Patterns for Pirates

P4P stylish, modern, wearable patterns

New Pattern Release :: Janet Jeans

Have you ever dreamed of making yourself the perfect pair of jeans? If so, we’ve got two words for you: Janet. Jeans.

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.
  • We’ve also got an excellent planning tool for you with our Coloring Pages. It’s a resource that is updated with every new pattern addition, this pattern included!

The Janet Jeans are both on trend and a classic vintage vibe all in one. A nod to Janet from Three’s Company and general 70’s aesthetic, the Janet Jeans have a snug fit from natural waist through booty then start flaring out down to the ankle giving an overall A-line silhouette. Waistband is meant to hit at natural waist, just covering up belly button. You can choose from a cuffed shorts length, capri, cropped or pant length. The back darts help make fitting from full hip to waist a little easier. The slight stretch in fabric not only makes them more comfortable, but also gives a bit more room for fitting and fluctuating sizes as well…so you can wear your memade jeans throughout the month as your body might go up and down the measuring tape a bit. The waistband is a contoured fit to make sure you don’t have gapping at the back waist, but not so snug that you’re being squeezed.

The Janet Jeans can be sewn up in most stretch wovens. You will only be limited by what you like the feel of and if it is thick enough to be comfortable with it covering your booty. With all the pocket choices you won’t have to leave behind any keys, phone, wallet, snacks, or other treasures you’d like to take with you.

Pattern options for the Janet Jeans include:

  • Lengths: Shorts / Capri Length / Cropped Length / Pant Length
  • Belt Loops
  • Optional Pockets: Front Slat Pockets -Optional Coin Pocket / Back Pockets / Front Small Patch Pockets / Front Patch Pockets
  • All Options include a Zip Fly, Back Darts, Contoured Waistband

The Janet Jeans pattern is drafted for stretch woven fabrics with at least 10% stretch.

Specific Fabric Suggestions: Stretch Denim, Stretch Twill, Stretch Linen, Stretch Corduroy, Stretch Suiting, etc

We’ve loaded in ::several:: videos, walking you through various steps of the Janet Jeans patterns! In case you needed a little hand holding with some of the construction, we’ve already got you covered! The links are all available in the pattern tutorials, or you can find them on our YouTube channel.

Let’s take a quick peek at all of the pattern options:

LENGTHS: SHORTS / CAPRI / CROPPED (Adult) / PANT

POCKETS: FRONT SLAT / FRONT SMALL PATCH / FRONT PATCH POCKETS / BACK POCKETS

So grab your stretch corduroy, stretch denim, stretch twill, stretch suiting and show off your new Janet Jeans!

 

So We are so excited to see what you sew up for yourself using the Janet Jeans patterns! It is available on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, February 18, 2024.

Find your copy of the Janet Jeans here: Janet Jeans | Janet Jeans – Youth | Janet Jeans Bundle

As always, we’ve got more photos for you to use as inspiration! Head over to the Facebook group to browse our albums full of gorgeous photos, compliments of our tester team!

Janet Jeans Adult Album | Janet Jeans Youth Album

But wait, there’s more! We have an Easy Hacks blog post for the Janet Jeans pattern — helping you take that pattern a little further!

New Pattern Release :: Harriet Holiday Dress

Happy 2024, Pirates! We are excited to share that our first pattern of the new year is officially here!

We aren’t going to keep you in suspense for a single moment — let’s get to talking all about the Harriet Holiday Dress!

The Harriet Holiday Dress pattern is drafted to our Adult – Hourglass size chart, extending from XXS – Plus 5X.

  • *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.
  • We’ve also got an excellent planning tool for you with our Coloring Pages. It’s a resource that is updated with every new pattern addition, this pattern included!
  • And to help keep track of the Patterns for Pirates patterns you have in your stash, we’ve got a handy Pattern Checklist to help keep you organized!

The Harriet Holiday Dress features a fitted bodice with a quarter circle skirt attached at the natural waistline. The bodice is fully lined, with a sweetheart or scoop neckline option. The pattern includes multiple skirt lengths (from mini to maxi) and allows you to choose from traditional, fitted sleeves or a more festive, bishop sleeve. Depending on your fabric choice, you can use the Harriet Holiday Dress for everyday wear, a special occasion, or something in between. We also snuck in an optional front slit for the above knee, tea and maxi length skirts, in the event you wanted to show a little extra thigh in your new dress!

