When I first started making bags, I only used free tutorials I found on Pinterest. Since then, I’ve accumulated dozens of purchased PDFs, but there are still some gems out there for free. The great thing about these free patterns, is it gives you a chance to test out a designer’s style of instruction before buying another one of their patterns. Here is a small round up of free patterns from some of my favourite designers; I’ve chosen a few that have a some different techniques to try out.
Don’t forget the discount at the bottom of this post!
Emmaline Bags – Retreat Bag
The Retreat Bag, Janelle Mackay of Emmaline Bags
The Retreat bag features a long zipper, and uses wire frames to hold the bag open wide. You can also make use of the new metal zipper ends available on www.emmalinebags.com instead of fabric zipper ends if you prefer.
Sew Sweetness – Baker Street Bag
Baker Street Bag, Sara Lawson of Sew Sweetness
The Baker Street Bag, by Sara Lawson of Sew Sweetness is a free PDF with one pattern piece and full instructions. I think it would make a good first project for someone who is comfortable with sewing, but hasn’t made bags yet. The bag features a recessed zipper, but if that scares you, you can use a magnetic snap instead.
Swoon Sewing Patterns – Ramona Mini Hipster
Ramona Mini Hipster, made by Barabooboo Designs, pattern by Swoon
Ramona Mini Hipster, made by Cloth Albatross, pattern by Swoon
The Ramona Mini Hipster is Swoon’s latest free pattern, and it features some fun hardware and a zipper. I love the design feature on the front of the bag: so much freedom to make it unique.
Noodlehead – Snappy Manicure Wallet
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Anna of Noodlehead has many free tutorials and patterns listed on her site, here’s the Snappy Manicure Wallet I made with the pattern. It was a lot of fun to make because it uses an elastic pocket, a zipper, and snaps. I also think it’s a great pattern to use if you have several prints you’re wanting to showcase. It makes a great gift too!
Thread Riding Hood – Cat-Eye Zipper Pouch
Cat-Eye Zipper Pouch, by Sherri of Thread Riding Hood
This last pattern is a brand new freebie from Thread Riding Hood. I just love the unique area for a fussy cut featured on the front of the pouch. I can think of many precious scraps I’ve hung on to that will be perfect for this project. Take your zippered pouches to the next level!
Note: Please refer to original posts for the individual designers’ rules around selling bags made with these patterns.
Blue Calla Sewing Patterns Discount
Celine over at Blue Calla Sewing Patterns has been busy creating even more patterns, and has generously offered a discount for my readers. Use code OKAPI10 at checkout to save 10% on any bag patterns in her Etsy Shop.
Thanks so much for including the Cat-Eye pouch in type list Reece! There are some great free options or there!
these bags look adorable. I really wish I could sew. Maybe I will one day! Thanks so much for sharing.
It’s never too late to start Cat!
These are all beautiful!! Ah, to have all the money in the world to buy both bags and fabric.
Have you heard of The Little Bird Designs? I relish a lot of the bags and patterns that come out from there as well.
So much I want to do, and so little time… and funds. Lol.
Thanks for sharing all these amazing patterns!
Thanks Hannah! I hadn’t heard of The Little Bird Designs, but now I’ve checked them out, thanks!