If you love wearing t-shirts, try making your own with these 25 free t shirt patterns you can print and sew at home for women, men, girls, boys and kids. You can customize your t-shirts with different fabrics, colors, prints, and styles to suit your personality and mood. Whether you prefer a classic tee, a raglan sleeve, a ruffle sleeve, or a knot front, there is a free t shirt pattern for you. You can also add logos, slogans, or other embellishments to make your t-shirts unique and fun.
One of the benefits of sewing your own t-shirts is that you can choose the fit and length that flatter your body type. You can also adjust the neckline, sleeve length, and hemline to your liking. Some free t shirt sewing patterns come in multiple sizes, including plus sizes, so you can find the one that works best for you. You can also mix and match different patterns to create your own designs.
Sewing your own t-shirts is a creative and rewarding hobby and a way to save money and reduce waste. You can use leftover fabrics from other projects or upcycle old clothes into new t-shirts. You can also make t-shirts for your family and friends as gifts or sell them online with customized woven labels and hang tags. By sewing your own t-shirts, you can express your style and personality while being eco-friendly and economical. Let's explore our 25 free t shirt patterns with detailed step by step instructions, pdf pattern and video tutorial.
How to Sew Your Own T-Shirts with Free Patterns
T-shirts are one of the most versatile and comfortable garments you can have in your wardrobe. You can wear them with jeans, skirts, shorts, leggings, and more. They can also express your personality, style, and mood with different colors, prints, and designs.
But what if you want to make your own t-shirts at home? You can save money, customize your fit, or create something unique and original. Or you may enjoy sewing and want to try a new project.
Whatever your reason, sewing your own t-shirts is easier than you might think. All you need is some fabric, a sewing machine, and a free t-shirt pattern. Here, we will show you how to choose and use free t-shirt patterns and give you some tips and tricks to make your t-shirts look professional and stylish.
What You Need to Sew Your Own T-Shirts
Before you start sewing your own t-shirts, you will need to gather some materials and tools. Here is a list of materials that you will need:
1. Fabric:
The most common fabric for t-shirts is jersey knit, which is a stretchy and soft fabric that drapes well and is comfy to wear. You can find jersey knit fabric in different weights, colors, prints, and blends. Some popular blends are cotton jersey, rayon jersey, bamboo jersey, and polyester jersey.
You can also use other types of knit fabrics for t-shirts, such as interlock knit, rib knit, or French terry knit. Just make sure that the fabric has enough stretch and recovery for the pattern you are using.
You can check the stretch by pulling a piece of fabric across a ruler and measuring how much it stretches. You can check the recovery by releasing the fabric and seeing how well it returns to its original shape.
2. Sewing machine:
You can sew knit fabrics with a regular sewing machine or a serger. A serger is a machine that cuts and finishes the edges of the fabric as it sews, creating a neat and professional look.
However, if you don't have a serger, you can still sew knit fabrics with a regular sewing machine by using a stretch stitch or a zigzag stitch. These stitches allow the seam to stretch with the fabric and prevent it from breaking or puckering.
You will also need to use a ballpoint needle or a stretch needle for your sewing machine, which has rounded tips that glide through the knit fabric without snagging or damaging it.
3. Free t-shirt pattern:
There are many free t-shirt patterns available below that you can download and print at home. Some of these patterns are designed for specific sizes or styles, while others are more versatile and customizable.
You must choose a pattern that suits your skill level, body type, and personal preference. Plus, you'll need to measure yourself and compare your measurements to the pattern's size chart to find the best fit. You may need to adjust the pattern if your measurements fall between sizes or if you want to make any changes to the design.
4. Other tools:
Besides the fabric, sewing machine, and pattern, you will also need some basic sewing tools such as scissors, pins, tape measure, ruler, chalk or fabric marker, iron and ironing board.
How to Use Free T-Shirt Patterns
Once you have gathered all your materials and tools, you are ready to use your free t-shirt pattern. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Download and print the pattern:
Find a free t-shirt pattern that you like and download it to your computer. Most patterns come in PDF format that you can open with Adobe Reader or another PDF viewer. Make sure you print the pattern at 100% scale or actual size without scaling or cropping. You may need to print multiple pages depending on the size of the pattern pieces. You will also need to check if the pattern has any test squares or markers that you can measure to ensure that the pattern is printed correctly.
