Patterns for Pirates

P4P stylish, modern, wearable patterns

Elvira Sleeve :: A Halloween Freebie (Gala Gown Add-on)!!

Guess who is back again with another super fun freebie for Halloween?  Spooky Season is my all time favorite and I was super duper pumped to bring this sleeve to life for y’all!

The Elvira Sleeve is named after the Mistress of the Dark herself, one of the most iconic vampy ladies out there.  Honestly it’s the only name I wanted to give it after I decided to make these sleeves happen.  It’s just too perfect!

The sleeves are designed with a bat-like scalloped edge and fits along the princess seaming of the front and back bodices perfectly.  It provides for a very retro look with a little extra something!

I’m mildly obsessed with how they turned out!  (A quick sidebar before there’s any confusion, I personally only wanted a top and not a full length dress when I created my ensemble.  The skirted portion is actually the peplum length skirt from the Sweetheart Dress…I just matched it up with the bodice of the Gala Gown!)

You will need the Adult Gala Gown pattern in order to create this vampy look!  Don’t have it in your pattern collection yet?  Not to worry!  We’ve got a special discount code for you to use (through 11:59pm CST on Friday, September 30, 2022).  You can use this one time use code on the Adult, Youth, or Bundle.

Use code: SPOOKYSEASON to take advantage of the discount!

SUPPLIES NEEDED:

The Elvira Sleeve is designed to work only with the sleeved versions of the Gala Gown.  In my finished photos, I have used the cap sleeve length.  You can choose to use any of the sleeve lengths that you wish!

**To use this add-on, we are making slight changes to the original Gala Gown’s tutorial for the construction of the Main Fabric.  Steps 1 and 2 are being done in reverse, in order to attach the Elvira Sleeves to the princess seaming.

Step 1: With right sides together of main front and main back bodice pieces, stitch at shoulders.

Step 2: With right sides facing up, lay bodice piece on table in front of you.

With right sides together, align one of the sleeves along the armscye and front/back princess seams.  Baste in place.  **Just like the Gala Gown pattern itself, the single notch designates the front bodice, the double notch designates the back bodice.

**Note: The Elvira Sleeves were designed to be left unhemmed.  If you plan to hem the scalloped edges, do that now — before you attach them to the bodice in the next stop.

Step 3: With right sides together, matching at top, bottom, and bust points, pin and ease curves of main side bodice and center front bodice. Stitch.

Note: Align the top of the side bodice with the center front bodice at the seam allowance, not the top raw edge of the curve. There will be a small “dog-ear”/wedge that overhangs.  The Elvira sleeves will be wedged between the main side bodice and center front bodice.

Repeat with opposite side. With right sides together, matching at top, bottom, and bust points, pin and ease curves of other main side bodice and center front bodice. Stitch.

Repeat with Back Center Bodice and Back Side Bodice pieces.

Continue with the remainder of the Gala Gown tutorial steps, starting at Step 3: Neckline.

If I may speak for the entire P4P Team, we are SO EXCITED to see your Elvira Sleeve, Gala Gowns!  Make sure you share it with us in our Facebook Group, or tag us on Instagram (#patternsforpirates or @patternsforpirates) so we can celebrate your cute, new, vampy outfit!

Happy Halloween, Pirates!

New Pattern Release :: Gather ‘Round Dress

Gather around while we tell you all about our newest patterns!  The Gather ‘Round dress patterns are here and they’re SO FUN to make and wear.  We are so excited to share them with you!

 

The youth sizes range from 3m – 14 and the adult sizes are for the full, newer size chart, extending from XXS – Plus 5X for the Adult Hourglass Figure.

  • *Want to learn more about how to measure yourself for these pattern?  We’ve got you covered with an in-depth blog HERE.  And for even more helpful fun, we have a free* printable that you can use to help record your measurements as you take them.
  • And in case you’re new to Patterns for Pirates and PDF patterns in general, we have a great blog full of new-user tips HERE to help you get started!
  • As with all of our current releases and updates, the pdfs now include our layers feature and can be found in Letter, A4, A0 and projector sizes.
Get ready to make your new favorite dresses! The Gather ’round is a cute and comfortable dress (or top) for any occasion. You can pick from the endless options to go from summer to winter, top to long dress, a quick plain style to a more detailed and unique look.  The looser fit through the bodice means you’re open to an array of fabrics as well.  Fitted at bust and looser through underbust and waist, this pattern is not only super comfortable to wear it is also flattering with a seaming in between empire and natural waist and fitted enough at the bust to still show off some of your beautiful silhouette while floating away at just the right areas.  Not a fan of a looser waistline? That’s okay too, add on the waist ties included in the long list of options and cinch it at your waist. The tiered skirt options are so fun, you can’t help but swoosh and twirl in it… I dare you to try not to feel fun and flirty in these tiered skirts! With the huge amount of neckline, sleeve and length options in this pattern you’re sure to find the perfect one for you and loved ones you’re sewing for.
Options include: Crew Neckline, V Neckline, Gathered Crew Neckband, Mock Turtleneck, Tank/Sleeveless, Short Sleeve, 3/4 Sleeve, Long Sleeve, Gathered Cap Sleeve, Gathered Long Bishop Sleeve, Top Length (between crop and shirt), Plain Above Knee Dress, Two Tiered Above Knee Dress, Three Tiered Below Knee Dress, Waist Ties, and (of course) Pockets.
Okay….let’s check out some of the different features, modeled by our incredible testers:

