Since my last free pattern roundup, I’ve come across many more excellent ones, so I decided it was time for another roundup! Here is an assortment of free patterns I’ve found. I haven’t made all of them, but many of the designers featured here are my favourites. Free patterns are a great way to try out a designer before you purchase one of their patterns. Many designers have their own style of instructions, pattern layout and techniques, so try some out and see what your preferences are. Free patterns are also great for when you’re starting out; they give you a chance to get your feet wet before you invest a lot in the PDF world. Also, if you haven’t already, make sure to go grab a copy of Blue Calla’s free Gerbera Wristlet PDF pattern, right  here on Happy Okapi!

It’s no secret I’m a huge fan of Swoon Sewing Patterns. Whether you’re new to making bags, or you’re experienced, this pattern will delight you! It’s a great way to try out different interfacing, and if  hardware intimidates you, then you can skip the magnetic snap. You’re even welcome to sell bags made with this pattern!

I love that this pattern gives you so many options! You can make it very beginner friendly, by omitting the piping, and using cottons and a magnetic snap, or you can challenge yourself by using vinyl, adding piping and using a turn lock. How about a quilted flap to mix things up? I think this would be a great quick gift to make for a friend’s birthday, or just as a pick-me-up when you’re looking for something fun to sew.

Anna at Noodlehead always has such elegant, designs, and this Trail Tote is no exception. It comes in 2 different sizes and has an adjustable strap and exterior zippered pocket. You can whip one of these up on a whim! Make your own piping for an extra special touch.

Thread Riding Hood is a Canadian blogger with lots of great patterns and tutorials. The Time Warp Tote is a pattern she worked on for Cloud 9 Fabrics, and really looks like a fun sew. The pattern format is not her typical style, and actually doesn’t include any pattern pieces to print out, so if you’re out of ink, but desperate to sew up a bag (don’t tell me you’ve never been there, lol!) this project can still work for you. I also like that it uses a different weight of fabric than quilting cotton, so we can try out some other fabrics in our stash that have been feeling neglected.

What cute little bag! It’s packed with features too! You get to try out  installing a turn lock, adding piping to a bag, elastic pockets, overlays, and darts. I like the idea of pairing the main print with a solid like Sara did with her sample bag. I bet it would look great with Essex Linen and a fun floral.

This is a simple versatile pattern that can be made exactly as described in the pattern, or easily changed to suit your style or needs. I personally love large casual bags like this, especially with tons of pockets inside so I have some semblance of organization inside the bag. Check out the tester photos for some ideas on how you can customize your own. This would also make a great bag for a print you just can’t get enough of and are looking for a project to show it off.

Do you have some bamboo handles you’ve been itching to put to use? Here is a super quick and easy tutorial from Janelle at Emmaline for just that! I really love the simple construction method in the tutorial. My thrift store has a craft section and I always see handles like this there. You can really change the look of this bag depending on the fabric you use – dress it up or down. I think it would make an adorable bag for a girls’ night out!

Now the only question is: which one to make first? I hope you’ve enjoyed this roundup. Follow me on Pinterest, for more tutorials, patterns and techniques.