As we continue to find ways to reduce our impact on the environment, the concept of zero waste has become increasingly popular. In the world of fashion and dressmaking, this has given rise to zero waste patterns. These patterns are designed in such a way that no fabric is wasted during the creation of a garment. They are not only eco-friendly but also a fun challenge for dressmakers looking to improve their skills. In this article, we will delve into the best zero waste patterns for beginner dressmakers.
What is a Zero Waste Pattern?
A zero-waste pattern is a type of dressmaking pattern that allows for the creation of a garment without any fabric waste. The pattern pieces are designed to fit together like a jigsaw puzzle, leaving no leftover fabric scraps. This method of dressmaking is not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective as it maximises the use of fabric which also means less fabric in our stash.
Top 10 Zero Waste Patterns for Beginners
1. The Zero Waste Apron: This is a simple and practical project for beginner dressmakers. The cross back apron pattern from Jane Gordon at Crafters & Makers is easy to follow, and the finished product is a functional apron with no fabric waste. Make it in one of our home furnishing chambray stripes in our apron fabric collection.
2. The Zero Waste Dress: The Birgitta Helmersson Zero Waste Gather Dress is a gorgeous pattern for a simple, loose-fitting dress that is perfect for confident beginners. This would look amazing in one of our linen blend fabrics such as our linen and cotton mix ginghams where the cotton content provides a bit more drape than 100% linen. And you may recognise it from the Sewing Bee as it was a favourite with Georgie.
3. The Zero Waste Kimono: This pattern from Elbe Textiles creates a stylish and comfortable kimono. It's a great beginner project as it involves simple straight-line sewing. You will need a fabric length 190cm x 140cm wide and any fabric with a bit of drape would work including a nice soft double gauze, a cotton lawn or even an old bedsheet for maximum zero waste points.
4. The Zero Waste Tote Bag: This is another simple project perfect for beginners. This Zero Waste tote bag pattern from Studiio 7t7 results in a versatile tote bag that's perfect for everyday use. Use one of our furnishing weight cottons such as our panama fabrics in a gorgeous bright colour.
5. The Zero Waste Shirt: This oversized cropped shirt pattern by Birgitta Helmersson has a dropped shoulder, a V neck and buttons at the front. As it uses a metre or less of fabric, it is a great pattern for using fabric remnants such as a woven linen or cotton.
6. The Zero Waste Skirt: This pattern for a zero waste wrap skirt by The Craft of Clothes allows for the creation of a simple, stylish skirt. It's a great way for beginners to practice their sewing skills while creating a wearable garment. Make it in any of our skirt fabrics such as a viscose or cotton sateen.
Zero Waste Wrap Skirt by the Craft of Clothes and blue linen & viscose tie dye
7. The Zero Waste Pouffe: This Zero Waste Pouffe pattern by The Modern Sewing Co creates a chic pouffe for your home while saving all your fabric scraps from going to landfill. By adding a zip you can top up the pouffe with scrap fabric over time as it will condense through use. It's a straightforward pattern that's perfect for beginners. Use a heavy furnishing weight fabric from our cushion fabric collection such as corduroy for good structure and choose a colour or print which works well with your home décor.
8. The Zero Waste Scarf: This pattern for an Infinity Scarf, Neck warmer and Headband by Jane Gordon is a simple and quick project using all the fabric from the full width that results in a stylish scarf as well as a neck warmer and headband. It's a great pattern for beginners looking to practice their sewing skills.
9. The Zero Waste Cardigan Headband: This pattern for a zero waste cocoon cardi and headband by Bernina is perfect for those looking to make something cosy and quick. The resulting headband is stylish and practical. You will need 1.5 m of a knit fabric such as our lovely cotton jersey fabrics.
10. The Zero Waste Throw Jacket: This throw jacket pattern by Cris Wood Sews is deceptively simple, but the resulting jacket is comfortable and stylish. Although not strictly zero waste, any leftover fabric will be rectangular so easy to use in another project. It's a great project for beginners looking to challenge themselves. Use a woven or stable knit fabric with a bit if structure such as a ponte fabric.
Throw Jacket Pattern by Cris Wood and Fabrics Galore Ponte Fabric
Which Zero Waste Pattern Will You Try?
In conclusion, zero waste patterns are an excellent way for beginner dressmakers to improve their skills while reducing waste. These patterns are not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective, making them a win-win for both the dressmaker and the environment. So why not give one of these patterns a try? You might just find that zero waste dressmaking is your new favourite hobby. And if you would like more information, read our blog on the zero waste movement and how to choose sustainable fabrics for your zero waste patterns.