VNeck | Crew | Ruffled Crew | Mock Turtleneck Necklines

Tank | Cap Sleeve | Short Sleeve | 3/4 Sleeve | Long Sleeve | Bishop Sleeve

Top Length | Plain, Above Knee Dress | 2-Tier Above Knee Dress | 3-Tier Below Knee Dress

Optional Waist Ties | Pockets

Fabric Inspirations:

Double Brushed Poly:

Sweater Knit:

Cotton Spandex:

Ribbed Knits:

Stable Knits (French Terry, Liverpool, Scuba):

Stretch Velvet:

Slinky Jerseys (rayons, polys, etc):

Textured Knits (waffle, eyelet):

Pointelle: 

We are so excited to see what you sew up with the new Gather ‘Round patterns!  Head on over to the shop, grab yourself a copy, and get to sewing!  They are available on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, September 18, 2022.

Gather ’round Adult | Gather ’round Youth | Gather ’round Bundle

Hoping for a little inspiration before diving into some Gather ‘Round sewing?  Journey over to our Facebook group where you can see tester albums full of amazing images!

Gather ’round Adult Album | Gather ’round Youth Album

But wait, there’s more!  We’ve put together an awesome “Easy Hacks” blog post, that will help you take your sewing a little further!  Go check out what Judy and Rachel put together for you, in the ways of some simple tutorials!

New Pattern Release :: Tie Up Top (Adult + Youth Sizes!)

We are super duper excited to be sharing our latest pattern to hit the P4P lineup today!  It’s perfectly timed for this in-betweener season….where you’re kinda over summer and ready for fall but still needing clothing to carry you through the warm weather.  The Tie Up Top patterns (in both Youth and Adult – Hourglass sizes) are everything you’ve been waiting for.

They’re cute.  They’re on trend.  And they’re adaptable for all the seasons you’re in, and all the seasons you’re wishing would happen sooner!

The youth sizes range from 3m – 14 and the adult sizes are for the full, newer size chart, extending from XXS – Plus 5X for the Adult Hourglass Figure.

  • *Want to learn more about how to measure yourself for these pattern?  We’ve got you covered with an in-depth blog HERE.  And for even more helpful fun, we have a free* printable that you can use to help record your measurements as you take them.
  • And in case you’re new to Patterns for Pirates and PDF patterns in general, we have a great blog full of new-user tips HERE to help you get started!
  • As with all of our current releases and updates, the pdfs now include our layers feature and can be found in Letter, A4, A0 and projector sizes.
The Tie Up Top is a perfect, flattering and versatile shirt. With all the options you can take it through all seasons from tank to long sleeves. The looser fit means you can grab almost any stretch knit fabric and make it perfect for the season you’re needing… think a lightweight, breathable rayon jersey for a summery tank to a thick, cozy sweater knit for winter time. I adore this top for an athletic look as well.  You can tie is looser in front or the crop with long ties has the option to wrap the ties around to the back and make it as fitted as you’d like at the waist. It makes a great layer over a tank, leotard, dress for a different option than an open cardigan in cooler months as well.  With the seam down the front you are open to some fun fabric combinations and it makes the construction on the ties simple and easy.
Okay….let’s check out some of the different features, modeled by our incredible testers:

Round Neckline | V Necklines

Tank | Short Sleeve | 3/4 Sleeve | Long Sleeve | Flutter Sleeve | Flare Sleeve

Crop w/Short Ties | Crop w/Long Ties | Shirt Length

The Crop with long ties can be tied both in front in a long bow or wrapped around to the back and tied in the back for a more fitted waist.

We are so excited to see what you sew up with the new Tie Up Top patterns!  Head on over to the shop, grab yourself a copy, and get to sewing!  They are available on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, August 8, 2022.

