The Birgitta Helmersson ZW Cropped Shirt PDF Sewing Pattern offers an innovative approach to dressmaking by combining contemporary style with sustainable zero waste pattern cutting. Instead of printing full-size paper pattern pieces, you'll draw the pattern directly onto your fabric using the included cutting layouts and printable templates, helping you create a beautiful garment while generating little to no fabric waste.
Designed with an oversized, boxy silhouette, the ZW Cropped Shirt features an attached neckband with button fastening, decorative facings at the back and sides, and the option to sew either the original cropped sleeves or a longer gathered sleeve with a cuff. The clever zero waste drafting method also makes it easy to adapt the design by adjusting the garment length or working with different fabric widths.
Suitable for confident beginners, this pattern introduces an accessible way to learn zero waste pattern cutting while building confidence with garment construction techniques including buttonholes, facings and neckbands.
As a digital sewing pattern, your files are available to download instantly after purchase. Unlike traditional PDF sewing patterns, there are no full-size pattern sheets to print. Instead, you'll receive a comprehensive instruction booklet, cutting layouts and small printable templates that guide you through drafting the pattern directly onto your fabric.
What is a Zero Waste Sewing Pattern?
Zero waste sewing patterns are designed to use almost every centimetre of your fabric, dramatically reducing fabric waste compared to traditional sewing patterns.
Rather than cutting around large printed paper pattern pieces, you'll draw the pattern directly onto your fabric using the included cutting diagrams and templates. This method not only saves paper, but also makes it easier to customise garment length, adapt to different fabric widths and even make use of leftover fabrics or patchworked remnants.
Birgitta Helmersson's innovative drafting method is ideal for anyone interested in sustainable sewing, mindful fabric use and learning new pattern cutting techniques.
PDF Pattern Includes
Instant PDF download
Instruction booklet
Zero waste cutting layouts
Printable cutting templates (A4 & US Letter)
Metric and imperial measurements
Home printer compatible
Suitable for viewing digitally or printing required templates only
Size Information
This pattern is supplied in two inclusive size ranges, with instructions included for both.
Size One
EU 36–44 | Bust: 86–104cm | Waist: 66–84cm | Hip: 88–108cm
Size Two
EU 46–52 | Bust: 105–128cm | Waist: 85–110cm | Hip: 109–135cm
The pattern also includes guidance for sizing up further to approximately 150cm bust and hip by adjusting fabric width.
Finished Garment Measurements
Size One
Length: 54cm | Body circumference: 125cm | Sleeve length: 30cm | Sleeve circumference: 53cm
Size Two
Length: 59cm | Body circumference: 140cm | Hip circumference: 155cm | Sleeve length: 40.5cm | Sleeve circumference: 64cm
Fabric Requirements
| Size |
Recommended Fabric Width |
Fabric Required |
| Size One |
135–155cm (53–61") |
90cm (Approx. 1 yard) |
| Size Two |
135–155cm (53–61") |
100cm (Approx. 1.1 yards) |
Sewing Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Helpful Links + Tutorials
Explore other makes on insta #zwcroppedshirt
SEWING THE CROPPED SHIRT - IN FULL
SLEEVELESS HACK
(VERY) GATHERED SLEEVE HACK FOR ZW CROPPED SHIRT OR ZW GATHER DRESS)
