If you've just started your dressmaking journey, or simply want a few easy makes for your summer wardrobe, we've got you covered! Here are 10 of our favourite sunshine makes, achievable no matter your skill level.
10 Easy Summer Dressmaking Projects for Beginners
Tilly and the Buttons Stevie Dress/Top
If you love throw-on dresses in hot weather, the Stevie is the perfect project! This simple shift dress is comfy and easy to wear, plus it comes with a pretty tie-back detail and also a top version too! It's a great first project for complete beginners and a satisfying sew for more experienced sewists too.
Simplicity 8134 Women's Easy-to-Sew Trousers and Shorts
Practical as well as easy! This versatile Simplicity pattern features a floaty pair of trousers which come together quickly, as well as shorts and even culottes with a cute tie-front detail. Great for all weathers during those summer months!
New Look 6378 Misses Easy Kimonos
You can't beat a good kimono for a quick sew and easy cover up! This pattern features a few different lengths so you can choose what suits you best. Kimono's are a classic first project for many sewists as they have very few pattern pieces and can be made from easy to sew materials like cotton.
New Look 6346 Misses Easy Skirts
When it's so hot that you can't bear trousers, it's great to have a few classic skirts to hand. We love the range of skirt styles included in this easy pattern from New Look, with a variety of lengths and a style that suits most - opt for no buttons to keep things simple if you're a complete beginner.
Tilly and the Buttons Bettine Dress
Bettine is a lovely project for newbies and is so comfy and easy to wear for all occasions. Make it with something like a cotton lawn or chambray if you're a complete beginner as you'll find it easier to work with than fabrics like viscose. Throw on in a fun print for daytime wear, or make in a more grown up fabric for a casual-chic evening outfit.
Simplicity 8601 Women's Pullover Top
If you want to work on your evening wear wardrobe, we love this simple but elegant pattern for tops by Simplicity. Choose from tie front version or leave as a front slit, plus straight, flutter or tied sleeve variations too.
New Look 6554 Women's Knit Jumpsuit and Dresses
If you love the wrap style dresses that are around in the shops at the moment, don't miss this gorgeous wrap dress pattern! With a maxi and a mini length dress, plus a wrap front jumpsuit, you're covered for all eventualities! This pattern is a great one for beginners who have tackled a couple of garments in woven fabrics and want to try their first knit (stretch) fabric project.
These tops are great for daytime wear whether you have to go to work, play, the beach or simply for hanging around in! We love the fun crossover back style which adds a bit of interest to a basic vest, while still being achievable for beginners.
New Look 6550 Women's Off Shoulder Dress
You can't beat a summer classic like an off-the-shoulder dress! They're great for easy daytime wear and look cute, plus they are so easy to stitch up. We love the ruffled sleeve details on this one!
Simplicity 1358 Women's Knit Dresses
And finally, if you want to delve into the world of knit fabrics with an easy make that's wearable for any summer event, this dress pattern is ideal. Make it long or short, with a high-low hem or front split, v-neck or scoop neck - there's something for everyone!