Pattern options include:

  • Two neckline options: Scoop + Sweetheart.
  • A variety of sleeve choices: Fitted Short, Fitted 3/4, Fitted Long, 3/4 Bishop Sleeve + Long Bishop Sleeve.
  • Multiple hem lengths: Mini, Above Knee, Tea + Maxi.
  • Fully lined bodice.
  • Optional front slit (for above knee, tea + maxi lengths).

The Harriet Holiday Dress pattern is drafted for light-to-medium weight knit fabrics with at least 40-50% horizontal stretch. Some vertical stretch for the bodice is recommended for more comfort in wearing.

Specific Fabric Suggestions: Cotton Spandex, Double Brushed Polyester, Ribbed Knits, Medium Sweater Knits, Stretch Velvet, Athletic Knits, etc.

We wouldn’t leave you hanging without talking about some of the options! Let’s check them out!

NECKLINES: SCOOP / SWEETHEART

SLEEVES (FITTED SHORT / 3/4 / LONG + BISHOP 3/4 + LONG)

HEM LENGTHS (MINI / ABOVE KNEE / TEA / MAXI)

OPTIONAL FRONT SLIT

We cannot wait to see what you create for yourself using the Harriet Holiday Dress pattern! It is available on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, January 28, 2023.

Here is a direct link to the pattern: HARRIET HOLIDAY DRESS

As always, we’ve got more photos for you to use as inspiration! Head over to the Facebook group to browse our albums full of gorgeous photos, compliments of our tester team!

Harriet Holiday Dress Facebook Album

But wait, there’s more! We have an Easy Hacks blog post for the Harriet Holiday Dress pattern — helping you take that pattern a little further!

Sophia Pencil Skirt :: Easy Hacks

Get ready to elevate your sewing game with our “easy hacks” post for the Sophia Pencil Skirt pattern. We’re sharing three ingenious ways to take this pattern a little further!

You’ll this pattern to complete these super fun sewing hacks: SOPHIA PENCIL SKIRT

Side Zipper Hack

Here is a super simple way to move the zipper from the back of the Sophia Pencil skirt to the side! Cut your fabric according to the instructions. Note that the zipper in the purple illustration below is the original pattern placement.

Next, transfer the zipper markings to the Front skirt and Left back skirt, using the original pattern pieces. I installed the zipper on the same side as my slit.

Re-arrange your pattern pieces, to match the below illustration with the pieces needing zippers on the outside. I color coded which seams need to be sewn together with dashed lines in the illustration below. Match the colored seams, right sides together, and sew. You’ll want to do this construction with the right side of your main fabric facing up and repeat with your lining but with the right side facing down.

 

Continue the construction of the skirt as listed in the tutorial! Easy, peasy!

Happy Sewing!

Djem

Button Front Hack

We are all loving our new Sophia Pencil Skirts, but if you love the look but want to make it without the zipper, then we have a simple hack to add a button front instead.  Not only does it look great but it means you haven’t got to install the zipper – win win!

For this hack we are using the skirt without the separate waistband. We will start by adding 2” extra width to the centre of the front main piece, and then cutting 2 x mirrored front skirts, rather than cutting on the fold.  This extra 2” will give us a ½” extra on each skirt piece for a 1” overlap, and a button placket.

Front skirt piece with 2 inch extra width added to fold line

 

For the lining we will add an additional ½” to the centre front of the lining piece.

With your main fabric, construct your darts and side seams as per the tutorial and then also sew the centre back seam too.  Repeat for your lining.

Right sides together, sew the main to the lining along the top, matching up your seams and darts.  Your lining will be shorter than your main at either end.

 

Flip the lining round to the inside.  Press the seam allowance towards the lining.  It is a good idea to understitch the skirt lining to the seam allowance to help stop it creeping out to the outside.  Give this top seam a good press with steam to help it lay flat.

 

We will be finishing the hems separately, so turn the lining hem to the wrong side by a ¼”, and then again by another ¼” . Press, then stitch hem with an edgestitch.

Moving back to the centre front seam, turn the front edge to the wrong side by ½” and press.  Then turn to the wrong side again by 1” and press.  This forms the button placket.  Your lining should fit nicely inside the placket, concealing the raw edge.  Stitch with an edgestitch – take your time to get a good straight stitch here as it will be visible at the front of your garment.  Repeat with the other front edge.

