Summer Staples: Swimsuits
Summer Staples
Indie, Commercial and Free Swimsuit Patterns
Free Swim Patterns
Mood Fabrics Sewciety has over a dozen FREE swim sewing patterns, but these are three of my favorites. I’ve yet to sew up any of them but the Reed has be on my list for a few years.
The Sherwood is an asymmetrical neckline, a side cut out and a lace up feature.
The Reed features a twist front, flutter sleeve top and high waisted bottoms.
The Azure is a tankini with ruffle features on the straps and skirt.
See more Free Mood patterns here.
Indie Swim Patterns
Edgewater Ave is known for their large collection of swim patterns, offering everything from skimpy bikinis to flattering one pieces and everthing in between. I’ve test several Edgewater Ave patterns so I can endorse them, my only issue is some of the patterns I’d love to sew are not offered in the larger size despite the company saying they would grade up all the patterns for years. To be fair they have expanded several, the older patterns are mostly discounted and when the size range is increased you get all sizes for one price. Any way I’ve included the Leila top and Amelia bottoms which pair nicely together and the Athena one piece. I tested the Amelia and Athena though they were never posted on the blog. Another plus is almost all the swim patterns are reversible.
Made for Mermaid and Patterns for Pirates and I selected one suit from each. The Amalfi three piece set from Made for Mermaids is unique because the top is two pieces and can be worn about a dozen ways. The bottoms have two leg rise options and are slight cheeky. Patterns for Pirates design the Palm Springs one piece that has optional straps. Something about the black and white cover version makes me think of the b&w striped swimsuit on the orginal 1950’s Barbie. Do you see it? There’s an optional belt, optional shelf bra and two leg rises.
Lastly is the newly released Breakwater swimsuit from Helen’s Closet. I really like the front and back cutouts of the one piece as well as the drawstring neck that allows for varied coverage. There’s also a second view is you prefer a two piece set.
Big 4 Patterns
McCalls 8330/8329 contains 3 swim options with two top, one bottom and one one piece view. I’ve sewn a sew using View B & C which I loved, here, for Black Sewing Network’s Barbie Pink challenge.
Vogue 9192 also offers multiple views. Choose from a wrap top bikini, one shoulder one piece, deep V one piece and either a dress or skirt cover up.
If you prefer a bit more coverage check out McCalls 7417 which offers a rashguard two piece set. There is an option for a cropped or hip length rashguard and high or low waist bikini bottom. Girls sizes are also included!
