A sweatshirt is one of the most versatile garments you can sew. Comfortable, practical, and easy to wear, sweatshirts are perfect for layering during cooler months while offering a relaxed style that works for everyday outfits. They are also beginner-friendly projects that help sewists build confidence when working with knit fabrics.
The Selena Sweatshirt Sewing Pattern from Winslet's is a great introduction to sewing comfortable knitwear. Featuring a classic round neckline, long sleeves, and drop shoulders, this pattern creates a relaxed sweatshirt that is easy to sew and comfortable to wear.
Why Sew a Sweatshirt?
-
Create a comfortable everyday wardrobe essential.
-
Enjoy a relaxed fit with long sleeves and drop shoulders.
-
Learn useful knit garment construction techniques.
-
Sew a practical layering piece for cooler weather.
-
Customize your sweatshirt using different knit fabrics and prints.
-
Create a versatile garment suitable for casual wear, lounging, and everyday outings.
Why Choose the Winslet's Selena Sweatshirt Sewing Pattern?
-
Skill Level: Very Easy
-
Classic round neckline
-
Long sleeves
-
Drop shoulder design
-
Comfortable relaxed fit
-
Beginner-friendly construction
-
Available Sizes: US 02 - US 32 | UK 06 - UK 36 | EU 36 - EU 64
Supplies & Notions
-
Sewing machine
-
Sewing needles
-
3-ply polyester thread
-
Tape measure
-
Chalk
-
Shears
-
Thread cutter
-
Pins
-
Iron
Fabric Recommendations
Recommended fabrics:
-
Medium-weight jersey
-
Rib fabric
-
Terry fabric
Sample fabric used:
-
Terry fabric
Size Charts
Check the size charts and measure yourself to select the correct size, using the garment and body measurement tables in the guide.
Verify how much fabric you need by referencing the fabric yield table in the guide.
Pattern Inventory: What Pieces to Prepare
-
Front Bodice — Cut x1 Fabric
-
Back Bodice — Cut x1 Fabric
-
Sleeve — Cut x2 Fabric
-
Neck Trim — Cut x1 Fabric
Pattern Marking
The pattern includes the following markings:
-
Grainline
-
Front armhole
-
Back armhole
-
Front armhole notch
-
Back armhole notch
-
Neckline
-
Side seam
-
Hemline
-
Hem
-
Seam allowance
These markings help align the bodice, sleeves, and neckline accurately during construction.
Cutting Layout
The cutting layouts are provided for both 45-inch and 60-inch fabric widths.
-
Ensure the grainline arrows run parallel to the fabric selvage.
-
Pin pattern pieces carefully to maintain accuracy while cutting.
-
The layouts are designed for non-directional fabrics.
-
Purchase extra fabric when using fabrics with nap or directional prints.
-
The illustrated layouts use a medium size for reference.
Fabric Cutting and Preparation
Arrange the pattern pieces according to the cutting layout diagrams. Begin by positioning the pieces on the fabric, ensuring that the grainline arrow runs parallel to the selvage.
If you are using fabric shears, trace the pattern pieces and then cut them out, cutting away any pen, pencil, or chalk lines. Remember to cut out any notches that appear on the edges. These markings help line up the pieces when you assemble the garment.
Use your marking pen, pencil, or chalk to transfer the markings (such as circles, buttonholes, and fold lines) to the wrong side of the fabric. Mark the center front of pieces cut on the fold, as this will help you to align pieces accurately.
Seam Allowance
Please follow the seam allowances as indicated on the pattern file layers. These are provided specifically for each piece to ensure accurate construction.
This pattern uses a 0.9 cm (or 0.38 inch) seam allowance all around and 2.5 cm (or 1 inch) at the hem.
Step-by-Step Sewing Instructions
Before you begin, note that an overlock stitch is preferred for sewing, although a zigzag stitch can also be used. A flatlock stitch is recommended for finishing hems. If your machine allows, reduce the presser foot pressure when sewing stretchy fabrics and test your stitching on scrap fabric before sewing the garment.
1. Attach One Shoulder Seam
Place the front bodice and back bodice with right sides facing each other.
Overlock along one shoulder seamline.
2. Prepare the Neck Trim
Fold the neck trim in half with the wrong sides facing together.
Overlock the raw edges together.
2a. Attach the Neck Trim
Position and align the neck trim along the bodice neckline seam.
Attach the neck trim using an overlock stitch.
3. Sew the Remaining Shoulder Seam
Place the front and back bodice with right sides facing each other.
Overlock along the remaining shoulder seamline.
4. Attach the Sleeves
Place each sleeve onto the bodice with right sides facing each other.
Match the sleeve armhole notches with the corresponding bodice armhole notches and align the shoulder notch.
Attach the sleeves using an overlock stitch.
5. Sew the Side and Sleeve Seams
Place the garment with right sides facing each other.
Overlock the side seam, beginning at the sleeve hem and continuing down to the bodice hem.
Repeat for the opposite side.
6. Finish the Hems
Fold the bodice hem and sleeve hems toward the wrong side of the fabric along the hemline.
Secure the folded edges using a flatlock stitch.
Begin stitching from one of the side seams to achieve a clean, professional finish.
Ready to Sew Your Own Sweatshirt?
The Selena Sweatshirt is a simple and rewarding project that creates a comfortable everyday essential. With its classic round neckline, relaxed drop shoulders, and easy construction, it is an excellent pattern for beginners and experienced sewists alike.
Choose your favorite knit fabric, follow the step-by-step instructions, and enjoy creating a versatile handmade sweatshirt you'll reach for again and again. Download the pattern today and start sewing your own Selena Sweatshirt Sewing Pattern.
Explore More Sewing Patterns
Browse our Sweatshirt Sewing Pattern Collection for more comfortable handmade sweatshirts, pullovers, and casual wardrobe essentials perfect for everyday wear.
Join the Community & Get Support
Share your finished Selena Sweatshirt on social media with #MadeWithWinslets. If you have questions, feedback, or customization requests, contact the Winslet's team at support@winslets.com.