 

Turn the bottom hem up by ½” and hem.  Alternatively, you could hem by turning ¼” twice, again.

Sew on your button holes and buttons.  I like to place them fairly close together to prevent gaping.

You’re done! A nice and simple sew and a total wardrobe classic.

Happy sewing!

 

Dana xx

Belt Hack

I’ll admit, I got totally Pinspired with this one after seeing a really cute belted pencil skirt online, and had to further hack my button front skirt.  I knew it would be an easy hack on the new Sophia, so I got to it!

I wanted a fairly wide belt and decided on a finished width of 2.5”.  With an added ½” seam allowance that gave me a measurement of 3.5” for the belt width.  Then for the length I took a piece of ribbon and tied it round my waist with a decent sized bow.  This was 84” long ( I wear the plus 1X with a waist measurement of 42”, for reference).  This was too long for my fabric so I split it in two and added seam allowance.  My final measurements for the ties were 3.5” x 43”; cut 4.

You will have 4 tie pieces. Sew two of these tie pieces together along the short sides using a ½” seam allowance, repeat for the other two tie pieces.  Press the seam allowances open.  Place these two tie pieces right sides together and sew using a ½” seam allowance, making sure you leave a 2-3” gap in the centre of the tie for turning through.  I wanted a diagonal angle at the ends of my ties so I tapered in towards the ends of the ties to create this.

Trim corners and turn through.  Press well and top stitch around entire length of belt.

For the belt loops, I cut a strip of fabric measuring 1.5” wide by 20” long (ish).  Then I folded the fabric together right sides together along the long edge, and sewed it together with a ¼” seam allowance.  Turn the tube through ( a tube turner of safety pin is helpful for this), then press.  Edge stitch down both sides of the ties, then cut it into 5 pieces measuring 4” in length.  These will be your 5 belt loops.

 

One belt loop will be placed at the centre back, two loops will be placed next to both of the centre front darts, and then the last two loops will be evenly spaced on either side between the previous two points.

Place the loops at the top of the skirt, about ½” from the top edge.  Sew across the belt loops twice, once at the bottom and once just below the top.

Then fold the belt loop down towards the body of the skirt, tuck the raw edge under by ½” and top stitch down across the bottom.

Repeat for the other 4 belt loops.  Thread through your belt, tie and enjoy your new skirt!

Happy Sewing!

Dana xx

We are thrilled to see what you sew for yourself using the Bacall Bodysuit + Sophia Pencil Skirt patterns! They are available on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, December 12, 2023.

Here are some links to the patterns: BACALL BODYSUIT | SOPHIA PENCIL SKIRT

As always, we’ve got more photos for you to use as inspiration! Head over to the Facebook group to browse our albums full of gorgeous photos, compliments of our tester team!

Bacall Bodysuit Facebook Album | Sophia Pencil Skirt Facebook Album

New Pattern Release :: Bacall Bodysuit + Sophia Pencil Skirt

Happy Release Day, y’all! We are super duper excited for this particular release day because we’ve got TWO incredible patterns to share! Trust us when we say that they’re great staples and will be perfect if you’re looking for something to wear to all of the holiday parties that are coming up.

Let’s get to talking about the Sophia Pencil Skirt and Bacall Bodysuit!

Both patterns are drafted to our Adult – Hourglass size chart, extending from XXS – Plus 5X.

  • *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.
  • We’ve also got an excellent planning tool for you with our Coloring Pages. It’s a resource that is updated with every new pattern addition, this pattern included!

While the two patterns pair incredibly well together, they really (truly) stand up on their own. So let’s go ahead and talk about each one separately…starting with the Sophia Pencil Skirt!

The Sophia Pencil Skirt is a classic wardrobe staple. Named for the actress Sophia Loren, we hope you feel just as stunning as she always looks when wearing it. You can use any bottom-weight woven, non-stretch fabric for this timeless pattern.

The pattern is fitted tight at the natural waist and body skimming through high hip and hip in comes in slightly at thigh, but has room to comfortably walk if you decide to not make the slitted option. You can make anything from a business appropriate skirt to a fun party mini with this pattern! Choose from no slits for a simple version, add one front thigh slit for some fun or double slits for double the fun. All options are fully lined with a back center zipper. You can sew up a skirt with a plain, no waistband solid look or opt for the waistband to highlight the waist area.

