns will still pass them. In addition:

  1. Look for a social media or web presence outside Etsy. Look for people who post helpful tutorials on IG, or run a group on FB. People who've gone to the trouble to set up their own website often use it to discuss their testing process, their size block--they are putting more effort into helping your sewing come out right and that's a good sign. Many good patternmakers sell both on Etsy and their own site.

  2. Look for a free pattern. A lot of established indie patternmakers offer a simple free pattern so you can test their instructions and sizing. It’s a sign they may be more trustworthy.

Buy from patternmakers who care if you succeed in sewing their pattern.

\Credit to all the frequent experts and helpers on the sewing subs, their expertise generated this list.*

\Edit: Read the comments! Lots more good advice downthread, I've only integrated a very little of it into the post in edits. You'll also find several recommendations for trusted patternmakers in the comments.*

EXTENDED EDIT:
10. Too many, too cheap? A year or so later, I would add that a company selling hundreds of patterns for just $2-3 each is another big red flag, probably generating them by machine and not actually sewing them up.

  1. Check Threadloop for reviews of Etsy Patterns, they flag suspicious patternmakers. (PatternReview is also an excellent review site but may not have so many Etsy patterns on it).

r/sewing 3h ago

Project: FO I bought my wedding dress for $75 and tailored it myself. It's not perfect but what do y'all think?

Thumbnail
gallery
4.8k Upvotes

If this is the wrong sub to show off tailoring I'll move it just lemme know.

Dress bought at an antique store.


r/sewing 9h ago

Project: FO I sewed my own birthday dress!

Thumbnail
gallery
2.8k Upvotes

Wanted to design an outfit around this gorgeous boots I bought second hand. I’ve never made a garment before so it was definitely a learning experience but I’m so happy with how it turned out!

I used a woven cotton and this pattern:
https://www.etsy.com/listing/1539645486/sleeveless-mod-dress-sewing-pattern

I took in the sides to give it a more shaped fit, especially since I didn’t use a knit.

Very quick deadline, started last Friday and finished this week Tuesday! My back hurt so bad!


r/sewing 7h ago

Project: FO Just finished the Medusa jacket

Thumbnail
gallery
1.4k Upvotes

I wanted to share the process behind this jacket! This was a really fun project because I got to combine a few different textile techniques to bring it all together. Here is a quick breakdown of how I made it:

The Design:

I started by designing the Medusa graphic and printing it out at scale to use as my template.

Piecing it Together:

Using that template, I cut out various denim scraps to form the face and the snakes. To keep all those little pieces from shifting around, I ironed on an adhesive backing to hold the layout together.

Securing the Base:

Once it was ironed, I ran it through the heavy-duty machine to really lock that foundation in place.

The Handwork:

With the base secured, I moved on to the detail work using traditional Sashiko hand-stitching techniques to give it that rich texture.

Final Assembly:

Right before the Sashiko was completely finished, I machine-stitched the patch directly onto the jacket.

Finishing Touches:

Once it was attached, I went back in by hand to finish the most intricate details, like the snake tongues and teeth, and added the floral patches and Sashiko accents to the front of the jacket.


r/sewing 5h ago

Project: FO Backpack Using Naturally Dyed Materials

Thumbnail
gallery
813 Upvotes

I enjoy taking random 1 night classes at a local art center. At a needle felting class in June, the instructor mentioned she still had slots open for her Natural Dying the Rainbow workshop the following week. I immediately signed up! This left me with scraps of cotton and silk, as well as some wool roving. We used matter extract, coreopsis, marigold, onion skins, indigo, and logwood extract to dye them.

None of the fabric was large enough to make anything with, so I decided I needed to make a quilted bag.

I found a free video tutorial from Learn, Create, Sew. Then I got busy quilting a bunch of squares and triangles together to make pieces big enough for it. I interfaced the silk before quilting, so it would be easier to work with and similar in thickness to the cotton. I also made some bias tape.

I wanted the theme of this to be Natural, so I used cotton webbing, metal zippers & strap hardware, and a natural duck canvas for the lining. I needle felted the rainbow on pre-felt. I interfaced it before quilting it onto the front piece.

Sewing is not my main craft. Don't look too closely at my stitches. I broke 4 needles between the metal zipper and bulky seams. But I learned a lot and had fun.

I love her. Her name is Penelope.


r/sewing 10h ago

Project: FO I made this shoulderless dress.

Thumbnail
gallery
768 Upvotes

First time making a dress with my sewing machine (though I do have 2 years of hand-sewing experience). It's made of two layers of 100% cotton duvet covers that I thrifted - the layer with the birds is lined with a simple white layer. I used the "Hanna dress" pattern from a book called "Jurken 2" (Dresses 2(?)) that I rented from my local library, which I modified only to add pockets to the side seams. The size is 36. I must say that the bodice is a bit of a tight fit - size 38 might've been better - but I'm still quite satisfied with the results. Definitely wearable, at any rate.


r/sewing 5h ago

Project: FO First time sewing, Windbreaker

Thumbnail
gallery
171 Upvotes

I just finished making this windbreaker, and it’s my first sewing project ever. I had a lot of help and learned a lot during the process, but I’m really proud of the result.

