learn how to sew: Our Favorite Online sewing courses
Want to learn to sew?
At CPMG, we teach you how to draft and grade sewing patterns for a size-inclusive range. But we often hear this question:
“Can beginner sewists take CPMG?”
The answer? It depends!
We’ve had many beginners take the course and go on to successfully launch their own sewing patterns. But the term beginner can be a little subjective. Here’s what we mean when we say someone is ready for CPMG:
You’ve sewn from a pattern before
You’ve completed a few garment projects
You understand the basic anatomy of clothes
You feel confident using your sewing machine
If that sounds like you—great! You’re probably ready to dive in.
But maybe you’re just starting your sewing journey. If you haven’t quite figured out how to thread your machine or you’re not sure how to choose the right fabric for a project, don’t worry—you’re in the right place, too.
Today, we’re highlighting some of our favorite beginner-friendly sewing courses available online—both free and paid.
And the best part? They’re all created by amazing alumni of the Confident Patternmaking and Grading course.
Learn to Sew Series with Sydney Graham
Cost: FREE
In this five-part YouTube video series Sydney Graham walks you through the essentials of getting started sewing. This is a great series to watch to build up your sewing knowledge.
1. Sewing tools
2. Choosing the right fabric
3. Sewing machine basics
4. How to use sewing patterns
5. Beginner-friendly tote bag pattern.
Learn How to Sew: Happily Dressed
Cost: $35 USD
In his class, Brandon teaches you how to get started sewing without any previous experience. As an added bonus, the final project he walks you through how to sew the Nino Open Jacket, a free PDF pattern. This is a great class for you if you have wanted to use PDF patterns, but aren’t sure where to begin. Brandon also has a YouTube channel so you can check out his other videos there.
Lessons include:
1. Key Functions of the Sewing Machine!
2. How to Wind a Bobbin/Thread Your Needle!
3. Proper Techniques on How to Sew Straight & Confidently!
4. How to Put Together a PDF Sewing Pattern!
5. How to Sew the Nino Open Jacket!
+ helpful resources for continued education!
Learn to Sew for Complete Beginners: Emily Lightly
Cost: $49 CAD
In her course, Emily walks you through all the basics on how to get started sewing. Emily also has a YouTube channel so you can check out her other videos there.
Lessons Include:
1. Getting Started: Sewing Machine & Supplies
2. How to Use a Sewing Machine
3. All About Fabric
4. All About Patterns
5. Finding Your Size
Creative sewing for beginners: Geri Berman
Cost: $49 USD
In Geri’s class, she focuses on sewing basics, while also teaching simple pattern drafting and focuses on developing creativity into her class. She does this by showing how to create a basic t-shirt block and then displaying the many different variations that can be made with just that one block.
Her class is great for you if you have an interest in pattern drafting or want to be able to combine your interest in sewing and patternmaking from the beginning!
Lessons Include:
1. T-shirt Bodice Block
2. Mock-up & Fitting Adjustments
3. Drafting & Sewing a Tank Variation
4. Making the Tank Into a Vest
Mother Sews Best:
Learn How to Sew Clothes in A Matter of Weeks
Cost: $397 USD
This course is broken down into 7 smartly named modules. It is designed to be taken one module per week, with each module focusing on a new sewing skill. Through a combination of videos and project-based learning, you will acquire a strong basic background in sewing by taking this course.
Lessons Include:
1. “Pins & Needles” - What you’ll sew: A scrunchie
2. “A Fabricated Story” - What you’ll sew: A pillow case
3. “Starting to See a Pattern” - What you’ll sew: A wristlet purse
4. “Spooling Around” - What you’ll sew: PJ Shorts (Adult & Child)
5. “Feels Like a Stretch” - What you’ll sew: T-shirt (Adult & Child)
6. “All Buttoned Up” - What you’ll sew: Romper (Child) or Boxy Top (Adult)
7. “Zipping Through it” - What you’ll sew: Evangaline Dress (adult & girl's option)
Nat Della Selva