Pattern options for the Sophia Pencil Skirt include:

  • Multiple Lengths: Micro Mini / Mini / Above Knee / Knee
  • Waistband / No Waistband
  • Plain Hem / Slit / Double Slit
  • Back Center Zipper
  • Fully Lined

The Sophia Pencil Skirt pattern is drafted for bottom-weight woven, non-stretch fabrics. Bottom-weight fabrics means medium to heavier weight fabrics that are more durable, meant to withstand sitting, bending, etc.

Specific Fabric Suggestions: Heavy Flannel, Suiting, Tweed, Denim, Suede, Corduroy.
Specialty Suggestions: Velvet, Sequin, Satin, Pleather, etc.

Let’s take a quick walk through the different options!

LENGTHS (MICRO MINI / MINI / ABOVE KNEE / KNEE) 

WAISTBAND / NO WAISTBAND

PLAIN HEM / SLIT / DOUBLE SLIT

The Bacall Bodysuit, named for the iconic Lauren Bacall is a classic look that will make you feel like a million bucks (who loves the movie How to Marry a Millionaire? 😉 ) .

This pattern features a tight fit throughout to create a perfect base layer for going under all your bottoms and top layering pieces too. It has a crew neckline with several options for finishing with lining, a neckband, mock turtleneck or classic turtleneck. The sleeve options are also somewhat endless with tank (lined or bands finish), fitted sleeves with several lengths and also a gathered sleeve with several lengths.

You can take this bodysuit from summer to winter very easily with options and fabric choice. You can also sew in a bra with the shelf bra option included in the fully lined option. The lining is drafted slightly snugger at the underbust and through the waist to help the shelf bra support bust. You can create a crop or bodysuit with a thong or brief bottom. All bodysuits are finished with a hook and eye closure towards the front of the body for easy on/off.

Pattern options for the Bacall Bodysuit include:

  • Sleeves: Tank Un-Lined / Tank- Lined / Fitted Short Sleeve / Fitted 3/4 Sleeve / Fitted Long Sleeve with Cuff / Fitted Long Sleeve Hemmed / Gathered Short Sleeve / Gathered Half Sleeve / Gathered Long Bishop Sleeve
  • Neckline Finishes: Lined / Crew Neckband / Mock Turtleneck / Turtleneck
  • Lengths: Crop / Thong Bodysuit / Brief Bodysuit
  • Fully Lined / Un-Lined
  • All Bodysuits Finish with Hook and Eye Closure

The Bacall Bodysuit pattern is drafted for high stretch knit fabrics that stretch both horizontally and vertically. Spandex blends are best, so they don’t stretch out and get loose throughout the day.

Specific Fabric Suggestions: Double Brushed Poly, Yarn Dyed Ribbed Knits, Yummy Rib Knit, Rayon Rib Knits, Modal/Bamboo/Rayon Spandex Jerseys, Cotton Spandex, Sweater Knits, etc.

Of course, let’s check a few of the options available in the pattern!

MULTIPLE SLEEVE OPTIONS (TANK, SHORT, 3/4, LONG…FITTED OR GATHERED!)

NECKLINES: LINED CREW / CREW / MOCK TURTLENECK / TURTLENECK

LENGTHS: CROP / THONG BODYSUIT / BREIF BODYSUIT

We are thrilled to see what you sew for yourself using the Bacall Bodysuit + Sophia Pencil Skirt patterns! They are available on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, December 12, 2023.

Here are some links to the patterns: BACALL BODYSUIT | SOPHIA PENCIL SKIRT

As always, we’ve got more photos for you to use as inspiration! Head over to the Facebook group to browse our albums full of gorgeous photos, compliments of our tester team!

Bacall Bodysuit Facebook Album | Sophia Pencil Skirt Facebook Album

But wait, there’s more! We have an Easy Hacks blog post for the Sophia Pencil Skirt pattern — helping you take that pattern a little further!

2023 Holiday Freebies :: Snowfall Shrug

Happy Holidays, Pirate Friends!  We are excitedly back for another year and another round of holiday freebies to share with you!  Since 2016, we’ve compiled different tutorials and patterns that we think would make *perfect* gifts for your friends and family. Curious about what we’ve already released in the way of holiday freebies? Head right here to see all of them: Holiday Freebies Roundup.

Today, we are bringing you the: Snowfall Shrug!

