Tried and True Sewing Patterns: Build Your Wardrobe

If you’ve ever heard sewists talk about a “TNT pattern” and wondered what that meant, you’re not alone! TNT sewing patterns stand for Tried and True — the patterns you’ve tested, tweaked, and love so much that they’ve become staples in your sewing lineup.

These are the sewing patterns you reach for again and again — the ones that always fit well, suit your personal style, and make you excited to sew. You can trust them with that special fabric because you already know the finished garment will turn out beautifully.  Read on or watch here:  

Why You Need Tried and True Sewing Patterns

Building a strong base of TNT sewing patterns can completely transform your sewing experience. Here’s why they matter:

1. They’re the Foundation of Your Wardrobe

TNT sewing patterns form the backbone of a handmade wardrobe. These are your most-worn basics — the jeans, t-shirts, and button-ups that mix and match effortlessly. Once you’ve perfected the fit, you can make multiple versions and never get bored.

2. They’re Perfect When You’re in a Sewing Rut

When inspiration runs low, reach for one of your tried and true sewing patterns. You’ll get that instant satisfaction of a project you know will be a success, without the stress of fitting or new techniques.

3. They’re Easy to Customize

Once you’ve nailed the fit, TNT patterns are fantastic for pattern hacking. Change a neckline, swap sleeves, or add a new hemline — you can recreate looks inspired by ready-to-wear fashion using your tried-and-true base pattern.

4. They Let Your Fabric Shine

Because you already know the silhouette and fit, TNT sewing patterns are perfect for showing off that special fabric you’ve been saving. The fabric takes center stage, while the construction feels familiar and easy.

How TNT Sewing Patterns Help Build a Cohesive Wardrobe

If you’ve followed me for a while, you know I’m a big fan of wardrobe building. TNT sewing patterns are essential for that process! When paired with a cohesive color palette, your handmade wardrobe becomes more mix-and-match friendly.

Whether you’ve had your colors professionally analyzed or just gravitate toward certain shades, sewing within a palette makes fabric shopping and outfit planning so much simpler and ensures everything you make actually gets worn. I have my colors defined through Color Guru*.  I'm a Copper Spring. You can find out your color palette and get 10% off by using code TOMKATCOLOR at checkout.

My Favorite TNT Sewing Patterns

I like to group my TNT sewing patterns into two categories: Tier One, the everyday workhorses, and Tier Two, the special favorites.

Tier One: Everyday Essentials

These are the sewing patterns I can have multiples of in my closet because they’re the foundation of my daily wardrobe.

• Cashmerette Concord T-Shirt* – My go-to fitted t-shirt. I’ve made it with scoop, V-neck, and boat necklines — and even hacked it into a dress.
• Cashmerette Vernon Shirt* – My classic button-up. I’ve made it in solids, stripes, and denim with small customizations like ruffled necklines and different cuffs.
• Cashmerette Stanton Hoodie* – My casual go-to. I’ve made it as a zip-up, pullover, and even a “sweater” version by removing the hood.
• Love Notions Legato Jeans* – My reliable jeans pattern. Once I got the fit right, I started adjusting the leg width for different looks.
• Love Notions Bridget Trousers* – A newer TNT pattern that fits beautifully and works in a variety of fabrics.
• Cashmerette Grafton* & Upton Dresses* – These patterns are incredibly versatile with mix-and-match sleeves, bodices, and skirts.

Tier Two: Style Favorites

These are the sewing patterns I love to wear but only need a couple of versions of in my wardrobe.

• Cashmerette Roseclair Wrap Dress* – A wrap dress that fits perfectly and works in multiple sleeve styles.
• Love Notions Tidal Dress* – A flattering silhouette I’ve made in both maxi and knee-length versions.
• Pattern Emporium Wanderlust Dress* – My pick for bold, large-scale prints thanks to its clean, uninterrupted lines.

How to Build Your Own TNT Sewing Pattern List

When deciding which sewing patterns to make your tried and true, start by asking:

• What garments do I wear most often?
• Which sewing patterns have I already made more than once?
• Where would a reliable base pattern save me time — jeans, tees, or skirts?

Start with a couple of patterns and refine from there. The goal isn’t to have dozens of TNTs, but to have a handful that help you sew confidently and build a cohesive, wearable wardrobe.

If you are considering adding any of these patterns to your stash, be sure to check my RESOURCES page for discount codes!

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