Tie Up Top – Adult Hourglass | Tie Up Top – Youth | Tie Up Top – Adult + Youth Bundle

Hoping for a little inspiration before diving into some Tie Up Top sewing?  Journey over to our Facebook group where you can see tester albums full of amazing images!

Tie Up Top Adult Album | Tie Up Top Youth Album

But wait, there’s more!  We’ve put together an awesome “Easy Hacks” blog post, that will help you take your sewing a little further!  Go check out what Judy and Rachel put together for you, in the ways of some simple tutorials!

New Pattern Release :: Valley Swing Dress (Adult + Youth Sizes!)

We are so excited to release our newest pattern by crew member Katy!

Say hello to your new favorite dress: The Valley Swing Dress, available for both our Adult Hourglass Figure (XXS – Plus 5X sizes) and Youth (3m – 14 sizes).  Like all of her pattern releases so far, Katy’s giving a nod to her home state.  The Valley Swing Dress is named after where she lives in West Virginia: the Ohio Valley.

Are you ready to swish, sway, and (of course!) swing yourself into a new pattern with us?  Let’s tell you all about it!

The Valley Swing Dress pattern lives up to it’s name, in that it’s got some swing to it!  These patterns are fitted in the bust, semi-fitted in the waist, and have an oversized fit in the hips.  The ease of the bodice creates an incredibly flattering silhouette, before it swings out to a swishy, flowy skirt.  This beginner friendly pattern is a perfect wardrobe staple for all seasons.  Pair it with a lightweight knit and a tanktop and you’ve got the cutest summer dress to keep cool in.  Or sew it up with a drapey sweater knit and some long sleeves, throw on your favorite tights and booties and you’ll be incredibly fashionable this fall and winter!  The colorblocked skirt hits right at the waist and allows for some fun pattern, print and color mixing combos.  Or just pick a plain dress option for an even faster sewing project.  Either way, you’ll love how comfortable, charming and easy this dress is to throw on!
Choose from these options:
  • tanktop, short, 3/4 and long sleeves
  • top, tunic and above-knee hem lengths
  • colorblock or plain skirted options
The Valley Swing Dress is drafted for a mid-to-lightweight knit fabric with at least 30% horizontal stretch.
Some of our favorites are: rayon spandex, ITY, poly spandex, brushed polyester, ribbed knit, waffle knit, modal, bamboo lycra, etc.
**Keep in mind that fabric content will affect drape and fit!  Stiffer/heavier fabrics, such as cotton lycra, are not recommended.  And fabrics with less recovery, such as some rayon spandex, may “grow” with wear and fit longer than intended.

The youth sizes range from 3m – 14 and the adult sizes are for the full, newer size chart, extending from XXS – Plus 5X for the Adult Hourglass Figure.

  • *Want to learn more about how to measure yourself for these pattern?  We’ve got you covered with an in-depth blog HERE.  And for even more helpful fun, we have a free* printable that you can use to help record your measurements as you take them.
  • And in case you’re new to Patterns for Pirates and PDF patterns in general, we have a great blog full of new-user tips HERE to help you get started!
  • As with all of our current releases and updates, the pdfs now include our layers feature and can be found in Letter, A4, A0 and projector sizes.
Consider yourself to be a visual learner and need a little extra hand-holding before you sew?  We’ve got you!  Take a peek at this video, where we walk you through the entire sewing process of the Valley Swing Dress!

Okay….let’s check out some of the different features, modeled by our incredible testers:

TOP + TUNIC + DRESS HEM LENGTHS

TANK + SHORT + 3/4 + LONG SLEEVE LENGTHS

COLORBLOCK + PLAIN OPTIONS

We are looking forward to see what you make with the new Valley Swing Dress patterns!  Head on over to the shop and grab yourself a copy and get to sewing!  They are available on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, July 17th, 2022.

Valley Swing Dress | Valley Swing Dress – Youth | Valley Swing Dress – Bundle

Hoping for a little inspiration before diving into some swing dress sewing?  Journey over to our Facebook group where you can see tester albums full of amazing images!

Valley Swing Adult Album | Valley Swing Youth Album

New Pattern Release :: 24/7 Tank (Youth and Adult Sizes!)

While this pattern was in it’s pre-testing phase and we were trying to come up with a name for it, our incredible testers dubbed it the “24/7 Tank”, since they can see themselves wearing it all day, all night, on repeat.  And when your testers give you a brilliant idea, you go with it.  So we did!

Let’s talk all about the 24/7 Tank and introduce y’all to the latest and greatest pattern to hit the P4P lineup!