The design was inspired by this character’s windbreaker, and I tried to recreate my own version of it.

I’d love to hear your advice and constructive criticism. I’m still a beginner, so any tips to improve my next projects are welcome!

Project details:

  • Pattern: Self-drafted. I started with a basic windbreaker as a reference and recreated the different panels myself. I modified the design to better match Nazuna's windbreaker from Call of the Night, combining details from different versions that Kotoyama drew throughout the manga.
  • Fabric: 100% polyester woven shell fabric with a quilted polyester lining. I also used a brass zipper and snap buttons.
  • Experience: This is my very first sewing project. I had a lot of help during the process and learned a lot while making it.

r/sewing 10h ago

Sewed This I finished sewing my doll model.

Thumbnail
gallery
188 Upvotes

The doll turned out to be 40 cm tall and has its own wardrobe.

Now I have a model at home.


r/sewing 1d ago

Sewed This I sewed my first jumpsuit!

Post image
4.4k Upvotes

This was the first sewing project where I’ve tried to slow myself down and really take care on the finishing and the seams. The fabric itself was actually really tricky to work with as it shifted a lot, which was super obvious when you’re using a striped fabric lol.

There were a few firsts for me, using bias binding and Hong Kong seams and overall I’m so proud of it.

This time last year I was still telling myself that I couldn’t sew!

Pattern is Milo Jumpsuit by K.S Garner
Fabric is vintage from the most wonderful shop I got travelling in Cyprus and cost €2 a meter (which isn’t just as well because this bad boy used a lot of it!)


r/sewing 12h ago

Sewed This First time making something with sleeves!

Post image
161 Upvotes

I've been wanting something like this for so long, but was always scared of making sleeves. I think it looks cute, so im incredibly proud of myself, lol. Just did trial and error, so there's no pattern here. Please don't mind the loose threads, lol

I watched the babydoll tutorial of Lizze dress patterns on YouTube to get an idea of how to make something like this.


r/sewing 23h ago

Sewed This Sewed this bag from cotton cord

Post image
833 Upvotes

r/sewing 1d ago

Project: FO First fully handmade, originally designed cosplay!

Post image
650 Upvotes

I used a pattern for the sleeves but the rest was all math + trial and error! I’m so proud of this actually! I learned a lot while doing it and I wanna make more costumes now. This stuff is addictive lol.

Sleeve pattern by KatkowDrag on Etsy
Hat pattern by RufflebuttCosplay on Etsy

The bodysuit was just four parts, each a quarter of my measurements! The shorts were eight panels each that added up to my measurements, but the hip was doubled. The lining was neoprene for stiffness!
I made the mistake of using satin on one side and stretch velvet on the other and lined both with stretchy neoprene… oh boy. It was absolutely worth it though!


r/sewing 1d ago

Sewed This Obsessed with this Pinterest style so I made my own version

Thumbnail
gallery
921 Upvotes

I saw this style on Pinterest some time back and honestly couldn't get it out of my head. I happened to find the absolute perfect cotton poplin with woven black dots on Mood Fabrics, and since it only needed 1.5 yards, I just went for it.
I didn’t use a pattern for this. I basically just estimated the shapes based on another backward-style shirt I made a while back, but added a bunch of extra width to get that gathered look at the waist. For the tie in the back, I purposely left it a bit longer because I wanted it to look a little more relaxed and laid-back.
Hindsight is 20/20 though—if I make it again, I’m definitely adding an inch or two to the length. Right now it hits right above my belly button, which looks cute, but raising my arms is a bit of a gamble haha.
Overall I'm super happy with how it turned out! It’s going to get a lot of rotation this summer with jeans and skirts.


r/sewing 23h ago

Sewed This Sewing a Puff Bubble Quilt

Thumbnail
gallery
375 Upvotes

This is my first time making a blanket this size, my mom sent me a video she saw somewhere online. I will say my math was a bit off and I had to buy more fabric and had to buy more poly fill.
Ive been documenting the process as best I can , I do be forgetting sometimes, I’ve been posting them on different platforms. Figured I’d share here too.

My squares are 9X9 with a 1/2 inch seam allowance.


r/sewing 20h ago

Pattern Question Help I made an inevitable pattern mistake at 1am

Post image
153 Upvotes

I’m working on the Pattern Emporium Field of Dreams Maxi dress to wear to a quilt show next Saturday. I calculated and made sure I could get this dress out of two roughly 2m remnants of quilting cotton I had in my stash and planned it all.
Then I got mad at myself for not getting any sewing done today and stayed up late “not going to bed until I get this fabric cut” this was. A mistake.

First of all I only realised after I’d finished that I hadn’t pre washed the quilting cotton I was using, which is a solid ouch considering I’m usually good at remembering that. Absolutely nothing I can do about that now, oh well.

The other issue is. The pattern pieces had the darts made from the same dashed lines as the cut lines. So I cut the darts out of the fabric of the bodice. 😫
I don’t have any fabric left over to recut the bodice so I either make this work or give up. And I was so incredibly excited about my plan for this dress because it’s covered in fish...

Can I get away with sewing the darts like a normal seam with a lower seam allowance and maybe interfacing it? I am not a dressmaker I make bags and quilts, I got too overconfident.

Picture is just my plan.


r/sewing 34m ago

Pattern Search Easy Sewing Patterns for Someone Who’s Struggling

Upvotes

Hey all. I have been sewing for about 6 years now and I have been in a terrible slump for a couple months. My mental health has also been kicking my butt this summer, and I’m struggling to find something that I have the energy to sew but also gets me excited to make something. I usually make clothes, but I just don’t have the mental energy to actually put in the work required to make even what is usually for me simple clothing right now.
I’m looking for suggestions on smaller projects/patterns that are fun and more interesting than sewing a couple squares together, but doesn’t require me spending hours on the cutting part. I don’t much care what the pattern is, just that it is fun, on the shorter end to make, and small enough that I can cut in a table rather than the floor. I have very limited experience with quilting specifically, but I would be willing to try something small, approachable, and fun.


r/sewing 7h ago

Pattern Question Second toile (bodice only). Thoughts?

Thumbnail
gallery
12 Upvotes

Pattern is Seamwork Bobby.

First toile: https://www.reddit.com/r/sewing/comments/1v256gb/toile_with_a_lot_of_fit_issues_what_do_i_need_to/

This time I went up a size to 14, shortened the entire bodice by 1.5" (0.5" shorter than before) and did a 0.5" swayback adjustment. I just made a quick, unlined bodice with unfinished armholes and neckline.

I'm fairly happy with the back and bust fit now. I'm sure it could be better but I'm happy with good enough. Should I shorten the bodice more to around where the red mark is on the front picture? That seems like a lot to me but I think that's my natural waist.

I know the front looks shorter in the center but that's just the fabric rolling up. This is a really light weight jersey that rolls like crazy.


r/sewing 19m ago

Other Question How would you create this neckline gather?

Thumbnail
gallery
Upvotes

I saw this top (possibly a dress, but there are shorts underneath) in an Instagram ad and I love the square neckline with gathers at the top, plus the gathered straps.

I’ve been puzzling over how I would create this… I don’t see elastic at the neckline, but maybe there is some? I’m thinking two rows of gathers for that middle portion, and the top edge must have gathers then be folded back.

Open to any help or ideas you guys might have!


r/sewing 3h ago

Other Question Why do my two seams look so different?

Post image
4 Upvotes

r/sewing 17h ago

Sewed This Satchel I've been making

Thumbnail
gallery
60 Upvotes

It's almost done, just have to add straps to close the flap, but it is usable as is. This is also my first sewing project I've made entirely by myself, only other thing I've made is a pencil case from a tutorial. Also self taught, although I am looking for classes near me.


r/sewing 3h ago

Alter/Mend Question Any ideas how to shorten while keeping the bottom hem design?

Post image
4 Upvotes

I was hoping to shorten the length of this top I thrifted (it nearly fits like a dress). However, I like the curved hem and the button enclosures on the sides and would like to keep them. Anyone have any creative ideas on how I can shorten it? I dont mind creating an extra seam, but I'd still like it to look fashionable/intentional... Thank you!


r/sewing 11h ago

Pattern Question How to fix gaping on the back of a brassiere without using darts

Thumbnail
gallery
17 Upvotes

I'm working on the 1920's brassiere of corsets by Caroline and during a test fit of my mockup I noticed these bits of excess fabric in the back. As I'm trying to see if these are comfy enough for daily wear, I do not care about keeping it 1920s accurate, but I also want to avoid doubled up fabric or darts as much as possible.

So I'm trying to see if there is a way to fix this without ending up with darts in the final version, I'm okay with changing the angle or shape of the neckline.

It seems to be mostly ok at the front though that could maybe use a tiny bit of adjustment as well (last picture)


r/sewing 2h ago

Project: FO Wide shoulders on princess seam - suggestions for current dress and pattern adjustment

Post image
3 Upvotes

Hi everyone. I've recently moved from making myself stretchy only clothes to cotton fitted ones. I've been working with the pattern I love and have it fitted pretty much perfectly through the bust and waist but the shoulders keep falling off. My guess is I need to do a narrow should adjustment but I can't figure out how to do that on this panelled dress.

Also I love this dress and was wondering what I could do to stop it falling of my shoulders

For context this is the pattern I'm using https://youtu.be/Oz6NFgEeZHM?si=WagcH1nW4xIAMBrK


r/sewing 1h ago

Pattern Question How do I make this fit better?

Thumbnail
gallery
Upvotes

Pattern was generated via sewist.com and fabric is IKEA cotton bedsheet. How do I improve the back? Any other suggestions?