What’s the Project? Looking for some easy beginner sewing projects to get you started sewing and comfortable on your machine? Here are 25 easy and free sewing patterns that are perfect for beginners.
I know who you are! You’ve got a brand new sewing machine (or brand new to you anyway—maybe it’s been sitting in a closet for a while but you are too scared to use it) and you dream of sewing up fancy and fun things, but it’s hard isn’t it? You’re new and it can be frustrating trying to sew projects when your sewing skills are still young.
No worries though because I’ve got your back! Sewing doesn’t have to be terribly hard. In addition to a whole bunch of Learn to Sew lessons, I’ve also got a whole bunch of beginner sewing projects gathered together for you today. These easy sewing tutorials and free sewing patterns that you can try as a beginning sewer.
Are you ready for these?!
Most of these easy beginner sewing projects are just straight lines and some simple skills. If you aren’t comfortable with any of the skills listed, try my free Learn to Sew Lessons, they might help. Good luck as you get going on all of these beginner sewing projects and sewing crafts!
Also, if you are really new, here’s a full rundown of Sewing for Beginners to get you started!
Quick Sewing Tips for Beginners:
A few things to make sure you’re aware of before you get started as well:
- Have a seam ripper on hand. Mistakes are part of the process, so plan on using it and don’t feel bad about it for one second. I’ve been sewing for years and I still use it all the time.
- Practice, practice, practice. You’re not going to sew a great straight line the first time you sit down to sew. It’s going to take some work and practice and that’s totally ok. The more you sew, the easier it’s going to get.
- Choose patterns that are forgiving. The easy sewing projects that I’ve included here are things that are mostly going to be very forgiving if your lines aren’t straight or you make a few mistakes. Clothes are a little less forgiving, so it can be great to start out with things like bags and pillowcases.
- When you try to sew a straight line, the easiest way to do it in my book is to use the side of the presser foot as your guide. Line the edge of the presser foot up with the edge of your fabric and try to keep it even as you sew. This gives you a visual to help keep things nice and straight as you go.
Now, let’s take a look at some of these projects! If you want more sewing tips and tricks, you can find them here.
25 Beginner Sewing Projects:
I hope you love these fun and simple beginner sewing projects! I’d love to hear which ones you are going to try out first! Most of them are from this Crazy Little Projects blog and a handful come from other great sources!
This little keychain chapstick holder makes a great gift–I’ve had lots of people tell me they’ve used it for that! Plus, if you mess up, it was only a fabric scrap that you’re out!
Chapstick Keychain Holder:
A great project either FOR your kids or to do WITH your kids if they are wanting to learn to sew. It’s a larger project and may take a little more patience, but it’s all straight stitches, so that makes it easier.
Library Tote Bag:
Great for college kids, this is a super simple project. I HIGHLY recommend trying this one if you’re a laptop user. The only slightly tricky thing about this one is that you’ll be sewing through thick fabric.
Laptop Case:
Here’s a similar one to the last one. Another super simple sewing project—a case for your iPad or another tablet. All straight lines. You could probably even size it down for a phone if you wanted.
Ipad Sleeve:
Easy and needed baby gift idea, these are really big blankets using flannel fabric. An easy project for you to try! Plus, the baby won’t care if it’s a little wonky. 😉
If you’re daring enough for a zipper… I love this project! It’s a simple pouch that’s pretty easy to sew and so cute when it’s done!
Easy Pencil Case:
Another favorite of mine and the top project on my site for many months. Bags are always fun to sew and bonus, you can add an interior pocket.
Easy Tote:
Made this for my littlest when he was born 10 years ago. It’s super cozy and makes a great gift too! An easy project because it’s all straight lines, though it does take a little longer than some.
Easy Baby Blanket:
This DIY baby bib is a SUPER simple pattern, it’s inexpensive, useful and I think you’ll love making it!
Baby Bibs:
I love a good pool bag! And this is an absolute favorite of mine! It turned out so cute. Also could be a good chance to try your hand at knit fabrics.
Summer Bag:
SOO easy and a great place to start! This will keep your ears warm in the winter and it’s one of the easiest projects you can try! Give it a go! (Unless you live somewhere really warm.)
Ear Warmer Headband:
Infinity scarves or reversible scarves make a great starter project. Here’s a cute option:
A simple drawstring bag is another great way to get started! Not much to it!
A little more daring but hey—you don’t even have to wear them in public, so you can do this! A great practice project for using elastic.
I love this one! I used to make these all the time for my kiddos and actually even had a business selling them for a while. Make a cute, personalized superhero cape for your little person.
Superhero Cape:
Maybe my very favorite baby gift idea? I love these carriers and it’s unique—not something they are likely to get. Or make some for yourself. I used them all the time when my kids were little. Keep one in the car, one in the stroller, wherever you need them.
Diaper and Wipes Carrier:
Maybe make the diaper carrier to match these simple burp cloths? Wouldn’t that be cute? These are also quite easy! And very handy.
Burp Cloths:
If you’re always losing your keys, this is the project for you! A great way to use scraps too.
Key Fobs:
Great for kids—to carry or to sew. And how cute is this little bag?
Mini Messenger Bag:
This would be a unique but fun project for sewing novices to make for the kids.
Easy Belts:
Another bib. This one is great because it’s made with a towel which makes it super absorbent. I used them all the time when my kids were little.
If you make this one then you HAVE to make a skillet cookie, right? And they are the BEST!
Skillet Handle Cover:
Keep your glasses or sunglasses from getting scratched with this little case.
Sunglasses Case Pattern:
Similar to some others on this page, how about a little phone holder? It can even clip to something!
Phone Holder:
How cute are these little guys? You’ve GOT to try making these monsters. You could make a bunch!
I hope this has been helpful to see all of these easy project ideas for beginners—easier than scouring Pinterest anyway?
Have fun sewing these beginner sewing projects! If you are a beginning sewer just remember that sewing takes time, the seam ripper is your friend, and be patient with yourself. And remember that no one else is going to be as critical of your final results as you are…so go easy and make it fun!
And be sure to explore the site because I have TONS of sewing inspiration for you! Like these:
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Sewing Classes Online:
Sewing for Beginners:
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