Etsy has been flooded with AI-generated slop patterns, and it’s become difficult to sort through the muck to find the gold. In an effort to promote real sewing patterns made by real designers, I have compiled a list of Etsy shops you can feel confident purchasing from.
If you are a pattern designer and want to be included in this list, please reach out and I would be happy to add you!
The below are affiliate links that may result in a small commission for me. Thank you for supporting my work in this way!
Sew Liberated: Casual, artsy styles, mostly for woven fabrics. I loved making the Estuary Skirt; it turned out super cute!
Ellie and Mac: My go-to for patterns for everyday clothing. Tons of styles for comfy knits, but also workwear and activewear. I always get an amazing fit on the first try with E&M patterns. They have kids patterns, too!
George and Ginger: Fun, trendy styles, mostly for knits. Another designer whose patterns just fit right for me every time. There are even more on their website, including $5 patterns and goth and grunge collections!
Socialite Patterns: Classy dresses and separates for special occasions, or just for fun. I made their gathered wrap dress, and it came out beautifully. They also have a huge line of patterns specifically for getting a perfect look for maternity photoshoots!
Rad Patterns: More patterns for casual knit clothes for all ages and genders!
Hey Jude Handmade: Patterns for many kinds of styles, for knits and wovens.
Stitch Upon a Time: A long time staple of indie pattern design, SUAT is known for their underwear patterns, but they have so much more!
Pattern Apothecary: A newer shop that has a sophisticated collection of dress and blouse patterns, mostly for woven fabrics.
Sew a Little Seam: Mostly but not exclusively kids’ patterns!
I know there are a ton more designers out there who have put their hearts and souls into designing patterns that enable sewists to make clothes that fit for themselves and their families. If you know of any who should be included here, comment here or email me and let me know! I’m also compiling shop lists for bag patterns, cosplay and costumes, and more. Let’s support actual human designers!