The Snowfall Shrug is unique in design, in that it is a ZERO WASTE design. What does that mean exactly? Zero waste sewing patterns use up every inch of the yardage without any waste / scraps that get tossed, meaning it’s a little more sustainable than a typical sewing endeavor.

The Snowfall Shrug is a classic shrug or bolero. It is a 3/4 “batwing” style sleeve and is a one-size pattern that falls across your shoulders. It’s a great addition when you need a little extra cozy coverage!

Fabric Requirements / Recommendations: 

  • 3/4 Yard knit fabric, 40-50% stretch minimum

Grab Your Pattern Pieces Here:

TUTORIAL:

Cut out all of your pieces. You’ll need:

– 1 Bodice Piece, cut on fold
– 2 Cuff Pieces (cut from main bodice piece)

This is a no-waste pattern, meaning we use up the entire length and width of the fabric.

1.) Lay the bodice piece, right sides up, with the cut-out corners at the top, furthest from you.

2.) With right sides together, fold one bottom corner up towards the top. Match along the raw edges of the cutout and the long top edge.

3.) Repeat on the opposite side. Sew along both top raw edges, using 1/2″ seam allowance.

4.) Using 1/2″ hem allowance, hem middle opening.

5.) Fold cuff piece left-to-right, with right sides together.

6.) Fold in half again, from top-to-bottom.

7.) You’ll now have two folded edges. Sew with 1/2″ seam allowance along raw side edge.

8.) Flip right sides out.

Repeat with other cuff.

9.) Baste at 1/8″ and 1/2″ to create gather stitches at sleeve opening.

10.) Gather sleeve opening to match size of cuff.

11.) Slide cuff over sleeve opening, matching along the raw edges. Sew using 1/2″ seam allowance.

12.) Flip cuff away from sleeve.

13.) Repeat steps 9-12 with opposite sleeve + cuff.

Your Snowfall Shrug is complete! Throw it on for some extra cozy warmth while you make a few more for gifts this holiday season!

In case you consider yourself a more “visual learner” here’s a video tutorial that walks you through the entire tutorial, start-to-finish.

Before you go, take a look at these fantastic Snowfall Shrugs from our tester team!

I la-la-love when you share your photos with me!  Head over to the Patterns for Pirates Facebook Group and show us what you’ve made!

Happy Holidays, Pirates!

2023 Holiday Freebies :: Mistletoe Earmuffs

Happy Holidays, Pirate Friends!  We are excitedly back for another year and another round of holiday freebies to share with you!  Since 2016, we’ve compiled different tutorials and patterns that we think would make *perfect* gifts for your friends and family. Curious about what we’ve already released in the way of holiday freebies? Head right here to see all of them: Holiday Freebies Roundup.

Today, we are bringing you the: Mistletoe Earmuffs!

Fabric Requirements / Supplies Needed: 

  • 1/4 Yard Fleece / Sherpa / Faux Fur fabric
  • Fiber Fill (or other preferred filling)
  • Headband (I used these and they worked great)

Grab Your Pattern Pieces Here:

TUTORIAL:

Cut out all of your pieces. You’ll need:

– 4 Earmuff pieces
– Fiber Fill
– Headband

Lay two earmuff pieces right sides together. Sew around outer edge, leaving 1-2″ opening for turning.

Turn right side out.

Stuff with filling. Make sure not to overstuff.

Repeat with second earmuff.

Tuck in seam allowance and place headband inside of earmuff, through opening. Pin/clip into place.

Repeat with other earmuff.

**I highly recommend trying them on and seeing if any adjustments need to be made to the placement of the earmuffs.

Carefully glue headband to inside of earmuff, on both sides of the band.

Pinch in place, waiting for glue to dry.

Repeat with second earmuff.

Using a needle + thread, hand stitch remainder of opening.

You’re finished! How cute are these?

In case you consider yourself a more “visual learner” here’s a video tutorial that walks you through the entire tutorial, start-to-finish.

Before you go, sneak a peek at the cute Mistletoe Earmuffs that our testers created for themselves!

I la-la-love when you share your photos with me!  Head over to the Patterns for Pirates Facebook Group and show us what you’ve made!

Happy Holidays, Pirates!

2023 Holiday Freebies :: Holiday Buttons

Happy Holidays, Pirate Friends!  We are excitedly back for another year and another round of holiday freebies to share with you!  Since 2016, we’ve compiled different tutorials and patterns that we think would make *perfect* gifts for your friends and family. Curious about what we’ve already released in the way of holiday freebies? Head right here to see all of them: Holiday Freebies Roundup.

