Hi! I'm Natalie, aka Sew hungry hippie. I'm so glad you're here!

At Sew Hungry Hippie, I create bag sewing patterns, garment patterns, and quilt patterns to help you make something you love, whatever your skill level. You'll also find colorful bag-making supplies and sewing tutorials to help you try new things with confidence.

From Army Nurse to Sewing Pattern Designer

I'm a former Army Nurse Corps Officer turned tree-hugging, granola-eating hippie. My husband served 20 years in the Air Force, so we have an ongoing love and appreciation for our military community.

When I left the Army, he teased that I was becoming a "hungry hippie" because I did hot yoga and made my own granola. I also taught exercise classes and worked as an ACE-certified personal trainer. These days, my creative energy goes into sewing and helping other makers.

I believe everyone can do it, as long as you think you can! A little confidence goes a long way. That perfection-seeking mindset? Let's leave it behind and enjoy making.

Sewing Patterns and Bag-Making Supplies

Sewhungryhippie is a one-stop shop for bag makers and makers of all kinds. Here's what you'll find:

• Sewing patterns: Bag, garment, and quilt patterns in PDF or printed formats.
• Vinyl and faux leather: Colorful, domestic-sewing-machine-friendly materials, including clear and fabric-backed options.
• Cork: Materials for bags, wallets, and accessories.
• Sewing notions, tools, and bag hardware: Zippers, clasps, and useful gadgets to finish your projects.
• Video courses: Step-by-step lessons so you can sew along with confidence.

I only sell what I use and would buy myself.

Learn to Sew Vinyl, Bags, and More

New to sewing vinyl or faux leather? I've got you covered! I've been sewing vinyl since 2010, and my tips for sewing with specialty vinyls are a great place to start.

I also design flowy, free-feeling clothing patterns, including the Jill Tunic. You'll find free sewing tutorials on this website and free demos on my YouTube channel.

Sign up for my newsletter for easy-to-click links, special deals, and plenty of sewing inspiration.

A Few Questions Makers Ask

Can I sell items I make with your patterns?

Yes! You can sell what you make with my patterns on a home-based scale.

Can I sew your vinyl on a domestic sewing machine?

Yes, my vinyl is domestic-machine-friendly. Visit the Vinyl Tips page for help getting started.

Can I share my finished projects with you?

Yes! I love it when you tag me on Instagram or Facebook. YAY! I will share your work.

The Person Behind the Patterns

I'm a mom, a pug mama, and a huge animal lover. Our pug was rescued from a breeder. I've also had a Rottweiler named Barbie who could close doors on command and understood English and Spanish, plus two mixed-breed dogs we took in off the streets of San Antonio.

I've lived around the country and in England, spent a short time in Germany, and served in Iraq with the 21st CSH unit in 2003–2004.

I raced bikes on an all-women's team in Washington, DC, and ran the Chicago Marathon at 19 because it was a personal goal. I've done more races and triathlons than I can count, and I wasn't exactly a top finisher! I kept showing up anyway.

It's okay to keep trying, keep doing, and keep honing your skills, even if you're not the top dog. It builds inner confidence.

I climbed Kilimanjaro in 2017, which inspired the tattoo on my right forearm. It humbled me something fierce. Kili is no joke!

I'm an INFJ, though my friends question that result. I may seem extroverted, but I need my quiet time alone, too. What about you? I genuinely love hearing people's stories.

Making, Community, and Giving Back

I'm in this for the love of sewing and making. We give back to charities every year, including St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Doctors Without Borders, Wounded Warriors, and others.

My quilt and bag patterns have also been featured in quilting and sewing magazines.

Get Help with Sewing Patterns and Materials

My dedicated staff is eager to help with your sewing patterns and materials.

• Email: help@sewhungryhippie.com
• Phone: 888-351-3869
• Phone hours: Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Central Time. If we're on the other line, leave a message and we'll call you back.

Let's Stay Connected

Find me on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. I'd love to see what you're making!

Thank you for your support! I hope I can serve you in the most joyful way and show you how amazing YOU ARE, just exactly as you are. ❤️

—Natalie