DIY Hoodie Sewing Pattern PDF – How to Sew Hoodies

In this post, you’ll learn how to sew a hoodie with a free pattern.

Have you ever wanted to sew your own comfortable hoodie — the kind that feels like a warm hug — but weren’t sure where to begin? You’re in the right place! In this step-by-step tutorial, I’ll show you exactly how to make a classic pullover hoodie that’s perfect for both men and women.

Unisex Style

The fit is unisex and slightly boxy, so for women it gives that effortlessly oversized, cozy look that’s perfect for everyday wear. And for men, it’s a regular, comfortable fit — just like your favorite RTW hoodie (ready-to-wear).

Free Hoodie Sewing Pattern in 6 Sizes

You can download the free hoodie pattern (PDF file) in 6 sizes (XS–2XL) and follow along with my video tutorial on my YouTube channel. Every step is explained clearly so even an advanced beginner can sew it confidently.

Hoodie Sewing Pattern — At-a-Glance

Quick reference for this free hoodie sewing pattern — a comfy, casual project perfect for anyone learning to sew stretch knits or cozy DIY loungewear.

Skill level

Advanced beginner sewing stretch fabric

Time

3–6 hours includes cutting & pressing

Sizes included

XS–XXL free PDF download

Pattern pieces

Front ×2, Back (on fold), Sleeves ×2, Hood ×2, Pocket ×1, Cuffs ×2, Waistband ×1 1 cm seam allowance

Fabric ideas

Sweatshirt fleece, French terry, cotton knit, bamboo fleece, or recycled knit fabric

Options

Add drawstrings, cropped hem, contrast hood lining, or oversized fit unisex style

Fit & style

Relaxed, slightly oversized fit for layering everyday wear

Notions

Matching thread, ballpoint needle, rib knit for cuffs & hem, optional drawstring & eyelets

Care

Prewash fabric; gentle cycle, cold water, line dry or tumble low

If you’re new to sewing knits, I recommend starting with these easy knit fabric projects before trying more advanced garments.

Why You’ll Love This Hoodie Pattern

Sewing your own hoodie is not only a great weekend project — it’s a chance to make something truly yours. You can pick your favorite knit fabric, choose your perfect fabric weight, and play with all the small details that make your hoodie unique.

When you sew it yourself, you control everything:

• The fit — relaxed, cropped, or classic pullover style
• The fabric type — light jersey for spring or cozy sweatshirt fleece for winter
• The details — add a kangaroo pocket, drawstring hood, or even a zip-up hoodie version next time

You’ll end up with a comfortable hoodie that’s just your style — and once you make one, you’ll definitely want to sew a second hoodie.

What You’ll Need to Sew a Hoodie

Before you start cutting, gather all your materials and tools. Having everything ready makes sewing much smoother.

Recommended Fabric Types

Fabric Type	Weight	Stretch	Perfect For
Cotton fleece	Medium–heavy	20–40%	Warm hoodies for autumn/winter
French terry	Medium	30–50%	Everyday wear, comfy fit
Sweatshirt fleece	Heavy	10–30%	Structured, classic look
Jersey knit	Light	40–60%	Lightweight or cropped hoodies
Rib knit	Medium	50–70%	Cuff pieces, hem bands, and neck trims

Tip: Always prewash your fabric! Knit fabrics can shrink a little after the first wash, so it’s a good idea to wash and dry them before cutting your pattern pieces.

Knit Fabrics

If you haven’t sewn with knits before, don’t worry — it just takes a bit of practice! I’ve written two helpful guides that will make your hoodie project go much smoother:

• 👉 How to Sew with Stretch Fabric: A Guide for Beginners learn about the best stitches, needles, and how to handle stretchy fabric without puckering.
• 👉 Sewing Knits: 9 Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them a quick read that’ll help you avoid all the usual knit-sewing troubles.

It’s a good idea to give those a look before starting this hoodie — once you understand how knit fabric behaves, sewing it feels so much easier (and way more fun!).

Sustainable Sewing Options

One of the best parts about sewing your own clothes is how easy it is to make them more sustainable. A hoodie might seem like a simple project, but your fabric choices can make a big difference — both for the planet and your wardrobe.