Today, we are bringing you the: Holiday Buttons!

Do you remember playing with Shrinky Dink material when you were younger? You’d draw on plastic film, cut it out and then watch magic happen in the oven as it shrunk down. Well did you know that they make ::printable:: shrink plastic?

You can relive your childhood memories, make something cool, AND have it be sewing related. What beats that?

NOTE: I wouldn’t recommend using these for clothing that will be worn frequently. They aren’t as strong as the buttons that you buy! However, they would be cute for accents on stockings or garments. You can even make wine glass charms or pendants.

Material Requirements / Recommendations: Printable Shrink Film (Grafix is a great brand, but sometimes harder to come by) + Mod Podge Dimensional Magic

Grab Your Printable Button Download Here: Holiday Buttons graphics

TUTORIAL:

Layout button graphics in your design software of choice – Canva, Silhouette, Word, etc. Set the design transparency to 75%. Colors will become more vibrant when the buttons shrink.

Buttons will shrink to 20% of their original size – so determine how large you want your final button to be and calculate accordingly. My examples started at 1 1/2″.

Print each button slightly larger than your hole punch size, if not using scissors or a cutting machine. That will make it a bit easier to punch your buttons with edge-to-edge designs.

Use a smaller hole punch for your button holes. You can also make charms for a necklace or wineglasses – just punch one hole closer to the edge, rather than 2.

I used a 1 1/2″ hole punch and a 6mm hole punch.

Shrink according to package directions. TIP! Place a heavy book on top of your buttons immediately upon removing from the oven to help flatten them out.

Use Mod Podge Dimensional Magic to seal and glaze your buttons.

Use 2 toothpicks to hold your button and keep the holes free of Dimensional Magic.

Don’t over apply Dimensional Magic! It will flow into the holes and clog them as they dry.

Carefully remove from toothpicks and allow to dry for 24 hours.

Enjoy your festive buttons!

I la-la-love when you share your photos with me!  Head over to the Patterns for Pirates Facebook Group and show us what you’ve made!

Happy Holidays, Pirates!

2023 Holiday Freebies :: Cordial Can Coolers

Happy Holidays, Pirate Friends!  We are excitedly back for another year and another round of holiday freebies to share with you!  Since 2016, we’ve compiled different tutorials and patterns that we think would make *perfect* gifts for your friends and family. Curious about what we’ve already released in the way of holiday freebies? Head right here to see all of them: Holiday Freebies Roundup.

Today, we are bringing you the: Cordial Can Coolers!

Honestly, we are shocked we didn’t think of this pattern earlier! Can coolers are such a great gift because you can never have too many. And the customization and personalization possibilities are endless! They make great stocking stuffers, teacher gifts, presents, craft booth items…you name it!

Fabric Requirements / Recommendations: 

  • 1/3 Yard (each) Main and Lining in Quilting Cotton + Fusible Fleece (affiliate link) for standard can
  • 3/8 Yard (each) Main and Lining in Quilting Cotton + Fusible Fleece (affiliate link) for tall can

Grab Your Pattern Pieces Here:

TUTORIAL:

Cut out all of your pieces. You’ll need:

– 1 Cut on Fold Main
– 1 Cut on Fold Lining
– 1 Cut on Fold Fusible Fleece Interfacing (or other preferred interfacing)

1. Iron interfacing to wrong side of main fabric.

2. Align Main + Lining pieces with right sides together.

3. Using 1/4″ seam allowance, (important to follow this SA or it won’t fit your can!) stitch along the top, bottom and middle edges.

4. Carefully clip the corners, making sure to not cut through your stitches.

5. Use pinking shears to trim down the extra fabric along the curved edge, to help for a smoother curved edge.

6. From one of the side openings, turn the can cooler right sides out.

7. Press.

8. Fold in half, with right sides (main fabric) together. Sew along both outer edges using 1/4″ seam allowance.

9. Use pinking shears or serge along raw edges, to help reduce fraying.

10. Turn right sides out and press. You’re finished!

You can decorate it with HTV or embroidery. Or leave it as-is and make a million more!

In case you consider yourself a more “visual learner” here’s a video tutorial that walks you through the entire tutorial, start-to-finish.

Before you go, take a look at these awesome can coolers that our testers created!