The 24/7 Tank is the perfected fitted tank.  It’s great for summer on it’s own and also works during cooler months for layering with it’s fitted silhouette.  Take your choice of two different binding options, with both a thick and a thin binding for two different looks.  With so many options you can use the same pattern over and over, for styles that change as quickly as the weather does!
By simply choosing a different fabric, you can create a totally different look for your 24/7 Tank.
  • Pick up an athletic knit and use that shelf bra, add in clear elastic into the thin binding and you have the perfect long line sports bra.
  • Switch out the athletic knit for swim knit and use swim elastic and you’ve got yourself an adorable tankini swim top!
  • Make it comfortable in a soft modal fabric and make the shelf bra in just something soft with no powermesh or cups and you have the perfect sleep tank.
  • Leave the shelf bra out completely and use an everyday knit… you have the perfect tank for summer or for layering under in cooler months.
Choose from these options: high back neckline, low back neckline, racerback neckline, thin binding (can add elastic for sports bra or swimsuit), thick binding, crop length, shirt length and shelf bra (sizes 2-14 in youth, and all sizes in the adult-hourglass pattern).
Worried about sewing up the binding on the 24.7 Tank?  DON’T BE!  We have helpful videos linked for that single step in the tutorial!
The 24/7 is drafted for a high stretch knit fabric.
Some of our favorites are: athletic knit, swim knit, ribbed knits, double brushed poly, yummy rib knit, rayon/modal/bamboo knit, ITY/DTY knit, etc.

The youth sizes range from 3m – 14 and the adult sizes are for the full, newer size chart, extending from XXS – Plus 5X for the Adult Hourglass Figure.

*Want to learn more about how to measure yourself for these pattern?  We’ve got you covered with an in-depth blog HERE.  And for even more helpful fun, we have a free* printable that you can use to help record your measurements as you take them.

And in case you’re new to Patterns for Pirates and PDF patterns in general, we have a great blog full of new-user tips HERE to help you get started!

As with all of our current releases and updates, the pdfs now include our layers feature and can be found in Letter, A4, A0 and projector sizes.

Okay….let’s check out some of the different features!

FRONT NECKLINES :: LOW / HIGH (adult only)LENGTHS :: CROP / TOP (adult only) / SHIRT

BACK VIEWS :: HIGH / LOW / RACERBACK

BINDING STYLES :: THICK / THIN (optional- add elastic for sports bra or swimsuit)

OPTIONAL BUILT-IN SHELF BRA

We are super excited to see all of the new 24/7 Tanks that you’re about to make!  Head on over to the shop and grab yourself a copy of these new patterns!  They are available on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, June 27th, 2022.

24/7 Tank | 24/7 Tank – Youth | 24/7 Tank – Bundle

Hoping for a little inspiration before diving into some delightful tank top sewing?  Head over to our Facebook group where you can see tester albums full of amazing images!

24/7 Tank Youth Album | 24/7 Tank Adult Album

New Release :: Weston Raglan

Are you like me and you LOVE a good raglan pattern?  Hands down, it’s one of my favorite things to sew.  They’re fast, provide for fun pattern and color mixing options without any effort, and they make such a great casual tee.

The P4P pattern lineup has been needing a V-Figure raglan for quite some time now and the wait is finally over!  Meet the Weston Raglan!

The Weston Raglan is drafted for our Adult V-Figure size chart!

What’s the Adult V Figure size chart? It’s based upon the ASTM Men’s Standard Body Measurements. V Figures typically are taller, have a broader shoulder, larger bicep, straighter waist-to-hip ratio, etc. Who typically fits this chart?  Male / male presenting / non-binary / whoever feels better suited for this size chart (verses our Adult Hourglass Figure chart).  If you want to wear it, we want you to sew it with one of our patterns!

The Weston Raglan goes along with the newer, extended sizing that we brought out with our V-Figure chart as well!  If you haven’t measured yourself in a while, you might want to check yourself against the chart below.  

Need help with how to measure?  We’ve got you covered!  Check out our “how to measure yourself” in-depth blog HERE.  For some extra helpful fun, we have a free* printable that you can use to help record your measurements as you take them. And in case you’re new to Patterns for Pirates and PDF patterns in general, we have a great blog full of new-user tips HERE to help you get started! As with all of our current releases and updates, the pdfs now include our layers feature and can be found in Letter, A4, A0 and projector sizes.

The Weston Raglan is a traditional, raglan t-shirt with ease throughout the bodice and sleeves.  There are multiple sleeve lengths included (short, 3/4, long sleeve hemmed, and long sleeve cuffed) and is a beginner friendly sew.  

