21 Free Fabric Belt Patterns
Learn how to make a fabric belt for a dress, tunic, or just a pop of color or pattern on a plain outfit!
Belts: not just for holding up pants anymore! There are a wide range of uses for fabric belt patterns, from adding some shape to a shift or flowy dress, to creating some intrigue on an otherwise simple 'fit. While your standard leather fare may work just fine for some of these purposes, you'll often find that fabric belts are more comfortable, versatile, and honestly, much more cute. The best part is that these belts are a simple shape with minimal features, meaning most of them are very beginner-friendly.
Before learning how to make a belt with fabric, you first need to identify the purpose of the belt. Will you need a tougher fabric to hold up against a lot of moving around, or is your belt more of a decorative piece? It's also worth bearing in mind your current scrap stash; most fabric belt patterns require less than a yard of fabric, so you may not even need to make a trip to the fabric store. I recommend first going through these patterns and finding the exact belt you're looking for, and then shopping your stash for the fabric you'll need.
Without further ado, learn how to make a fabric belt/sash with these patterns!
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Table of Contents
Basic Fabric Belt Patterns
These fabric belt patterns are made using a belt buckle and minimal fabric for a more classic belt look and shape. While you might think that this narrows your possibilities, you'd be surprised the kind of unique looks you can get with the right fabric and a funky belt buckle! There's even a pattern for a kid's belt below if you're looking for something for your child or grandchild.
Scrapbusting Fabric Belt Patterns
If you have too much dang fabric and just can't justify buying more for such a small project... well, join the club. The following free fabric belt patterns are either skinny and made using a very small amount of fabric, or are made using two or more fabrics pieced together so you can bust that stash of yours. I love these sorts of belts for a more eclectic look, and I bet you will, too.
Simple No-Buckle Fabric Belt Patterns
No buckle? No problem! Sometimes hardware can just get in the way, or you thought you had a few spare belt buckles lying around, but you've come up empty-handed and need a new belt ASAP. There are plenty of options for belts to avoid the buckle, such as tying belts, stretchy fabrics, or clever fasteners made from other materials. These kinds of fabric belts are my personal favorite for dresses.
Statement Belt Patterns
If you plan on your belt doing all of the heavy-lifting in your outfit, this is the section for you. These big, bold, and beautiful belts shine the most on simple outfits with minimal patterns, and make for a great conversation piece at a cocktail party or a backyard barbecue. Prepare to be dazzled with these delightful free belt sewing patterns!
What's your favorite use for belts?
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