Where to Find Sewing Patterns, now that Joann’s is closing?

Keep reading this Post to Learn:

• The best places to find sewing patterns

• How to identify high-quality patterns and what to look for

• Our #1 favorite resource for finding amazing patterns

The cat’s out of the Bag! Joann is closing in the next few months. And if you are freaking out, wondering where you are going to find sewing patterns - I’m here to tell you to hold your horses - everything is going to be ok. The world of indie sewing patterns has been WAITING for you. There are amazing sewing patterns out there, and dare I say many even better than what you can find at a Joann.

Before we jump into talking about where to find sewing patterns, lets talk a little about what makes a good sewing pattern.

Accurate Pattern Drafting and Grading:

A sewing pattern is only useful if it is drafted accurately to begin. It is normal for fit issues to arise, and need to be addressed when sewing a pattern, but glaring issues, like seams not matching in length, facings that are too small to fit into their respective portions, or poor grading (gaping necklines, and giant wrists) are all pattern errors that should have been worked out during the testing period.

Tip #1: Read the Reviews: It can be hard to know if you can trust a pattern company, if it is new to you, so reading reviews is my number one tip.

If you search for patterns on Etsy, look through the reviews to see what people say about the pattern drafting. Are there recurring fit issues that go unaddressed by the creator?

Another option is to search the pattern by its hashtag on Instagram. Many sewists will tag their creations, and this is a great way to see if the pattern has been made by someone in your size. This can help provide clarity about the pattern drafting and grading.

High Quality Instructions:

Good, clear instructions are key! Look for patterns that note they come with detailed illustrated or photo instructions. Some patternmakers will include video-tutorials as well, which can help make the sewing process easier.

Tip #2: Read the description: Does this pattern include a video tutorial, illustrated or photo instructions? Be sure to know what type of instructions you prefer and look for that type in the description. If you are not sure if the pattern includes what you are looking for - reach out to the designer and ask.

So now we know what to look for, the question remains, WHERE do we look?

Let’s talk about three of my favorite sewing pattern platforms…

Thread Loop

Thread Loop is a newer web app that is designed by online sewing community member - Guro Flaten. Thread Loop is a place to “plan your projects, organize your fabric stash, and discover inspiring patterns while connecting with a community of sewists.”

Thread Loop is a web-based app. Which means in order to use the platform you must create a log-in.

After you have created a log-in you are able to browse over 41,000 sewing patterns, “stashed” by other users, with more being added every day. You can search patterns by using the filter function to search by different categories such as sewing level, size, fabric type, etc.

You can also see if other users have used that pattern and what they thought of it.

Thread loop also allows you to digitally organize your patterns, and fabric stash. It has so many amazing features and is just a no-brainer for me. I 100% recommend starting your pattern search here!

The Fold Line

This platform was founded in the UK in 2015. It is an online pattern shop that exclusively sells indie sewing patterns. They vet each sewing pattern company they bring into their shop, and only sell patterns that are known for great pattern drafting and instructions.

The Fold Line is unique in that they sell sewing patterns - so you can purchase the pattern directly through their website. They also offer A0 printing and ship internationally. So if you want an all-in-one platform this is a good option for you!

Similar to Thread-Loop you can filter by category, and search by new releases as well.

CPMG Graduate Database

Finally, the CPMG Graduate Database is a great place to find high-quality sewing patterns.

Graduates of our course are creating size-inclusive sewing patterns of the highest caliber. Many include video tutorial, and illustrated step-by-step instruction booklets. If you are looking for unique size-inclusive sewing patterns - this is the place to go.

Final Takeaways

There are so many amazing places online to find high-quality sewing patterns—whether you’re browsing through Thread Loop, shopping directly from The Fold Line, or supporting talented designers from the CPMG Graduate Database. The key to finding a great pattern is knowing what to look for: well-drafted designs, clear instructions, and reviews from other sewists.

Ultimately, the best pattern is the one that fits your needs—whether that means a beginner-friendly project with video tutorials or a complex design with detailed illustrations. Don't be afraid to experiment, try new designers, and embrace the world of indie sewing patterns. Who knows? You might just find a new favorite!

Happy sewing!