Sizes include: XXS – 6XL for the Adult V-Figure.  Our V-Figure patterns have multiple lengths, based upon height.  

  • Short is drafted for 5’6″
  • Average is drafted for 5’10”
  • Tall is drafted for 6’2″

Not only is there a bodice cut line for each height, but we’ve included separate sleeve lengths to accommodate for them as well.

Looking for fabric recommendations? The Weston Raglan is drafted for t-shirt knits like tri-blend jerseys, ribbed knits, spun poly jersey, modal/rayon/bamboo knit, double brushed poly, lightweight cotton spandex, sweater knit, waffle knit, and the like.

***Want to use something thicker (think custom cotton spandex or french terry), you’ll need to size up to keep the same look and feel.

One of my favorite design features of the Weston Raglan is the hem on the front bodice.  Instead of leaving it a straight hem, we graded a curved hemline starting at the 6XL size and down, to help accommodate for chests and bellies.  As wild as it sounds, adding a curve to the front actually straightens out the hem when being worn!

If you look at the pattern pieces and wonder exactly what that design element was for, here’s an amazing example!

Big thanks to Chandy Mueller and all of her help during pre-testing of the Weston pattern.  That’s her model above!

Let’s take a look at some of our stellar sewists and models, in the new Weston Raglan pattern!  

 
The back angle of the sleeve is one of my favorite features!  
 
 
Hoping for some additional inspiration and want to see more photos of all of our testers?  Head to the album on Facebook to check them all out!
 
 
The Weston Raglan is on release sale from now until 11:59PM CST June 7th, 2022.  Don’t forget to grab a copy for yourself!
 
 
As we’d mentioned earlier, the Weston Raglan is the newest addition to the family of raglan patterns here at P4P.  Don’t sleep on the other patterns in our lineup! If you add 3 raglans to your cart you will get an automatic discount too, so make your own raglan bundle perfect for you!
 
 
We have a ton of resources for sewing up raglan style tees, already on this blog!  Here are some great reading resources:
 

New Pattern Releases :: Vixen Bralette and Vixen Bikini & Thong

Get ready to sew up something to make you feel comfortable and cute at the same time! This double release with the Vixen Bralette and the Vixen Bikini & Thong make the perfect set for underwear and bralette or swimsuit! The options seem endless and they’re quick and fun to sew up too.

If you’re nervous to jump into undergarments or swim, both these tutorials are packed full with links to helpful blog posts and videos along the way! So whether you’re ready to lounge in a perfect cotton spandex set or ready to rock your set at the pool, the two new Vixen patterns are perfect for you!

The Vixen Bralette comes with both cross back (my personal favorite) and straight straps.  This cross back has the crossing section a bit lower than most, taking the strain off the neck and onto the stronger part of your upper back… can we say YESSSS comfort!! Still worried you wont like those cross straps? (Whispers…try it…) You can opt for the straight straps.  All options are fully lined with 1/4″ elastic in the seams giving natural support for the bust without that uncomfortable underwire. You can also choose to innerline the front pieces with powermesh or cups to add even more support.  Make a perfect fitting bralette or a bikini top with just different fabric choice.

The Vixen Bikini & Thong can give you a partially lined or fully lined bottom to match too.   Use a cotton spandex for undies or swim knit for a bikini bottom. The open sides give the illusion of legs for days for a flattering fit.The front still has you covered nicely and the back is a perfect cheeky look with just a little cheek sneaking out.

Both come with a few band options that are so much fun! You can finish with an exposed elastic for a sporty look, stretch lace trim for a beautiful look, short knit band for a gorgeous inside and out, or a tall knit band for more coverage.  If you use a knit band (and fully lined bottoms) you can create a FULLY REVERSIBLE item! How fun is that?  The knit band is the most challenging option though, so if you’re not an intermediate sewist with undergarments and swimsuits…try one of the other first 🙂

Sizes include: XXS – Plus 5X for the Adult Hourglass Figure. 

But wait!  I also include a Small Bust and a Full Bust Adjusted pieces for the Vixen Bralette… what does that mean exactly? If your upper and full bust are one size away from each other, I’ve already done the bust adjustment for you.  PARTY TIME!

That means less time adjusting and more sewing time!

Both Vixen patterns are a tight fit that need high stretch knits with good recovery.  Not a lot of options for fabric choice on these one, a cotton spandex makes a perfect lounge set and swim knits make a gorgeous swimsuit option.  Other than that there aren’t many high stretch knits that are breathable with good recovery for undies… some rib knits might work.  You could use an athletic knit for a light support athletic/yoga bra top too.