2. Assemble and cut out the pattern:
After printing the pattern pages, you will need to assemble them together by matching the symbols or lines on each page. You can use tape or glue to stick them together. Then cut out the pattern pieces along the lines indicated on the pattern. Some patterns may have different lines for different sizes or options, so make sure that you cut out the ones that match your size and style.
3. Prepare and cut out the fabric:
Before cutting out your fabric pieces, you will need to prepare your fabric. This means washing and drying your fabric according to the care instructions and ironing it if needed.
This will prevent any shrinkage or distortion of your fabric after sewing. Then fold your fabric in half with the right sides together and the selvages aligned. Place your pattern pieces on top of the fabric, following the grainline and layout instructions on the pattern.
Pin or weigh down the pattern pieces to the fabric and cut them out with a rotary cutter and cutting mat. A rotary cutter will give you a smoother and more accurate cut than scissors. Make sure to transfer any markings from the pattern to the fabric with chalk or a fabric marker.
4. Sew the t-shirt:
Follow the sewing instructions on the pattern to sew your t-shirt together. You will need to use a stretch stitch or a zigzag stitch on your sewing machine to sew knit fabrics. These stitches will allow the seam to stretch with the fabric and prevent it from breaking or puckering.
You will also need to use a ballpoint needle or a stretch needle for your sewing machine, which has rounded tips that glide through the knit fabric without snagging or damaging it. If you have a serger, you can use it to sew and finish the seams at the same time, creating a neat and professional look.
However, if you don't have a serger, you can still sew knit fabrics with a regular sewing machine by using a stretch stitch or a zigzag stitch. You can also finish the raw edges of the seams with a zigzag stitch, an overlock stitch, or a pinking shear. Some knit fabrics don't fray and don't need any seam finishing at all.
5. Hem and finish the t-shirt:
The last step is to hem and finish your t-shirt. You can hem your t-shirt by folding the raw edge of the fabric under twice and stitching it in place with a stretch stitch or a zigzag stitch. You can also use a twin needle to create a double row of stitching that looks like a cover stitch. A twin needle is two needles attached to one shank that sew two parallel lines of stitching on the right side of the fabric and a zigzag on the wrong side of the fabric. This creates a hem that is stretchy and professional-looking.
To use a twin needle:
You will need two spools of thread and an extra bobbin case for your sewing machine. You can also use some soft stretch hem tape to stabilize the hem and prevent it from stretching out of shape. Hem tape is a fusible tape that you can iron on the wrong side of the fabric along the hemline. It will help the fabric hold its shape and make it easier to sew.
To finish your t-shirt:
You will need to sew the neckline and the sleeves. You can use a rib knit fabric or a self-fabric to make a band that you can sew to the neckline and the sleeves. A band is a strip of fabric that is folded in half and sewn to the edge of the fabric with a stretch stitch or a zigzag stitch. The band should be smaller than the edge of the fabric to create a snug fit.
You can also utilize a bias tape maker to make your own bias tape from knit fabric and use it to finish the neckline and the sleeves. Bias tape is a strip of cloth that is cut on the bias (diagonal) and folded over twice. It can be used to enclose the raw edge of the fabric and create a clean finish.
Congratulations! You have just sewn your own t-shirt! You can now wear it proudly or make more in different colors and prints.
Find Free T-Shirt Patterns
We featured 25 free t-shirt patterns for women, men, and kids. You can find classic tees, raglan tees, knot front tees, and scoop top tees for different skill levels.
1. Free Knit Tee Shirt Sewing Pattern
Learn how to construct a knit tee shirt from scratch with this detailed tutorial from Live Free Creative Co. You'll discover how to make your own pattern from a favorite tee or your measurements, how to cut and sew knit fabric with a sewing machine or a serger, and how to finish the neckline, hem, and sleeves with different techniques.
This free t-shirt sewing pattenr will teach you the basics of sewing with knits and help you create your own custom tee shirts that fit well and look great. Whether you want to make a simple tee, a raglan tee, or a ruffle sleeve tee, this tutorial will show you how to stretch yourself and your sewing skills.
2. Ruffle Sleeve Raglan T Shirt Pattern
Add some flair to your closet with this pretty ruffle sleeve raglan tee sewing tutorial from It's Always Autumn. You'll learn how to use a free PDF pattern in women's size large to make a raglan tee shirt with ruffled bell sleeves. This DIY t shirt sewing tutorial will show you how to cut and sew knit fabric, how to gather and attach the ruffles, and how to finish the neckline and hem. This is a fun and easy t-shirt sewing project that will give you a cute and comfortable top that you can wear all year round.
