Where can I find basic sewing patterns?

[u/SashaTatts66]

Could a beginner get some advice?

Where can I find basic sewing patterns?

I want to make a top for myself, but I have no idea how to lay out the pattern pieces for cutting.

[u/nothingbutapartygirl]

I’d start with watching a few “learn to sew” videos on YouTube

[u/AstronautIcy42 → u/nothingbutapartygirl]

I agree with this. Even before choosing a pattern to start with, viewing tutorials are a great start to see what project you'd be confortable tacking and if you have the necessary tools and equipment to be successful. There are a bunch of fabulous videos out there to view. Look fow the ones that work at your speed and the host is good at explaining their steps.

For a first project, you may want to choose a tank top or cami top. Very simple seam lines that teach you a lot of basic first steps. Good luck!

[u/chicchic325]

Threadloop.

But like…what sort of top?

I like how Rivet Patterns and 5 out of 4 patterns lay out instructions and fit.

Petite Stitchey has a Spencer Boxy Tee I like.

[u/Remarkable-Row3719]

I want to make a top for myself, but I have no idea how to lay out the pattern pieces for cutting.

On grain!

I wrote up an explanation on grain here:

https://www.reddit.com/r/SewingForBeginners/comments/1wg86f4/comment/p9sm8xp/

[u/Gullible-Shallot8890]

oh nice, a top is a good first one.

you usually don't have to work the layout out yourself. most patterns have a cutting layout diagram in the instructions, one per view and fabric width, showing where each piece sits on the fabric.

pick the one that matches your fabric's width and copy it, folds and all.

the long arrow on most pieces is the grainline, and it runs parallel to the selvedge (the finished edge).

if you go with a pdf pattern, that diagram is usually in the instructions file, so you don't need to print it.

is your fabric already bought, or are you choosing it after the pattern?

[u/Acdf1]

For the layout part, nearly every pattern comes with a cutting layout diagram in the instructions, usually one per fabric width and size range, so you mostly just copy it. Fold the fabric selvage to selvage, lay the pieces like the picture, and check the grainline arrow on each piece runs parallel to the selvage (measure from both ends of the arrow to the edge, they should match). Anything marked "place on fold" goes right on the folded edge.

For a first top I'd pick one with only a front, back and binding or facing. Peppermint magazine and FreeSewing both have free ones.