Many plus size women have become discouraged by boring and unattractive ready-to-wear apparel, so they have turned to patterns and their sewing machines to fill their closets. Expand you wardrobe with clothing that fits using free patterns that flatter your full-figure and curves.
Membership Sites With Free Patterns
The following are wonderful sites that offer free plus size sewing patterns in a variety of styles. Each site requires registering for their free membership to download and print patterns. Registration only takes a few minutes and you are not sharing any personal financial information.
Burda Style has free sewing patterns for plus size women in a variety of different types of apparel in sizes 18 and above. Many of the patterns on the site are uploaded by other members and range in difficulty from novice to expert. You will find free plus size patterns for tops, skirts and dresses. The offerings constantly change and more are added daily. Check back frequently to see what is new.
To locate the patterns enter "free plus size" in the search field. Scroll down the search results for the categories where the search term is present. For more results enter "free patterns" in the search field, since many of individual patterns have multiple sizes from small to plus. You will need to sift through more patterns, but you are more likely to find patterns with plus sizes that are not listed under just a plus size search.
Craftsy
Craftsy is another great source for free plus size sewing patterns. In addition to sewing, this site covers a variety of crafting categories. Craftsy is easy to navigate and they offer a variety of patterns no matter your style or comfort level. You will find tailored jackets, casual tunics and tops, dresses for comfort, business or partying and skirts that are classic or flirty.
After joining Craftsy, you will have access to the community, pattern downloads, online classes, projects, reference library, supply shopping and the blog. To locate the free plus size sewing patterns, click patterns under the community tab and enter "free plus size patterns" in the search field. Narrow down your search further by ticking "sewing", "plus-size" and "free" in the filter column on the left. There are other options available to tick, but they may remove some of the key options. While narrowed down, pattern results will still require sifting to find relevant patterns to your search.
Sew Tina Givens
Sew Tina Givens is a must-have resource for your sewing bookmarks. She describes her style as a cross between bohemian, African, Colonial, Victorian and 1920s romance. Her designs are layered, relaxed, playful and feminine, and her patterns are quick, easy projects for anybody to achieve a successful outcome. After signing up and logging in, click on the free-bees link to start downloading patterns. While there are only five free patterns available through Sew Tina Givens, they are versatile patterns that can be mixed and matched to create several outfits in a variety of fabrics and colors. You will find free patterns for bloomer pantaloons, a full and flowing slip dress, a tunic dress with split sides, the Kika dress that is designed to fit loose, and the bloom dress that has a split in the front with a ruffled insert.
Do not be deterred by the sizes that range from Small to Large. These sizes are the way she labels her patterns. As stated on her site, the most vital measurements for Sew Tina Givens patterns are the bust and hips. Each piece was designed to be roomy. Since most of these free patterns flow asymmetrically (except for the bloomers), use your bust measurement. Most plus size women will need to select the size L pattern, which generally fits bust measurements of 44"-46". For the bloomers, also select the size L pattern for hips 42"-43".
More Plus Size Sewing Patterns
There is a plethora of sewing sites and blogs that are more than happy to share their plus size patterns for free. If you haven't found the perfect pattern yet, browse through these links for more free plus size sewing patterns.
This cute A-line top from On the Cutting Floor will be a perfect addition to your wardrobe for summer, or under a jacket this fall. Featuring a boat-neck neckline and inseam pockets, this pattern is available in sizes 4 to 22. This pattern does require a short zipper, but if you are new to inserting one, this is a great project to practice on.
This casual short sleeve hoodie is made using jersey fabric (click on the image link to get the pattern). It is a simple pattern that gives the option of using a twin needle. This pattern is available in sizes 4 to 22.
Short Sleeve Hoodie Pattern in Sizes up to 22Who says you have to buy sweatshirts ready-to-wear? Add to your casual outfits with this long sleeve raglan top, also from On the Cutting Floor. The skill level for this pattern is stated as "confident beginner" and is available in sizes 4 to 22.
This adorable dress pattern from The Little Studio is a must-have for your closet. Reminiscent of the little-black-dress, you can, of course, make it in any color you desire. The pattern is available in sizes 6 to 22, and comes with two downloads, one for the bodice and a template for the circle skirt.
Every woman needs a maxi skirt and the free pattern at Simple Simon and Co. is the one you want. The PDF is available in sizes XS to XXL. Perfect project for beginner to advanced sewers.
Did you know you can make your own panties? Use the pattern at The Happy Seamstress to stitch undies using two-way stretch fabric, or recycle your old t-shirts. This pattern is easy to follow and is available in sizes XS to 2X.
Make an adorable cabana dress that fits you perfectly with the easy-to-use pattern from I Heart Jenny's Art. You follow the pattern she provides, but use your own measurements, so you know you'll get the right fit. The cute dress with its empire waist style is a flattering look for plus sizes, too.
Free Make-Your-Own Patterns
Not all patterns require a printer. Draft your own using the simple instructions for the following projects.
While this peasant blouse tutorial from Sewing.org doesn't offer an actual printable pattern, it has simple and clear instructions on creating your own. Assemble the blouse using one or several coordinating fabrics.
Bat-wing Tunic TopThis bat-wing tunic top from Be A Crafter is another pattern (click on the image link to see it) that you will need to draft using your measurements. Want a dress? Simply extend the length. This project is appropriate for a beginner.
Kimonos have become increasing popular as casual jackets. You'll look hip wearing this as a casual topper for a t-shirt and jeans outfit. Try the pattern tutorial at The Dangerous Mezzo. Made from basic rectangular pieces you draft according to your own measurements, this kimono can easily be completed in an evening.
Mix and Match Patterns
Do you have a pattern that you like, but it doesn't have the exact vogue you are looking for? After you have amassed a supply of plus size patterns, you can create your own designs by exchanging pattern pieces such as sleeves or collars. You will need to keep your measurements in mind as you alter or overlap lines, but the end result will be a one-of-a-kind garment that allows your unique style to shine.
