Hone your sewing skills with these 20+ easy and free sewing projects for beginners. From coasters to tote bags, this list has it all!
So you’re ready to move past the no-sew and hand sewn projects and dive into beginner sewing machine projects. You are in the right place! I’ve compiled a list of over 20 projects that can be completed by a beginner sewer.
How to Start Sewing
Before we get to that, let’s make sure you’re ready to start. Go through this list of things you should know, have, and do before beginning your first project:
Get your supplies.
Here are the only 6 tools you need to start sewing.
If you haven’t already, you need to get a sewing machine.
I like this sewing machine post because she goes through options other than buying a brand new machine.
Make sure you know how to use your machine.
There are some great videos here that will help you learn the parts of your machine and how to thread it.
Practice using your machine.
Here are some free printable sewing practice sheets.
Okay—now you are ready to get sewing! Just scroll down to see my list of easy and free sewing projects for beginners and pick one to start.
1
Tea Towel Tote Bag
Learn how to make a DIY grocery tote using a tea towel! This is a perfect project for a beginning sewist.
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2
lifesewsavory.com
Mug Cozy Sewing Tutorial
Sew up an easy fall mug cozy for a cute and useful (and simple!) sewing project. This is an easy craft and a perfect beginner tutorial as well.
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3
happiestcamper.com
Rolled Hem Napkins
Forget paper napkins! It is easy to sew your own reusable cloth napkins. This easy to follow tutorial also teaches you how to sew a rolled hem.
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4
Stephanie Woodson
Flannel Infinity Scarf
This tutorial is super easy to follow and was written specifically for beginners. She shows you two ways to make it: flannel fabric (as shown) or using multiple flannel shirts.
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5
mellysews.com
Envelope Pillow Cover
Envelope pillow covers are a great beginner project because there is no zipper closure, and no need to hand sew the pillow closed! You can also make them in any size.
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6
Pot Holder
Learn how to make a pot holder, and quilt it, using your fave fabric and this easy tutorial! You don’t even need a pattern; you can use an existing pot holder.
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7
dollarcrafter.com
Dryer Sheets
I like this project for beginning sewers because it doesn't have to look perfect to use in your laundry! If you're just starting your sewing journey, this is a good one to practice straight lines.
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8
DIY Hot and Cold Packs
My favorite way to help with boo boos are these heart DIY hot and cold packs. Made from upcycled shirts and rice, they’re an easy way to soothe kids.
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9
hearthandvine.com
Bowl Covers
Ditch the foil and plastic wrap and make these reusable fabric bowl covers instead. This is a really quick project that saves you money, plus you'll get to try sewing with elastic.
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10
www.momsandcrafters.com
Fabric Bows
Use these fabric bows for headbands, barrettes, or to embellish any outfit! Only a few lines of sewing are needed, so this is a great starter project.
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11
Chair Cushions
Learn how to make chair cushions with this easy tutorial! You'll need basic sewing machine skills to ensure success.
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12
mellysews.com
Drawstring Bag
Follow along with the video tutorial in this post. You can use drawstring bags as gift bags, for packing, and so much more.
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13
Bandana Skirt
Learn how to make a bandana skirt in a few simple steps! This cute sewing project is easier than you think.
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14
Applique Tote
Are you all about the hustle? Show everyone that you are giving it your best with this unique DIY applique tote. The applique is easier than you think!
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15
Zipper Pouch
Learn how to sew the cutest zipper pouch with this simple tutorial! It looks like notebook paper – and you can embroider a name in it too.
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16
Stephanie Woodson
Fabric Catchall Tray
Catchall trays are great for holding jewelry or by the front door for your keys and spare change. This beginner sewing tutorial is really easy to follow and can even get kids involved if you like!
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17
Amanda Formaro
Heart Garland
This beginner sewing project is a great way to practice sewing around curves. Since you are making a garland, you will need to make a bunch of heart shapes. It's also perfect for fabric scraps.
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18
hearthandvine.com
Fabric Card Holders
These super simple card holders can be used to hold business cards or as gift card holders for presents. Choose your fabric depending on the occasion or holiday.
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19
dollarcrafter.com
Reusable Sponges
Make yourself some reusable sponges. When they get dirty just throw them in the washer. No more waste and perfect for housewarming gifts.
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20
www.downredbuddrive.com
Curtain Panels
This curtain tutorial is written specifically for beginning sewers. If you can sew a straight line, you can make yourself some curtains!
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21
Baby Burp Cloths
Learn how to make burp cloths using cloth diapers and ribbons! This is a very easy sewing project and is great for gifting.
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22
Amanda Formaro
Hair Scrunchies
No tangling and better assortment of colors are just a couple reasons why you may want to make scrunchies. This tutorial has step by step directions with photos – very beginner friendly.
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23
sewcanshe.com
How to Sew Easy Baskets
I love sewing projects that use pre-cut fabrics but I often have a handful of leftovers pieces that I’m not sure what to do with. This is a fast and easy to sew fabric basket that’s reversible too.
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24
www.thecraftpatchblog.com
Easy Sew Fabric Grocery Sack Holder
This DIY grocery sack holder is a perfect sewing project for beginners. It’s mostly straight lines, but it has a few common sewing techniques that are good to practice. It only takes a few materials and can be customized with fabric choice and trim details to fit any style.
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25
www.jugglingactmama.com
Flannel Coasters
Flannel just screams winter, doesn't it? Use an old flannel shirt or scrap fabric to make these easy coasters that can be washed when they get stained!
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26
Denim Bunting Made from Old Jean Scraps
If you have denim scraps left over, it's easy to turn them into a DIY bunting! Perfect for a party or for little girls' room decor.
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Did you like this list of sewing projects for beginners? I’d love if you would share it by using the buttons below and then make sure to check out these other great sewing posts: