We created our skill levels according to the techniques required to sew each pattern, but our patterns will teach you everything so don't be afraid to sew above your skill level!
Beginner
Beginner sewing patterns teach the most foundational sewing techniques. These patterns focus on the basics like sewing and finishing straight and curved seams, hemming, and simple shaping methods such as darts and gathers. In addition, beginner patterns omit closures, making them perfect if you are new to sewing or are looking for a quick and easy make.
Advanced Beginner
Advanced Beginner sewing patterns expand on the skills learned at the beginner level, helping you to build confidence and range as a sewer. You'll find simple knitwear projects, bias tape finishing techniques, and begin to explore closures at this skill level.
Intermediate
Intermediate level sewing patterns focus on more precision sewing. In this skill level, you'll learn specialty closures. Intermediate patterns also introduce the skills needed for simple lingerie and athletic wear projects.
Advanced
Advanced sewing patterns require great precision and time investment. You'll find tailored pieces in this category with elevated details like bound buttonholes and welt pockets.
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If you want a dress with a fun, floaty silhouette, sew the Benning dress. This V-neck dress has a relaxed fit and a two-tiered skirt, perfect for playing with color-blocking, prints, and textured fabrics.
The waist seam hits about 2” above the waist, and two tiers are gathered below. Sew Benning in lightweight or medium-weight wovens, like chambray, linen, cotton lawn, batiste, shirting, double gauze, and rayon challis.
Cora is wearing a size 8 Benning dress with the dart lowered and 1" added to both skirt pieces. Her measurements are 37", 31 1/2", 42 3/4", and she is 5'9".
Our Misses patterns are drafted for a C cup and our Curvy patterns are drafted for DD. Both are drafted for a height of 5'8" (172 cm).
We want to help you achieve the best fit possible so you can sew garments you truly love. Our fit guides are designed to help you better understand the fit and details of each pattern. Use fit guides in conjunction with the finished measurement chart to better understand the ease and intended fit of each pattern.
This pattern is a digital download. When you purchase a PDF pattern from Seamwork, your new pattern will be stored in your download library, where you can download it as many times as you like.
Our pattern PDFs are layered for easier printing.
Print-at-home files, copy shop files, projector files, and instructions. See contents file in download for detailed descriptions.
We love seeing Seamwork patterns in the classroom! Our bulk licensing allows you to purchase and print as many copies of your pattern as you need for your students.
Create a breezy, romantic dress in this engaging online sewing class. Using the Benning pattern, you'll craft a flattering V-neck dress with perfectly gathered tiers. Learn techniques for working with lightweight fabrics, creating even gathers, and achieving a professional finish on flowing layers. This class guides you through fabric selection and teaches you how to create beautiful drape and movement. Perfect for sewists ready to master gathering techniques while creating a versatile, seasonal dress.
Bertie is a sweet shirtdress full of special details, like a V-neckline, center front button placket, elasticized waist, and full-length sleeves gathered into tied cuffs.