3. Simple Chelsea Linen Raglan Tee - Free Pattern
Sew your own linen raglan tee with this free pattern and tutorial from Fabrics-store.com. This simple and stylish tee features raglan sleeves, a round neckline, and delicate pleats at the front and back. You'll love working with lightweight linen that is soft, breathable, and easy to care for. This t shirt sewing pattern will guide you through the steps of cutting, sewing, and finishing your linen tee with clear instructions and photos. This is a great project for beginners who want to try sewing with linen and create a versatile wardrobe staple.
4. Sewing a Classic Top for Ladies
Sew a classic tee shirt with a twist with this free pattern from It's Always Autumn. This pattern is for a women's size large tee shirt with a scoop neck, short sleeves, and a waist tie detail that adds some style and shape to your top. You'll need about 1.25 yards of knit fabric and some basic sewing skills to make this easy and flattering tee. The pattern includes step-by-step instructions and photos to help you along the way. Download the free pattern and start sewing your own classic tee today!
5. Free Basic T-Shirt Sewing Pattern
Make your own raglan t-shirt with this free sewing pattern from Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom. This pattern is for kids sizes 2 to 14 and includes long sleeves, short sleeves, and 3/4 sleeve options. You'll also find a tutorial with photos and tips on how to sew a raglan shirt with knit fabric. This is a great beginner-friendly project that will help you create comfy and cute t-shirts for your kids. You can customize the shirt with different fabrics, colors, and prints to suit your child's style. Download the free raglan t-shirt pattern and start sewing today!
6. Sewing a T-shirt Using Jersey Fabric
Learn how to sew a t-shirt using jersey fabric, this tutorial from Hobbycraft is for you. Jersey fabric is soft, stretchy, and comfortable to wear, but it can be tricky to sew with. This tutorial will show you how to choose the right needle, thread, stitch, and machine foot for sewing jersey fabric. You'll also get tips on how to avoid stretching or puckering the fabric while sewing. Follow the step-by-step instructions and photos to make a simple t-shirt with jersey fabric. You'll love wearing your handmade t-shirt that fits well and feels great.
7. Custom T-shirt With an Overlocker
Create your own custom t-shirt with an overlocker with this tutorial from WeAllSew. You'll learn how to use the Knit Essentials pattern workbook to make a t-shirt that fits your measurements and style. Also, You'll get tips on how to use an overlocker to sew knit fabric with ease and speed. You'll be amazed at how professional your t-shirt will look with the overlocker's neat and stretchy seams. Whether you want a long sleeve, short sleeve, or 3/4 sleeve t-shirt, this tutorial will show you how to make it with an overlocker.
8. The Breezy Tee Sewing Pattern
Sew a breezy tee with a contrast pocket with this free sewing pattern from It's Always Autumn. This pattern is for a women's size large tee shirt with a scoop neck, short flutter sleeves, and a loose fit. You'll need about a yard of knit fabric and some basic sewing skills to make this easy and cute tee. The pattern includes step-by-step instructions and photos to help you sew the shirt, as well as how to add a contrast pocket for some extra fun. This is a perfect summer sewing project that will keep you cool and stylish.
9. Long Sleeve Shirt Sewing Pattern for Girls
Download this free t-shirt pattern for girls in sizes 3 to 10 from Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom. This pattern is for a basic t-shirt with a crew neck, short sleeves, and a relaxed fit. You'll need less than a yard of knit fabric and some basic sewing skills to make this easy and versatile t-shirt. The pattern includes step-by-step instructions and photos to help you sew the t-shirt, as well as tips and tricks for sewing with knits. You can customize the t-shirt with different fabrics, colors, and prints to suit your girl's style. This is a great staple for any girl's wardrobe.
10. Monique Simple Linen Tee Sewing Pattern
Make a simple linen tee with this free tutorial from Fabrics-store.com. This tutorial will show you how to use a free PDF pattern to make a white tee shirt with a crew neck, short sleeves, and a curved hem. You'll need about a yard of optic white linen fabric and some basic sewing skills to make this easy and classic tee. The tutorial includes step-by-step instructions and photos to help you sew the tee, as well as how to make your own bias binding tape for the neckline. This is a great project for beginners who want to try sewing with linen and create a wardrobe essential.
