Do you love to sew, are you creative, and do you enjoy bringing your own ideas and fabric projects to life? Then you need a pattern-making program! In this article, we want to help you find a pattern-making program that suits you.
To give you a helping hand in your search for the right pattern-making program, this article provides an overview of some of the most popular ones. Speaking of patterns: be sure to take a look at our pattern collection :)
And to help you get a better idea of the design and functionality of each program, we have also included videos for the respective programs.
We have made sure that the programs—with the exception of Lekala—are free of charge or, in the case of paid programs, offer a trial version.
And how can you store patterns cleverly?
Pattern-making software and programs: The Top 6
Do you not only want to sew your own clothes, but also design the patterns yourself? The best way to do this is with a pattern-making program. Here are my recommendations for pattern-making software.
PatternmakerPro
With this free program, PatternMakerPRO, you can design patterns from scratch yourself. Or you can use one of the many patterns provided by the program and adjust them to your measurements.
Note: Unfortunately, the program was discontinued at the end of 2024.
Actually for furniture: Google Sketchup
As you will see in the video, Google Sketchup was actually developed for the construction of 3D objects.
However, you can also use it to design things like bags and pouches.
Vector: Inkscape
Inkscape is one of those programs that might be a bit intimidating at first. It is suitable for illustrations and web design, but also for the vector graphics needed to create patterns.
I have selected the first part of a four-part introductory lecture on the program for you, so that you can get an insight into how it works.
With a little practice, it is a great program that offers an incredible number of possibilities.
My number 1 for EVERYTHING: GRAFIS
GRAFIS is a paid program for creating clothing patterns—but also for bags, inflatable boats, shoes, basically everything. There are also great training opportunities where you can have the functionality of the program explained to you. We at SewSimple have been working with GRAFIS for years—it is perfect for professional patterns at the highest level.
GRAFIS is a CAD pattern system developed specifically for garment development. Anyone who spends some time with it will quickly realize how well-thought-out and flexible it is. It combines classic pattern drafting with modern, parametric functions, making it perfect for anyone who wants to create precise patterns while working creatively.
A major advantage of GRAFIS is its parametric approach: changes to measurements or basic constructions directly affect the entire pattern. This saves time and ensures consistent results—from design to production readiness.
A great tool that, with a bit of familiarization, is really fun to use—and makes the next step in digital pattern development possible.
There is a trial version that you can download for free.
Also as an Online Designer: Lekala (paid)
Lekala is also a program for creating clothing patterns.
It is a paid program, but I would like to introduce it to you here because I think the Online Designer is so great.
Here you can create your very own style from various garments. You can check out the Online Designer here.
Vector again: Valentina
Valentina is also a downloadable vector program. In terms of design, it is similar to Inkscape, but in my estimation, it is more suitable for beginners.
Have you found a suitable pattern-making program or do you have any questions? Then write me a comment! Would you rather buy your patterns? Then you can find hundreds of great patterns in our shop!
Happy simple sewing,
your Sabine
Comments
Comments are loading …