10 easy things to sew that you can make in a weekend

Have you always wanted to sew but are not sure where to start or what fabrics to use? We have selected ten of the best beginner sewing projects for you! They’re quick and easy things to sew and have the potential to give you the confidence to try more challenging projects.

The benefits of these easy things to sew – they’re fairly simple as they involve fewer steps and simpler techniques – are that they’re much quicker to finish, so you have your completed project a lot quicker! Which, in turn, makes them extremely satisfying for those who want to see results sooner!

Another added plus is you won’t need to spend a lot on fabrics for these projects – as they require less fabric – in some cases scraps – and fewer notions, making them a cost-effective way to practice sewing without breaking the bank.

These easy things to sew for beginner’s projects allow you to practice essential sewing skills such as cutting fabric, following pattern instructions and using different stitches. It also leaves room for creativity: you can experiment with fabric choices, embellishments, and modifications to make the project uniquely yours.

If you feel like you need some time to relax, then sewing can be a great way to relieve stress. Many people find sewing a meditative activity. Working on easy things to sew can be a great way to unwind and de-stress after a long day.

10 easy things to sew for beginners

1. Sew patchwork bird softies

Add a touch of patchwork brights to your home, with these dinky decorations by Helen Philipps. They’re a great way to use up your fabric stash. Find the cute pattern here.

2. Sew a scrunchie

Bring the ’90s back into your wardrobe by making your own scrunchie collection! Learn how to make a scrunchie with Jessica Entwistle’s step-by-step guide.

3. Sew an infinity scarf

The simple tube scarf is the perfect project if you’ve got some favourite prints to show off. It’s one of our favourite quick and easy sewing projects, using just six fat quarters of fabric.

4. Sew a pillowcase with a flap

Bring a fresh look into your bedroom by sewing your own unique pillowcases! Learn how to make a pillowcase step by step with Rebecca Reid.

5. Sew a pocket

If you’ve been inspired by The Great British Sewing Bee, then this is the upcycling tutorial for you. Learn how to add pockets to all your old, plain tees with our super simple tutorial. It’s easy to do and a great way to rejuvenate your wardrobe.

Sew savvy: 20 online sewing courses for 2025

Discover the joy of making your own clothes, give home-sewing a go or try a new technique to boost your skills with our round-up of the best places to learn to sew online. Take a look at our Sew Savvy: 20 online sewing courses for 2025.

6. Clutch bag sewing pattern

Take your evening outfits to the next level by stitching this stunning clutch pattern designed by Debbie Wainhouse. It’s the perfect accessory for any gathering, and it’s big enough to hold your makeup, phone or anything else you need to bring with you!

7. Free Pom pom slippers sewing pattern

These vibrant yellow dotted pom pom slippers are so comfy that you won’t want to take them off! They make fantastic gifts for friends and family – or you can make them for yourself as a little treat.

8. Llama apron sewing pattern

This cute llama apron pattern, created by Anna Alicia was first featured in Mollie Makes magazine. The playful print, pom pom trim and contemporary flashes of mint add modern retro vibes that make this easy-sew set fun to create.

9. Dog doorstop sewing pattern

Make a four-legged friend to guard your door in durable denim with Jennie Jones’ dog doorstop how-to.

10. Quick-sew headscarves

These quick-sew headscarves, designed by Jennie Jones, use just one or two fat quarters of fabric and are a great first sewing project if you’re new to making your own clothes and accessories. Sew that stash and pick a couple of your favourite prints to make these pretty and practical headscarves!

Easy things to sew for busy crafters

Sometimes starting a sewing project can be the hardest part – but once you set your mind to making something, you can break up the work into 15-minute or half an hour here and there. Soon you will discover that your 15 minutes extend and your project is finished before you know it – and probably took the same time as scrolling Instagram!

Get top sewing tips to go from beginner to pro

Check out our Top 10 sewing tips from Great British Sewing Bee Raph Dilan to transform your sewing.

Sarah Trevelyan

Sarah loves painting, designing, dressmaking and patchwork. A daily newspaper journalist for 20 years, Sarah took a break from journalism when her children were younger and founded a small business Sarah Loves To Sew – offering one-to-one sewing lessons, workshops and a monthly sewing subscription sewing box, alongside juggling a brief four-year acting career in film and TV. Returning to publishing Sarah joined Our Media as Production Editor on Simply Sewing for a year and is now Operations Editor for Love Patchwork & Quilting.

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