If you love the idea of creating comfortable hoodies that last for years, here are a few ways to sew more thoughtfully:

1. Use What You Already Have

Check your fabric stash or look through old clothes before buying new yardage. A large men’s sweatshirt, a soft blanket, or even wide fabric scraps from another project can often be turned into your next hoodie. Cutting small pieces for cuffs or pockets from leftovers is a great way to reduce waste — and gives your hoodie a one-of-a-kind look.

2. Choose Natural or Recycled Fabrics

Opt for cotton fleeces, french terry, or organic sweatshirt fleece made with recycled fibers when possible. These fabric types not only feel amazing on the skin, but they also breathe better and last longer. Recycled polyester blends can also be a good idea if you want durability and moisture resistance.

3. Sew to Last

Take your time with finishing touches — press every seam, check your side seams and bottom edges, and use a durable top stitch around high-wear areas like the kangaroo pocket or hood seam. A few extra minutes here make your hoodie look and feel like a high-quality RTW hoodie.

4. Repurpose and Reuse

Got an older hoodie that’s too worn to wear? Cut it apart and use the main pieces as a test pattern or a lining for your second hoodie. Even small bits can become thumbhole cuffs or patchwork panels. Nothing goes to waste, and you’ll learn so much about fit and construction in the process.

Sustainable sewing isn’t about perfection — it’s about making small, thoughtful choices that add up over time. When you make your own hoodie, you’re already taking a step toward slower, more mindful fashion — and that’s something to feel good about.

How Much Fabric You’ll Need

Size	Fabric Width (150 cm / 60 in)	Amount Needed
XS–S	1.6 m (1¾ yd)	Light–medium knits (fleece, French terry)
M–L	1.8 m (2 yd)	Medium sweatshirt fleece
XL–2XL	2.0 m (2¼ yd)	Heavier fleece or wide fabric

Tip: If you plan to add color blocking or a lined hood, grab a few small pieces of contrast fabric — it’s a great way to use up leftovers.

Tools & Notions

Item	Description
Fabric scissors or rotary cutter	For clean, accurate cutting
Ballpoint or stretch needle (size 75/11 or 80/12)	Prevents skipped stitches on knits
Polyester thread	Strong and slightly stretchy
Fabric clips or pins	Clips work best for knits — no snags!
Sewing machine	A regular machine with zigzag or stretch stitch works great
Measuring tape + tailor’s chalk	For marking and accuracy
Optional: Overlocker (serger)	Gives professional-looking seams
Zipper foot	If you’re adding a zipper version or want neat topstitching
Fusible interfacing	Optional for stabilizing pocket openings or hood edges

Wondering which tools I actually reach for when I sew? This quick note highlights my go-to favorites for cutting, drafting, and upcycling—what they’re for, and why I love them—so you can stock your table with exactly what you’ll use. Read the full list here: Best Sewing, Pattern Drafting & Upcycling Tools I Use.

See my tools →

What Measurements You’ll Need to Pick the Right Pattern Size for Hoodie Sewing Pattern

To choose the correct hoodie size, the most important measurement is your chest (bust). This ensures your hoodie fits comfortably across the shoulders and body without feeling tight or oversized.

How to measure your chest:

1. Stand naturally with your arms relaxed at your sides.
2. Wrap a measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest — usually right under your armpits and across your shoulder blades.
3. Make sure the tape is snug but not tight, and keep it parallel to the floor.

Once you have your measurement, compare it with the size chart included in the pattern download . If you’re between sizes, it’s usually best to choose the larger size — you can always take it in slightly later, especially if you’ll be wearing layers underneath.

Size Chart for Hoodie Sewing Pattern

Hoodie Sewing Pattern – Just for You!

To make this project easy for everyone, I’ve created a free sewing pattern for my subscribers available in six sizes (S–XXL) at the end of the post .

Assembling Hoodie Sewing Pattern

Check out my detailed posts on how to print, cut-out, and assemble PDF patterns.

• How to print and assemble free PDF patterns
• How to cut out sewing patterns with tips and tools

Seam Allowance

The pattern already includes the seam allowance !.

Learn more:

• How to add seam allowance in sewing

Pattern Pieces & Cutting Guide

Pattern Piece	Cut Quantity	Placement	Notes
Front bodice	1	On fold	Main piece of the hoodie
Back bodice	1	On fold	Forms the back body
Sleeve	2	Mirror images	Mark top center for sleeve seams
Hood	2	Mirror images	Join along the curved edge
Kangaroo pocket	1	On fold	Optional
Cuffs	2	From rib knit	Fold in half when sewing
Waistband / Hem band	2	From ribbing	Join short ends into a loop

Cutting tip: Make sure the stretch runs horizontally across the body. Always keep right sides together when sewing unless noted otherwise.