*Want to learn more about how to measure yourself for these pattern?  We’ve got you covered with an in-depth blog HERE.  And for even more helpful fun, we have a free* printable that you can use to help record your measurements as you take them. And in case you’re new to Patterns for Pirates and PDF patterns in general, we have a great blog full of new-user tips HERE to help you get started! As with all of our current releases and updates, the pdfs now include our layers feature and can be found in Letter, A4, A0 and projector sizes.

Let’s take a look at the different ways we can sew up these patterns!

VIXEN BRALETTE OPTIONS:
 
BACK OPTIONS :: 
 
UNDER BUST FINISHES ::
 
CUSTOMIZED SUPPORT LEVEL ::
 
VIXEN BIKINI & THONG:
BOOTY OPTIONS ::
WAISTBAND FINISHES ::
RISE OPTIONS ::
FABRIC CHOICES ::
FULLY LINED, KNIT BAND OPTION GIVES A FULLY REVERSIBLE FINISH ::

I’ve sewn up a huge stack of Vixen sets and I can’t wait to see you enjoy these patterns too!  Head on over to the shop and grab yourself a copy of these new patterns!  They are available on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, May 18, 2022. 

Want to get both new patterns or pick a different swim top/bottom to go with your new Vixen?

Use code: swimbundle for any bikini top or bottom in the shop to get special bundle discount during the release sale!

Warning though, if you make a new Vixen Bralette to match your most favorite pair of Cutie Booty Boxer Breifs… you’ll suddenly notice how faded those favorites are!!!

Vixen Bralette | Vixen Bikini & Thong

P4P Swim Collection

 

Hoping for a little inspiration?  Head over to our Facebook group where you can see tester albums full of amazing images!

Vixen Bralette Album | Vixen Bikini & Thong Album

 

Sugar Maple Skirt :: Easy Hacks

Have you heard the news?  P4P just dropped our latest pattern and it’s the swishiest, twirliest thing we’ve put out in a while!

The Sugar Maple Skirt is an a-line skirt with a full circle drop yoke.  It is designed to be worn at the natural waist and comes in four lengths: mini, knee, tea and maxi.  The top yoke has a flattering, body skimming silhouette, while the fuller part of the skirt joins just below the booty.

Whichever length you choose, each provides for ALL the swishy, twirly goodness that you could hope for in a skirt. The Sugar Maple is a great basic skirt pattern to have, an excellent sewing project for beginners, and it comes together so quickly that you’ll end up making multiple before you even know what happened!

Before you do anything else, go read all about the newest pattern: the Sugar Maple Skirt!  It’s available in Adult – Hourglass and Youth sizes and is just the sweetest.

But guess what we went and did?  We made it even sweeter by giving you some super easy, super fun pattern hacks to take the pattern a little further!

Dress Hack

The best way to get a little bit of twirl into your life is with the new Sugar Maple Skirt, I think we can all agree on that! If you love the twirly, whirly skirt but like the ease of a dress then this hack is for you. My daughter is now 8 and insists on picking her own outfits, but some of her choices can be pretty adventurous and she loves a colour clash. For me, a dress is the easiest option every time. I matched the Sugar Maple Skirt with the bodice of the Rainbow Dress Youth

They meshed together perfectly!

All I had to do was cut out the bodice of the Rainbow Dress and Sugar Maple Skirt as normal and just omit the waistband for the skirt.  I sewed them each up individually as per their instructions and then laid them down next to each other to check they would fit together nicely at the waist.

I had to shave a smidge off the side seams at the waist of the bodice to get a perfect fit, but it was only 1/4″ either side.  Then quarter your bodice and skirt pieces at the waist, using clips or pins.

Flip the skirt up and over the bodice so they are right sides together, and clip them together.

Finally, just sew the skirt to the bodice and you’re done.  It’s as easy as that!

Twirl away to your heart’s content.  I hope you love your new dress as much as we do. Happy Sewing! Dana xx

Skort Hack

As soon as the testers started talking about their plans for the Sugar Maple Skirt, many of them decided that it’d be the perfect skirt to turn into a skort — and we have the perfect pattern to help create that with the Peg Leg Leggings!  Many thanks to Kalene Bartlett, our tester extraordinare, who photographed her steps of making the ::perfect:: skort! My sisters-in-law are big runners and I think they’d adore a running skirt like this!  But I’ve also heard that plenty of mommas would love to have some added coverage for chasing littles around during the warmer months….not to mention it’s a perfect solution for fighting off that dreaded thigh chafing experience while rocking skirts. Because the Sugar Maple Skirt is meant to sit at the high waist, you’ll want to cut the Peg Legs pattern at the high-waisted cut line. You’ll need:

  • Peg Legs Leggings, in shortie / biker length…depending on the length of your skirt (assembled per the pattern instructions)
  • Sugar Maple Waistband
  • Sugar Maple Skirt top + drop yokes (assembled per the pattern instructions)

Mark the quarter points on both the Peg Legs and Sugar Maple skirt.  Slide the Peg Legs inside of the skirt, right side of the Pegs facing the wrong side of the Sugar Maple.  Pin/clip in place.

