When I first started making bags, I only used free tutorials I found on Pinterest. Since then, I’ve accumulated dozens of purchased PDFs, but there are still some gems out there for free. The great thing about these free patterns, is it gives you a chance to test out a designer’s style of instruction before buying another one of their patterns. Here is a small round up of free patterns from some of my favourite designers; I’ve chosen a few that have a some different techniques to try out.

Don’t forget the discount at the bottom of this post! 

The Retreat bag features a long zipper, and uses wire frames to hold the bag open wide. You can also make use of the new metal zipper ends available on www.emmalinebags.com instead of fabric zipper ends if you prefer.

The Baker Street Bag, by Sara Lawson of Sew Sweetness is a free PDF with one pattern piece and full instructions. I think it would make a good first project for someone who is comfortable with sewing, but hasn’t made bags yet. The bag features a recessed zipper, but if that scares you, you can use a magnetic snap instead.

The Ramona Mini Hipster is Swoon’s latest free pattern, and it features some fun hardware and a zipper. I love the design feature on the front of the bag: so much freedom to make it unique. 

Anna of Noodlehead has many free tutorials and patterns listed on her site, here’s the Snappy Manicure Wallet I made with the pattern. It was a lot of fun to make because it uses an elastic pocket, a zipper, and snaps. I also think it’s a great pattern to use if you have several prints you’re wanting to showcase. It makes a great gift too!

This last pattern is a brand new freebie from Thread Riding Hood. I just love the unique area for a fussy cut featured on the front of the pouch. I can think of many precious scraps I’ve hung on to that will be perfect for this project. Take your zippered pouches to the next level!

Note: Please refer to original posts for the individual designers’ rules around selling bags made with these patterns. 

Celine over at Blue Calla Sewing Patterns has been busy creating even more patterns, and has generously offered a discount for my readers. Use code OKAPI10 at checkout to save 10% on any bag patterns in her Etsy Shop.