Step-by-Step Sewing Tutorial

1. Prepare the Pocket

Fold the top edge of the kangaroo pocket toward the wrong side of the fabric by 2 cm (¾ in). Press it flat, then top stitch across the folded edge with your sewing machine.

Place the pocket on the front bodice, aligning the side edges of the pocket evenly.

Pin or clip it in place.

Stitch along the sides and bottom edges, leaving the top open.

Press the seam flat for a smooth finish.

This creates the classic cozy pocket openings that make a hoodie so practical.

2. Sew the Shoulder Seams

Place the front and back right sides together and sew both shoulder seams using a stretch stitch or overlocker. Press the seam allowances toward the back.

Pro tip: Add clear elastic or stay tape along the shoulder seam to prevent stretching over time.

3. Attach the Sleeves

Lay your hoodie flat with the bodice right side up.

Align each sleeve seam center mark with the shoulder seam. Pin from the center out toward the edges, then sew.

Sew using a stretch stitch or serger.

Make sure to keep an even seam allowance (1 cm / ⅜ in works well). The sleeve is already sewn on.

4. Sew the Side Seams

Fold the hoodie right sides together, matching the underarm and side seams carefully.

Pin from the sleeve hem down to the bottom edges of the hoodie.

Sew in one continuous line from wrist to hem. This will give your hoodie its basic pullover shape.

This is what the sweater will look like after sewing.

5. Assemble the Hood

Outer Hood: Place the two hood pieces right sides together and sew along the curved edge (the back seam).
Lining Hood: Repeat the same if you’re adding a lining.

Join outer and lining hoods right sides together along the front edges.

Sew with a 1 cm seam allowance.

Then turn right side out.

(Optional: Top stitch the hood seam for a cleaner look.)

6. Attach the Hood to the Hoodie

Match the hood’s center back to the neckline center back and align the front edges.

Clip or pin evenly.

Sew around the neckline using a stretch stitch, gently easing the hood in place. Finish the seam with a serger or zigzag stitch.

You can also top stitch the neckline to keep the seam flat — use your zipper foot for precision if you like a close edge stitch.

7. Sew the Cuffs

Sew each cuff piece into a loop, right sides together.

Press the seam flat.

Fold each cuff in half lengthwise with the raw edges meeting.

Insert each cuff into its sleeve opening, right sides together.

Stretch the cuff slightly so it fits evenly around the sleeve.

Sew using a stretch stitch.

Tip: If your fabric isn’t very stretchy, you can slightly widen the cuff pattern for comfort.

8. Prepare the Waistband

Cut 2 hem band pieces — typically from rib knit or the same fabric as your cuffs.

Place them right sides together and sew along the short ends to form a loop.
Press the seam allowance open or to one side to keep it flat.

Fold the waistband loop in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, aligning the raw edges.
This folded edge will be the finished bottom of your hoodie.

Next, divide both the waistband and the bottom edge of the hoodie into four equal sections.

Use pins or clips to mark these quarter points — this ensures the waistband stretches evenly when you attach it.

With right sides together, align the waistband loop to the bottom edge of the hoodie, matching each quarter mark.
Pin or clip all around.

Sew the waistband in place using a stretch stitch or serger, gently stretching the waistband to fit — but don’t stretch the hoodie fabric itself.

Once it’s attached, press the seam downward for a clean, professional finish.

Pro Tip: If you’d like a more relaxed or oversized look, you can lengthen the waistband slightly before sewing.

If you want thumbhole cuffs or a maternity option, you can easily adapt the cuff pattern — just extend it slightly and leave a small opening before closing.

9. Final Finishing Touches

• Press every seam: Use a warm iron with steam (if your fabric allows). Pressing helps all seams lay flat and gives that professional finish.
• Trim threads: Check around the hood, cuffs, and waistband.
• Inspect details: Make sure the side seams align, both sleeves are even, and the waistband seam isn’t twisted.

Add a drawstring hood or small woven label inside the neckline if you want a more polished look.