Find the quarter points of the waistband, and slide over the Sugar Maple / Peg Legs pieces…matching previously marked quarter points.

Sew all 3 pieces together, stretching the waistband and Peg Legs slightly to match — careful not to stretch the skirt opening.

Flip waistband up.  Hem skirt and shorts.

You’re finished!  Now go be like Kalene and be cut, comfortable AND covered in your new Peg Legs / Sugar Maple Skort!

I am beyond excited to see the Sugar Maple Skirts that you make!  Head on over to the shop and grab yourself a copy of these new patterns!  They are available on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, April 17, 2022.

Sugar Maple Skirt – Adult | Sugar Maple Skirt – Youth | Sugar Maple Skirt BUNDLE

Hoping for a little inspiration before diving into some Sugar Maple sewing?  Head over to our Facebook group where you can see tester albums full of amazing images!

Sugar Maple Skirt: Adult Album | Sugar Maple Skirt: Youth Album

New Pattern Release :: Sugar Maple Skirt

Happy Spring, Pirate Friends!  I have a confession to make: I love wearing skirts.  Love them!  If you see me during the warmer months, I’m rocking a skirt all the time.  It’s such an easy way to look like you’re put together, and they actually help keep you cooler than a pair of shorts.  Plus if the skirt has a twirl or swish factor to it, it’s just bonus!

I am so beyond excited to share with you my first ::official:: pattern launch with P4P!  Thank you all so much for being part of my journey in the sewing world, it’s like a dream come true to be here today sharing with you my pattern: the Sugar Maple Skirt! 

I (Katy) have been living in West Virginia since I moved here for college, and to infuse my love for the Mountain State into things I produce, the names will all be WV inspired.  The Sugar Maple is our state tree — thus it’s now the name of our ::new:: set of patterns!

The Sugar Maple Skirt is an a-line skirt with a full circle drop yoke.  It is designed to be worn at the natural waist and comes in four lengths: mini, knee, tea and maxi.  The top yoke has a flattering, body skimming silhouette, while the fuller part of the skirt joins just below the booty.  Whichever length you choose, each provides for ALL the swishy, twirly goodness that you could hope for in a skirt.

The Sugar Maple is a great basic skirt pattern to have, an excellent sewing project for beginners, and it comes together so quickly that you’ll end up making multiple before you even know what happened!  You can use this pattern to create something casual, flirty, conservative, dressy, and everything in between.  The simple construction of the knit yoga style waistband is geared for comfort in wearing and the different lengths provide opportunity for any style you’re after.

The Sugar Maple Skirt is drafted for knit fabrics with at least 30% stretch.  Practically any light-to-medium weight knits will work.  Think: jersey knits, rayon/spandex blends, scuba, liverpool, dbp, “yummy” ribbed knits, etc.  The waistband will need at least a 50% stretch horizontally, and requires good recovery.  Look for a spandex/lycra content of 5% or more for your waistband.  The higher the spandex content, harder your waistband will work to keep your skirt in place.

The youth sizes range from 3m – 14 and the adult sizes are for the full, newer size chart, extending from XXS – Plus 5X for the Adult Hourglass Figure.

*Want to learn more about how to measure yourself for these pattern?  We’ve got you covered with an in-depth blog HERE.  And for even more helpful fun, we have a free* printable that you can use to help record your measurements as you take them.

And in case you’re new to Patterns for Pirates and PDF patterns in general, we have a great blog full of new-user tips HERE to help you get started!

As with all of our current releases and updates, the pdfs now include our layers feature and can be found in Letter, A4, A0 and projector sizes.  

Worried about sewing up the Sugar Maple Skirt?  Don’t be! We have a video that walks you through the entire construction process:

Let’s take a look at the different ways we can sew up these patterns!

SUGAR MAPLE SKIRT OPTIONS:
 
MINI LENGTH
KNEE LENGTH
TEA LENGTH
MAXI LENGTH
 

I am beyond excited to see the Sugar Maple Skirts that you make!  Head on over to the shop and grab yourself a copy of these new patterns!  They are available on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, April 17, 2022.