11. Cute Cotton T Shirt - Free PDF Pattern
Sew a classic t-shirt for boys and girls with this free sewing pattern from Gina Michele. This pattern is for a PDF t-shirt pattern that you can print at home and cut out. The pattern comes in three sizes: XS, S, and M. You'll need half a yard of cotton jersey fabric and some basic sewing skills to make this easy and versatile t-shirt. The t-shirt features a loose fit, short sleeves, and a scoop neckline. You'll also get tips on how to sew with cotton jersey fabric and how to finish the seams. This is a great beginner-friendly project that will help you create comfy and cute t-shirts for your kids.
12. How to Sew a T-Shirt With Elastic Thread
Learn how to sew a t-shirt with elastic thread with this tutorial from BERNINA Blog. Elastic thread is a special type of thread that stretches when you sew with it, creating a flexible and comfortable seam. You'll need a t-shirt pattern, some knit fabric, and some Mettler Seraflex elastic thread for this project. You'll also need a BERNINA sewing machine and a jersey machine needle. The tutorial will show you how to cut out the pattern pieces, how to sew the t-shirt with elastic thread, and how to finish the neckline and hems. This is a great way to sew a t-shirt that fits well and looks professional.
13. Men's T-shirt Pattern for Beginners
Make a men's t-shirt with this beginner-friendly tutorial from The Crafty Gentleman. You'll learn how to make your own t-shirt pattern from an existing t-shirt, how to cut and sew knit fabric, and how to add a neckband and hems. You'll also get tips on how to use a sewing machine and a jersey needle for sewing with stretchy fabric. This tutorial will help you create a custom t-shirt that fits well and looks great. You'll need some knit fabric, matching thread, scissors, pins, and a sewing machine for this project. Follow the step-by-step instructions and photos to make your own men's t-shirt.
14. Kids T-Shirt Cutting and Stitching Pattern
Sew a cute and comfy t-shirt for your kids with this free sewing pattern from Sew Crafty Me. This pattern is for a kid's t-shirt with a crew neck and short, 3/4, or long sleeves. You can also choose to add cuffs or not. The pattern comes in sizes 12 months to 5 years and includes printable templates and step-by-step instructions with photos. You'll need some knit fabric, rib knit, thread, and a ballpoint needle for this project. This is a great beginner-friendly project that will help you sew t-shirts for boys and girls in different prints and colors.
15. Men's Raglan T-shirt Sewing Pattern
Sew a men's raglan t-shirt with this free sewing pattern from Melly Sews. This pattern is for a men's size medium t-shirt with a crew neck and raglan sleeves. You can choose from long sleeves, short sleeves, or 3/4 sleeves options. You'll need some knit fabric, rib knit, thread, and a sewing machine for this project. The pattern includes printable templates and step-by-step instructions with photos. You'll learn how to sew a raglan shirt with knit fabric, how to add a neckband, and how to finish the hems. This easy sewing project will help you create a custom t-shirt for yourself or a loved one.
16. How to Make Boys T-shirts
Sew a boy's t-shirt with this free sewing pattern from Life Sew Savory. This pattern is for a boy's t-shirt with a crew neck and long or short sleeves. You can also choose to add cuffs or not. The pattern comes in sizes 2 to 14 and includes printable templates and step-by-step instructions with photos. You'll need some knit fabric, rib knit, thread, and a sewing machine for this project. This is a great beginner-friendly project that will help you sew t-shirts for boys in different prints and colors. This is a versatile and classic t-shirt pattern that your boy will love to wear.
17. Easy Fitted T-Shirt PatternTo Sew
Sew a fun summer tee with this tutorial from iCandy Handmade. This tutorial will guide you how to make a t-shirt with a dropped shoulder seam that creates a contrast between the front and back fabrics. You'll need a t-shirt pattern, some knit fabric, and some basic sewing skills for this project. The tutorial includes step-by-step instructions and photos to help you sew the t-shirt, as well as how to make your own bias tape for the neckline. This is a great way to use up some fabric scraps and create a unique and stylish t-shirt for yourself or a friend.