I la-la-love when you share your photos with me!  Head over to the Patterns for Pirates Facebook Group and show us what you’ve made!

Happy Holidays, Pirates!

2023 Holiday Freebies :: Dino Nugget Plushies

Happy Holidays, Pirate Friends!  We are excitedly back for another year and another round of holiday freebies to share with you!  Since 2016, we’ve compiled different tutorials and patterns that we think would make *perfect* gifts for your friends and family. Curious about what we’ve already released in the way of holiday freebies? Head right here to see all of them: Holiday Freebies Roundup.

Today, we are bringing you the: Dino Nuggest Plushies!

I have this very strong feeling that we are going to be seeing a ton of these cuties sewn up for gifts this holiday season! Well…and beyond. Because Dino Nugget Plushies have no season to them — they’re just always incredibly adorable! This pattern includes all five of the classic dino chicken nugget shapes: Stegosaurus, Tyrannosaurus Rex, Brontosaurus, Pterodactyl, and Triceratops.

Make one, or make them all! They’re bound to be loved no matter what.

Fabric Requirements / Recommendations: Sherpa or Fleece fabric. Each dino takes 1/3 yard. If you’re making all shapes, you can get them all out of 1 1/4 yards.

Grab Your Pattern Pieces Here: Dino Nugget Plushies pattern pieces

TUTORIAL:

Cut out all of your pieces. You’ll need:

  • 2 Dino shapes, cut in mirror image
  • Fiber Fill (or other preferred filling)

With right sides together, sew around entire outer edge with 1/2″ seam allowance, making sure to leave a 3-4″ opening for turning.

Be sure to take the full seam allowance at all of the corners and curves.

Carefully clip into the corners, making sure not to cut through your stitches.

Using the opening we left in the previous step, turn the dino right sides out.

Stuff with filling. Make sure not to overstuff, and to get all of the legs and tails and parts filled with stuffing equally.

Pin/clip and hand stitch the opening shut, using your favorite method.

Your first dino nugget is complete! Call it a day and snuggle this one — or go make the other four for a complete set!

In case you consider yourself a more “visual learner” here’s a video tutorial that walks you through the entire tutorial, start-to-finish.

Before you go, take a look at these ADORABLE Dino Nugget Plushies that our amazing tester team created!

I la-la-love when you share your photos with me!  Head over to the Patterns for Pirates Facebook Group and show us what you’ve made!

Happy Holidays, Pirates!

Hale Half Zip – Easy Hacks

Get ready to elevate your sewing game with our “easy hacks” post for the Hale Half Zip pattern. We’re sharing three ingenious ways to take this pattern a little further! 

You’ll need one of these patterns to complete these brilliant sewing hacks:

Hale Half Zip – Adult Hourglass | Hale Half Zip – Adult V Figure | Hale Half Zip – Youth | Hale Half Zip – Bundle

NO ZIPPER HACK

Let’s be honest, not all of us like zippers.  When I teach sewing classes they are one of the things people are most fearful about sewing, so you’re not alone if you don’t like them.  Or, maybe you just don’t have any to hand and still want to sew up a Hale Half Zip for yourself?  Well, we’ve got you covered.

Now for this option you’re going to have to pick the hood, rather than the collar as the neckline finish, as the collar won’t work without a zip.  You could also draft a neckband to finish the neckline with instead of the hood, and I’ll cover that at the end, but for the main tutorial I will be using the hood.

First you will cut out all your pieces as normal, except the front yoke.  This is ‘cut x 2 mirrored’ in the tutorial, but we will be removing seam allowance and cutting on the fold.  To begin, we need to work out how much seam allowance to remove.  Now, the seam allowance used for attaching the zipper is 3/8″, like this.

However, don’t forget in the finished garment we have the width of a zipper to account for too, like this.

So, I will be taking off an extra 1/8″ to account for half the width of the zipper teeth.  That means our full seam allowance to remove will be 1/2″.  I simply mark it on the pattern piece and fold it over, that means you still have the full pattern piece to use again in the future if you wanted to.

Then cut your front yoke on the fold.

We assemble the garment now according to the tutorial instructions, but I like to leave the neckline to the end, so I did it in this order:

Front centre yoke to front sides

Front yoke to back yoke at shoulder seams.

Kanga pocket to front bottom.

Front yoke to front bottom.

Back yoke to back bottom.

Assemble sleeves. Attach to body of garment.

Side Seams.

Cuffs and waistband.