Prefer Learning Visually? Watch the Hoodie Sewing Video Tutorial

If you prefer learning by watching, I’ve got you covered!
You can follow the entire hoodie sewing process step-by-step in my video tutorial — from cutting the pattern pieces and sewing the shoulder seams, to attaching the hood seam and finishing the cuffs and waistband.

It’s the same unisex hoodie pattern shown in this post, so you can easily sew along at your own pace. Just grab your PDF pattern, prepare your knit fabric, and press play — I’ll guide you through every step until your new comfortable hoodie is ready to wear!

If you enjoyed this tutorial, don’t forget to give it a thumbs up, leave a comment, and subscribe to my channel — it really helps me know you’d like to see more sewing projects like this! 💛

I love connecting with you, so if you make your own hoodie, share your creation with me on Instagram or Facebook — I can’t wait to see your version! Your support truly inspires me to keep creating more free patterns and step-by-step tutorials for you.

Optional Variations

Once you’ve made your first hoodie, you can try different looks next time:

• Add a zipper for a zip-up hoodie (use a zipper foot to sew the zipper seams neatly).
• Try raglan sleeves for a sporty look.
• For cozy loungewear, scale it up for a blanket hoodie style.

How to Style Your Handmade Hoodie

Your new hoodie is one of those pieces you’ll want to wear everywhere — it’s simple, soft, and goes with just about anything. For a relaxed, everyday look, pair it with your favorite jeans or joggers and comfy sneakers. It’s perfect for layering on cooler days too.

If you made the handmade men’s jacket from my previous tutorial, this hoodie works beautifully underneath it — the boxy fit layers easily without feeling bulky. You can also dress it up a little by wearing it under a denim or quilted jacket for that effortless, casual street style vibe.

For a lighter summer-to-fall outfit, pair the hoodie with a simple T-shirt and my men’s linen shorts pattern. The relaxed linen shorts keep the outfit breathable while the hoodie adds an easy layer for cooler evenings.

And for cozy days at home? Just pair it with soft lounge pants or leggings and you’ve got the perfect outfit for relaxing, sewing, or heading out for coffee.

FAQ – Unisex Hoodie Free Sewing Pattern

Do I get a free hoodie pattern with this tutorial?

Yes, this tutorial comes with a free sewing pattern for a classic pullover hoodie. It’s a PDF pattern in 6 sizes (XS–2XL) and includes a size chart and all main pattern pieces.

What kind of fabric is best for this hoodie?

The hoodie is designed for knit fabric with enough stretch, like french terry, cotton fleeces, sweatshirt fleece or medium jersey. Avoid very thin knits if you want a warm, everyday wear hoodie.

Is this hoodie pattern really unisex?

Yes, it’s a unisex, boxy style. On men it looks like a regular RTW hoodie, and on women it has a relaxed, slightly oversized fit. It works great as a basic pattern for your first or second hoodie.

What seam allowance is included?

The pattern pieces include a standard seam allowance (noted on the PDF sewing patterns). Use the same seam allowance on shoulder seams, side seams, sleeve seams and hood seam unless the instructions say otherwise.

How do I print the PDF file?

You can print the PDF file at home on A4/Letter paper or use copy shop printing / PDF plotting. Make sure your printer is set to 100% scale before cutting your paper patterns.

Is there a video tutorial for this hoodie?

Yes, there is a full step-by-step video tutorial on my YouTube channel. You’ll see the whole process on a regular machine: from cutting the main piece and kangaroo pocket to sewing cuffs, waistband and hood.

So Comfy Hoodie is Ready to Wear !

And that’s it — your handmade hoodie with long sleeves is ready! You’ve just created one of the most versatile garments you can own: a comfortable hoodie that you designed and sewed yourself.

Whether you used cotton fleeces, french terry, or sweatshirt fleece, each fabric type gives a slightly different feel — and once you start sewing hoodies, you’ll quickly find your best fabric favorites.

Don’t forget to share your finished hoodie and tag @SparrowRefashion — I love seeing your versions!
And if you want to follow along with more tutorials, subscribe to my YouTube channel for new sewing videos, pattern hacks, and style ideas.

If you loved making this hoodie and want to keep improving your knit sewing skills, I’ve shared two helpful guides you might enjoy next:
How to Sew with Stretch Fabric: A Guide for Beginners and Sewing Knits: 9 Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them. They’re perfect reads before starting your next cozy knit project.

Happy sewing, and enjoy your cozy new hoodie! 💛

Free Printable Pattern for my Subscribers