18. Raglan Tee Shirt Pattern for Women
Sew a women's raglan tee with this free sewing pattern from It's Always Autumn. This pattern is for a women's size large t-shirt with a scoop neck and raglan sleeves. You can choose from four sleeve lengths: short, elbow, 3/4, or long. You'll need about a yard and a half of knit fabric and some basic sewing skills for this project. The pattern includes printable templates and step-by-step instructions with photos. You'll learn how to sew a raglan shirt with knit fabric, how to add a neckband, and how to finish the hems. This is a fun and easy sewing project that will help you create a comfy and cute t-shirt for yourself. itsalwaysautumn
19. Cool Short Sleeve Shirt Pattern
Sew a short sleeve shirt with this tutorial from On The Cutting Floor. This tutorial will show you how to make a shirt with a v-neckline, a front cutout opening, and a 1/4 circle skirt. You'll need some woven fabric, interfacing, thread, and a sewing machine for this project. The tutorial includes printable templates and step-by-step instructions with photos. You'll learn how to sew a v-neckline with a facing, how to make a cutout opening, and how to attach a skirt to the bodice. This is a cute and easy t-shirt sewing pattern will help you create a fun and flirty shirt for yourself.
20. Free Printable Ladies T-shirt Pattern
Learn how to make a free ladies t-shirt pattern and tutorial with this easy and fun project from Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom. You'll need some knit fabric, a sewing machine, and a basic t-shirt to trace. Follow the step-by-step instructions and photos to create your own custom-fit t-shirt in any size and style. This free ladies t-shirt pattern is a great beginner sewing project that you can finish in an hour or less.
21. How to Sew a T-shirt Dress
If you love t-shirt dresses, you'll love this tutorial from Happiest Camper. You'll learn how to sew a t-shirt dress with a free sewing pattern that you can download and print. This dress is comfortable, flattering, and versatile. You can wear it with leggings, boots, sandals, or sneakers. You can also customize it with different fabrics, colors, and prints. This is a beginner-friendly sewing project that only requires a few basic skills and tools.
22. How to Sew a T-shirt - Step-by-Step Guide
Sewing a t-shirt is easier than you think with this guide from Sew Simple Home. You'll learn how to sew a t-shirt step by step, from cutting the fabric to finishing the seams. You'll also learn some tips and tricks to make your t-shirt look professional and neat. You can use any knit fabric you like, as long as it has some stretch. You can also adjust the pattern to fit your measurements and preferences. This is a great t-shirt pattern to make your own wardrobe staples or gifts for your loved ones.
23. How to Sew a Polo Shirt
Do you want to learn how to sew a polo shirt from scratch? In this full sewing class, you will see how to make your own polo shirt with a collar, a placket, and buttons. You will also learn how to draft a pattern based on your own measurements and how to adjust it for different sizes. This sewing class is suitable for intermediate sewers who have some experience with sewing knit fabrics and using a serger. You will need a sewing machine, a serger, some knit fabric, some interfacing, some buttons, and some basic sewing tools. Watch this video and discover how to sew a polo shirt that fits you perfectly!
24. How to Sew a Core T-Shirt
Get creative with your sewing skills by making a t-shirt using a free pattern from Closet Case Patterns! This easy-to-follow tutorial provides detailed instructions on how to create a comfy and stylish t-shirt in a shorter sleeve length, featuring a cute pocket detail. All you need are basic sewing supplies and some knit fabric, which is easy to find. Follow the step-by-step guide and use your Baby Lock Vibrant serger to finish the edges for a professional-looking finish.
25. Best Button-Up Shirt Design
Learn how to sew a simple button-up shirt with this step-by-step tutorial by Elmira. Using a pattern that can be found on Etsy, Elmira guides you through each stage of the process, from cutting the fabric to stitching the buttonholes. With clear instructions and helpful tips, Elmira shows you how to create a professional-looking shirt that can be worn for any occasion. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sewer, you'll find this tutorial easy to follow and full of useful information. Start sewing your own button-up shirt today!
Conclusion:
Sewing your own t-shirts is a fun and rewarding project that can save you money, customize your fit, and create something unique and original. You can find and use the 25 free t-shirt patterns above that suit your skill level, body type, and personal preference. You'll need some knit fabric, a sewing machine, and some basic sewing tools to sew your own t-shirts.
You will also need to follow some tips and tricks to sewing knit fabrics successfully, such as using a stretch stitch or a zigzag stitch, a ballpoint needle or a stretch needle, a rotary cutter and cutting mat, spray starch, and a twin needle. With these tips and tricks, you can sew your own t-shirts with free t shirt sewing patterns and enjoy wearing them for years to come.
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