Make these items with our selection of free patterns and improve your sewing skills

07/07/2023

We always want to inspire beginner crafters to try different projects, explore fresh ideas, and continue to improve their skills. And once you’ve made a few items with an assortment of fabrics, you’ll soon learn their different properties, and recognise which fabrics you can use for which projects!

Until then, we’ve prepared this selection of 5 ideas, together with their free patterns and each specific fabric you’re going to need, so you can get started straight away. You can easily download all patterns as a PDF. Let’s go!

5 easy ideas for your handmade summer

1. Basic short sleeve t-shirt

An absolute staple for the warmer seasons, in our Jersey fabric. This pattern is available for both kids’ and adult t-shirts. Kids’ sizes are from 12 months to 12 years and adults from sizes S to XXL. You could even make a matching family set.

Recommendations and tips:

• Jersey needle, SUK ball point / thickness: 70/80
• Make with low tension in the upper thread of the sewing machine and small stitch so that when we stretch the seams they don’t break the stitching. Avoid stretching the fabric when making so that the seams don’t yield.
• If you have an overlock machine (ideal for all seams) adjust the differential until you see the fabric does not stretch, sewing the twin needle hems for Jersey. 
• Steam or wash before cutting and sewing.
  
  

2. Padded backpack

For all those picnics, hikes, trips to the beach, and more. Here’s a handy and sturdy backpack you can take on your summer adventures, using our canvas fabric (you need a fabric that’s weightier than Poplin or Muslin).

Recommendations and tips:

• Universal needle, thickness: 80/90
• If many layers of fabric are sewn, using hard interlinings or wadding, adjust to a higher pressure of the presser foot of your sewing machine.
• We recommend steaming or washing the fabric before cutting and sewing.

  

  3. Triangular scarf with tassels

  The ideal piece for those post-sunset moments. This scarf is really lightweight, easy to customise to your style, and goes with anything! Choose one of our 3 striped Panamá fabrics to create your new favourite summer accessory.

Recommendations and tips:

• Universal needle, thickness: 70/80
• Other fabric options for this project are Muslin and Sari
• The Panamá fabric is also a great choice for flowy, lightweight clothing in general, so your creativity shouldn’t stop here.
• We recommend steaming or washing before cutting and making.
  
  

4. Women’s dress

Challenge yourself in all the right ways with this gorgeous, loose-fitting dress. Everyone will be asking where you got it from and you’ll be able to proudly say that it’s handmade and one of a kind.

Recommendations and tips:

• This model was made using Rustic cotton with a beautiful bird print, but you can also use other 100% cotton fabrics with a rustic effect (an unrefined, natural finish) or our Viyella fabric.
• Universal needle, thickness: 80/90.
• Steam or wash before cutting and sewing.

5. Reusable sandwich bag

   One of the handiest items to have in your kitchen so you’re always summer-picnic-ready! Plus, it’s a great eco-friendly alternative to aluminium foil and plastic wrap. Make your very own unique sandwich bag with this free and super easy-to-follow video tutorial.

Recommendations and tips:

• Sew using Poplin. It’s 100% cotton, very versatile, and easy to sew. It comes in a lot of fun and original prints.
• You’ll need a waterproof fabric or food plastic for the inner lining of this bag so it’s easy to clean.

We hope this selection has inspired you to embrace a new sewing project! Next, explore our entire range of fabrics. Or what about 10 more summer ideas, especially for the little ones!