If you already sew and are choosing a menswear pattern for the first time, the decision doesn’t need to feel complicated

What to consider when choosing your first menswear sewing pattern

The best first menswear patterns aren’t about learning every technique at once — they’re about choosing a style that is forgiving, wearable and genuinely useful to the person you’re sewing for.

This guide walks you through which patterns work best as a starting point, and how to choose between them with confidence.

The million dollar question

Am I good enough?

Spoiler alert: yes, yes you are!

What makes a good first menswear sewing pattern?

Before looking at specific patterns, it helps to know what actually matters when sewing for men and boys.

Strong starting patterns tend to share a few things in common:

  • A familiar, recognisable style

    Men are more likely to wear garments that feel practical and easy to understand.

  • A relaxed or forgiving fit

    This reduces pressure around sizing and makes the finished garment more comfortable
    to wear.

  • Flexibility with fabric choice

    Patterns that work across several fabric types are easier to personalise.

  • Clear Construction

    You want to learn menswear techniques without stepping straight into tailoring.

Best First Menswear Sewing Pattern

A practical comparison (start here)

Pattern type Why it works as a first menswear project Skill confidence needed Best for
Camp Collar Shirt Relaxed fit, familiar style, minimal fitting stress, and highly wearable. Introduces menswear details without tailoring. Confident beginner → intermediate Gifts, summer wear, everyday shirts
Elastic-Waist Shorts Straightforward construction and forgiving fit. A good way to understand men’s proportions. Beginner Casual wear, lounge, warm climates
Relaxed Robe Simple shapes with soft structure make this a low-risk, satisfying first menswear project. Beginner → confident beginner At-home wear, thoughtful gifts

If you want one pattern that balances ease, versatility, and wearability — the Camp Collar Shirt is usually the best place to start.

Why the Camp Collar Shirt works so well as a first choice

The Camp Collar Shirt sits in a practical middle ground that makes it an ideal starting
point:

  • It feels like a complete, everyday garment rather than a practice piece
  • The relaxed fit reduces pressure around exact sizing
  • Fabric choice does most of the styling work
  • The same pattern suits boys and men, making it ideal for gift sewing

For many sewers, it becomes the entry point into menswear — and a pattern they return to
again with different fabrics and finishes.

How to Refine Your Choice

Style · Occasion · Season

Once you’ve chosen a good starting pattern, refine your decision using three simple lenses you can reuse for future projects: Style, Occasion, and Season.

This approach keeps decisions practical and avoids overthinking.

STYLE

What should the garment feel like on him?

You don’t need to define his style perfectly — just choose the direction you want the garment to reflect.

Most men’s styles tend to sit broadly in one of these areas:

  • Classic & Refined

Clean lines, timeless appeal, and versatile dressing. Shirts that feel appropriate in most settings and don’t draw unnecessary attention.

  • Relaxed & Natural

Easy, breathable, and comfortable. Well suited to casual wear, weekends and warm climates.

  • Bold & Expressive

Confident use of colour, pattern, or texture. Suits statement fabrics and strong personalities.

  • Rugged & Modern

Strong silhouettes with a functional edge. Workwear-inspired but still considered.

A note on body and comfort:
Relaxed silhouettes are generally more forgiving and easier to wear, especially when sewing as a gift. Look for patterns that include clear finished garment
measurements, so you can choose a size that allows for comfort and movement rather than relying on body measurements alone.

For curated inspiration: Camp Collar Style Guide

mens jacket art of capsule wardrobe

Occasion

Where will he actually wear it?

Think about when and how the garment will be worn:

  • Everyday wear – comfort, durability, and repeatability matter
  • Work or smart-casual settings – clean finishes and practical fabric choices
  • Parties, holidays, or special events – a distinctive fabric or colour can make the garment feel intentional without being overdone

This helps ensure the finished garment fits naturally into his life, not just the sewing plan.

contented man in capsule wardrobe

SEASON

When will it be worn?

Season quietly influences both comfort and practicality:

  • Spring / Summer – lighter fabrics, short sleeves, breathable construction
  • Autumn / Winter – longer sleeves, warmer fabrics, and layering potential

For example, the same camp collar shirt pattern might suit a short-sleeve version for warmer months, or a long-sleeve option then the weather is cooler.

Avoid these common first-time menswear mistakes

Beginning with a relaxed, versatile pattern avoids all three and makes the experience far
more satisfying

  • x - starting with patterns that require tailoring skills

  • x - choosing stiff or unforgiving fabrics

  • x - focusing on trends rather than wearability

  • Simple Pattern

  • Clear Instructions

  • Quick To Action

Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a First Menswear Sewing Pattern

What is the best menswear sewing pattern to start with?

For most people sewing for men or boys, a Camp Collar Shirt is one of the most reliable places to start. The style is familiar, the fit is relaxed, and it introduces key menswear construction without stepping into tailoring.

Some prior sewing experience is helpful, as the collar can feel unfamiliar at first, but with clear, step-by-step instructions this becomes very manageable even if it’s your first time sewing a shirt.

Are men’s sewing patterns harder than women’s?

Not necessarily. Men’s patterns often have simpler shapes and fewer fitting variations, but they do rely more on clean construction and accurate sizing. Starting with a relaxed style makes the process much more straightforward.

What should I sew first when sewing for men?

A relaxed, everyday garment is usually the best first choice. Shirts, elastic-waist shorts, or a relaxed robe allow you to focus on construction and fit without complex shaping.

How do I choose the right size when sewing for men?

Look for patterns that include finished garment measurements, not just body measurements. This allows you to choose a size that gives the wearer enough ease for comfort and movement, which is especially important when sewing as a gift.

My patterns are a 'relaxed' fit which generally gives 15-20cm ease between Body and Finished Garment measurement. You will find more information about measurements here.

What fabrics are easiest to sew for menswear projects?

Lightweight to medium-weight woven fabrics are usually the easiest to work with. Cotton, linen, cotton blends, and soft twills are forgiving, comfortable to wear, and suit many menswear styles.

Is a camp collar shirt a good handmade gift for men?

Yes. The Camp Collar Shirt is popular as a handmade gift because it feels casual but intentional, suits a wide range of ages and styles, and can be easily personalised through fabric choice.

Do I need tailoring skills to start sewing menswear?

No. Many menswear patterns — especially relaxed styles — do not require tailoring skills. Starting with simple construction helps you build confidence before moving on to more structured garments.

Can the same menswear pattern be used in different seasons?

Often, yes. Many patterns can be adapted by changing sleeve length and fabric weight, making them suitable for both warmer and cooler seasons.

Worried your sewing isn't good enough?

I beg to differ...

Sewers at all levels can accomplish anything with clear instructions, curiosity and persistence.

Ready? Start here...