Then we start again with the neckline.  Sew the back curved seam of your main hood, right sides together.  Then repeat for your lining.

Sew the front chin curve for your main right sides together, then again for your lining.

Turn the lining right side out, and slip it inside your main.  These should now be right sides together.

Sew around the hood face opening to join the hoods together.  Clip your seam allowance if necessary, then turn right sides out and top stitch if you wish (it gives a great, professional finish and stops the hood slipping around).

Then quarter your neckline, and quarter your hood.  Turn the main garment inside out and drop the hood into the neckline right sides together, matching the quarter points.  The hood should fit nicely into the neckline.  Sew them together, and you’re done!

 

If you want to use a traditional neckband instead of the hood, then you can measure your neckline opening like this

Then calculate your neckband.  I used a ribbing and therefore used a calculation of 75%, but for a fabric with less stretch you could use 80 or 85%.

So, the neckline for my daughter’s age 10 measured 8.75″ across, x 2 for the full circumference is 17.5″.  Then multiply by 75% gives us 13″, plus 1/2″ seam allowance at either end gives us 14″.  I used a width of 2.5″ for a final neckband depth of 3/4″.  So my neckband is cut at 14 x 2.5″.

Sew the short ends together, press in half longways and then attach as you do the hood, by quartering both the neckband and the neckhole and sewing them together, matching the quarter points.

Give it a press, pop it on and show off to all your friends!

Happy sewing!

Dana xxx

 

CORDING

 

Adding some cording along the hood or along the top of the collar is simple and quick.

Mark where you would like your button hole or grommets.  Take into account the 1/2″ seam allowances and the zipper. I like to just press all my seamlines to easily see them.

Put little pieces of interfacing where the grommets or button holes will be.  You want the interfacing to be bigger than your grommet or button hole.

Put your buttonholes or grommets in on the main fabric piece only.

Sew up normally.  If you’re lining your hood or doing the collar option, you’ll need to sew a casing stitch.  Just a stitch that will hold your cording along the edge. It can be whatever width/seam allowance you like the look of as long as it’s wide enough to fit your cording and grommets/buttonholes inside.

Thread your cording through when finished.

 

Snap Placket Hack

If zippers intimidate you, consider a snap placket for your Hale Half Zip Pullover! It’s an easy hack that can be accomplished with the pattern pieces you already have.

Cut 2 zipper guards from your fabric – they are now opposite sides of your snap placket. I used a ripstop canvas for stability and looks. If you’re using a knit or any other woven, it is best to interface both pieces to ensure that your snaps are secure.

For this make, I chose to use the rounded end of one guard and the squared end of the other. Totally up to you what you choose!

Press both of your placket pieces with wrong sides together.

Open up and fold right sides together and stitch across one short end on both pieces.

Turn right sides out and topstitch along the folded edge, if you prefer.

I actually ripped out my topstitching after these pics because I didn’t like it!

Sew your collar pieces, right sides together, along the top edge of the collar.

Sew the collar main to the neckline of your bodice.

Line up one of your placket pieces with the raw edge of your bodice front and fold the collar lining over to sandwich the placket between the right sides of the collar main and collar lining.

Fold up the seam allowance of the collar lining.

Sew the length of the bodice front, securing the collar layers and placket.

Turn the collar right side out and topstitch the seam allowance down the front.

Secure the collar lining per pattern instructions.

Lay one side of the placket on top of the other – I stacked the right side on top of the left – and baste the bottom edge together.

At this point, you can decide to add your snaps or wait until the end of construction (like I did).

When marking for snaps, I like to line up the placket and push a pin through the layers. I use a fabric pen to mark the pin points on both sides of the placket.

Add your snaps and enjoy your new pullover!

Can’t wait to see what you make!

Rachel

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to create cozy, stylish half-zip sweaters and hoodies for yourself and your loved ones. The Hale Half Zip patterns are available and on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, Friday, October 6, 2023.

Hale Half Zip – Adult Hourglass | Hale Half Zip – Adult V Figure | Hale Half Zip – Youth | Hale Half Zip – Bundle

As always, we’ve got more photos for you to use as inspiration! Head over to the Facebook group to browse our albums full of gorgeous photos, compliments of our tester team!

Adult Hourglass Album | Adult V Figure Album | Youth Album

Stay warm, stay stylish, and stay comfortable all season long! We can’t wait to see what you create for yourself!

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