Sugar Maple Skirt – Adult | Sugar Maple Skirt – Youth | Sugar Maple Skirt BUNDLE

Hoping for a little inspiration before diving into some Sugar Maple sewing?  Head over to our Facebook group where you can see tester albums full of amazing images!

Sugar Maple Skirt: Adult Album | Sugar Maple Skirt: Youth Album

We also provided for a couple extra ways to extend this pattern with our Sugar Maple Skirt – Easy Hacks.  Go take a look!

New Pattern Release :: Grace Dress

I  have  been  longing  for  spring  weather…and  with  that  day  dreaming  of  warmer  weather  came  the  vision  of  the  Grace  Dress…but  it  is  still  flipping  back  and  forth  WILDLY  from  cold  to  warm  here,  so  I made  sure  to  have  some  cooler  weather  options  too…

The Grace Dress is a perfect woven dress that can take you year round and give you enough styles to create some amazingly wardrobe staples.  With all the different sleeves,  length options, and the comfortable and flattering silhouette you will be fun, flirty, and romantic with this gorgeous flowy style.

The Grace Dress is a great basic woven dress.  You can use this pattern to build perfect classic dresses with that will take you to any occasion.  Drafted for a non-stretch, woven apparel fabric with good drape means you will be able to swish and swoosh your skirts around feeling extra glamourous. The different length and sleeve options mean you can use this pattern to create a wide variety of finished dresses that work for any season.

The above knee length is a fun length for warmer months, but if you prefer a little more coverage on your legs add the ruffle option to go to knee length.  The midi length is a very on trend length going to mid calf and looking very polished.  And the maxi length is a gorgeous vacation look with the ruffle along the bottom that will have you feeling like a million bucks!

The sleeves are all a romantic silhouette with flutter sleeves both short sleeved and a half sleeve length for those who want that flutter look, but want more arm coverage.  3/4 and long sleeves are perfect for cooler weather and are a phenomenal bishop with all that lush fullness around the the bottom of the sleeve. The v neckline is a perfect open neckline that is super flattering, but high enough that it can be worn to all events.

If these weren’t enough options, you can also choose to make the bodice a button up bodice (hello nursing friendly) or the entire dress button up… which is worth the extra time and effort of adding because it is absolutely adorable! Worried about sewing up the Grace? DON’T! We have helpful blog posts and videos linked on almost every single step in the tutorial! Here are just some of the videos in the tutorial in the Grace Dress Youtube Playlist.

The options for the Grace Dress include:

  • Short Flutter Sleeve, Half Flutter Sleeve, 3/4 Bishop Sleeve, Long Bishop Sleeve
  • Knee/Above Knee, Knee with Ruffle, Midi, and Maxi with Ruffle
  • Plain Bodice, Button Up Bodice Only, Button Up Dress
  • Youth also includes a button on back bodice for plain option for getting over baby/toddler noggins easily

The youth sizes range from 3m – 14 and the adult sizes are for the full, newer size chart, extending from XXS – Plus 5X for the Adult Hourglass Figure. *Want to learn more about how to measure yourself for these pattern?  We’ve got you covered with an in-depth blog HERE.

And in case you’re new to Patterns for Pirates and PDF patterns in general, we have a great blog full of new-user tips HERE to help you get started!  As with all of our current releases and updates, the pdfs now include our layers feature and can be found in Letter, A4, A0 and projector sizes.  And for even more helpful fun, we have a free* printable that you can use to help record your measurements as you take them.

Let’s take a look at the different ways we can sew up these patterns!

GRACE DRESS OPTIONS
 
SLEEVE OPTIONS ::  SHORT FLUTTER, HALF FLUTTER
 
SLEEVE OPTIONS ::  3/4 BISHOP, LONG BISHOP
 
 
 
SKIRT LENGTHS ::  KNEE/ABOVE KNEE ADULT, KNEE WITH RUFFLE, MIDI, AND MAXI WITH RUFFLE
 
BUTTON UP OPTIONS ::  PLAIN BODICE, BUTTON UP BODICE ONLY, BUTTON UP DRESS

 
 
FABRIC INSPIRATIONS ::
 

I can’t wait to see everyone feeling fabulous in their new Grace Dresses!  Head on over and grab yourself a copy of the new patterns!  They are available on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, Saturday March 30, 2022.

Grace Dress- YOUTH

Grace Dress- ADULT

Grace Dress BUNDLE

Head over to our Facebook group where you can see tester albums full of amazing images!

 Grace Dress – Youth Album

Grace Dress-Adult Album

We also have a few hacks to show off as well here:

Grace Dress- Hack Blog Post

Newest Patterns