Patterns for Pirates

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New Pattern Release :: Friendly City Sweater

January 17, 2023

We are super excited to share that we are releasing our first pattern of the new year! Well — not just pattern (singular) but patterns…plural! The Friendly City Sweater + Friendly City Sweater – Youth are the newest designs to be added to the Patterns for Pirates catalogue and you’re going to want to hear all about it!

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 Friendly City Sweaters are open-sided tops with a relaxed and easy-to-wear silhouette. The pattern features a dramatic, curved hemline in three lengths, all of which are finished with curved bands that nest neatly into the side seams. Designed with cozy fabrics in mind, this pattern is a fun twist on a basic sweater.

You’ll want to grab a Friendly City Sweater out of your closet on those chilly days, when you need something to help keep you warm and cozy. We included only long sleeves in the pattern, with the option of a hemmed or cuffed sleeve, and both sleeve versions fitting loosely at wrist. While there are three different hem lengths to choose from, the nested bands all meet at the same spot at your natural waist before opening up to a flattering curved bodice bottom. The crew neckline sits at a just-right height, the scooped neckline (available only on the adult pattern) gives you a slightly more open option, and the fold-over turtleneck is designed for that perfect level of coverage without being restrictive, even in thicker fabrics.

Pattern options for the Friendly City Sweaters include:

  • Necklines: Crew Neckline / Scoop Neckline (adult only) / Fold-Over Turtleneck
  • Hemlines: Crop / Top / Tunic Lengths
  • Sleeves: Cuffed / Hemmed Long Sleeves

The Friendly City Sweater Pattern is drafted for light-to-medium weight knit fabrics. Due to the design with open sides and oversized fit…the more drape the fabric has, the better. Stiffer fabrics will most likely “tent” off of your body, whereas fabrics with a softer drape will provide for the intended silhouette.

Specific Fabric Suggestions: Brushed Ribbed Knits, Ribbed Knits, Modal Knit Blends, DBP (Double Brushed Polyester Knit), Sweater Knits, Spandex French Terry Blends, Waffle/ Brushed Waffle Knits, etc.



The nested bands are the biggest feature of the Friendly City Sweater patterns — and also might be considered the trickiest part because the construction goes outside of your typical steps when sewing a top. Not to worry! We’ve got a video walking you through the ::entire:: sewing process, including how to wrap your brain around those amazing banded bottoms!

https://youtu.be/Y1h29SHzflkhttp://

Let’s take a look at some of the different options:

Hemlines (Crop / Top / Tunic)

Necklines (Crew / Scoop (Adult Only) / Turtleneck)

Sleeves (Cuffed / Hemmed)

We are so excited to see what you sew up with the new Friendly City Sweater 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, January 22, 2023.

Friendly City Sweater | Friendly City Sweater – Youth | Friendly City Sweater – Bundle

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

Friendly City Sweater Album | Friendly City Sweater – Youth Album

 

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

July 11, 2022

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

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Go Team Patterns :: New Pattern Releases!!

October 15, 2021

IT. IS. GO. TEAM. TIME.  We have been working our bootys off on a set of four amazing patterns and today is the day, y’all!  We are ready to release them to our favorite pirate community!

Let’s talk allllll about the Go Team Jerseys and the Go Team Dresses!!

Whether you’re a fan of a sports team or just a fan of looking and feeling great, the Go Team Jersey is a great t-shirt for your wardrobe. The relaxed fit is super comfortable and the sporty details set it apart from your everyday tee. The front and back yoke give a great opportunity for mixing fabrics, decorative stitching or adding wording. The sleeve stripes are another great detail you can add for a sporty feel. You can pick from crew or V neckline, or even add a hood instead. This pattern works great year around with short, 3/4, long hemmed or long cuffed sleeve options. Shirt length options for average, short, and tall heights along with separate sleeves for each height.


The options for the Go Team Jersey includes:

  • Crew, V and Hooded Necklines.
  • Short, 3/4, Long Hemmed, and Long Cuffed Sleeve Lengths.
  • Adult sizes include Short, Average and Tall lengths for Sleeves and Bodice.
  • Stylish front + back yokes.
  • Optional Sleeve Stripes.

The youth sizes range from 3m – 14 and the adult sizes are for the full, newer size chart, extending from XXS – Plus 6X!  Please make sure to check the size charts, as there were slight adjustments made to accommodate the new size range for adults.



Goooo Team! Whether your “team” is for sports, foodie, fan fiction, or anything else, the Go Team Dress is the perfect way to show off your team spirit!  Or you can take this pattern and make a plain top for a great basic tee…while also allowing the perfect opportunity for fabric mixing with the front and back yoke. The stripes on the sleeves are another fun sporty detail you can add or leave off. You can choose from a crew, V or hood neckline. Don’t worry about what time of year it is because this pattern has you covered with short, 3/4, long hemmed or long with cuff sleeve options. Have a certain bottom you’re plaining on pairing your Go Team Dress with? No worries there… you can opt for crop, which goes great with high waisted bottoms, shirt, that hits mid booty, tunic, that hits under booty, curved hemline, also below booty, and dress, that hits at a flattering couple inches above knees. The semi-fitted, figure skimming silhouette is comfortable and flattering at the same time.


For this pattern, the youth sizes range from 3m – 14 and the adult sizes are for the size ranges from XXS – Plus 5X!  

The options for the Go Team Dress includes:

  • Crew, V and Hooded Necklines.
  • Short, 3/4, Long Hemmed, and Long Cuffed Sleeve Lengths.
  • Adult sizes hem lengths: Crop, Shirt, Tunic and Knee.
  • Youth sizes hem lengths: Shirt, Tunic, Curved Hem, and Dress Lengths.
  • Stylish front + back yokes.
  • Optional Sleeve Stripes.


*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!

GO TEAM JERSEY + GO TEAM DRESS – NECKLINES
 
GO TEAM JERSEY + GO TEAM DRESS – SLEEVE LENGTHS
 
GO TEAM JERSEY + GO TEAM DRESS OPTIONAL SLEEVE STRIPES
 
GO TEAM DRESS – HEMLINES

What are you waiting for?  Head on over and grab yourself a copy of the Go Team patterns!  They are available on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, Friday October 22, 2021.

GO TEAM JERSEY | GO TEAM JERSEY – YOUTH

GO TEAM DRESS | GO TEAM DRESS – YOUTH

GO TEAM DRESS + JERSEY BUNDLE

Maybe hoping for a little more inspiration before you make the purchase?  Head over to our Facebook group where you can see tester albums full of amazing images!

Go Team Jersey Album | Go Team Jersey – Youth Album

Go Team Dress Album | Go Team Dress – Youth Album

 

Filed Under: Pattern Release 2 Comments

All Buttoned Up :: New Pattern Release!!

September 9, 2021

Guess what day it is?!  PATTERN RELEASE DAY, y’all!!  It’s always so much fun when we get to launch patterns that we’ve been working hard on behind the scenes.  The All Buttoned Up patterns (in both adult and youth sizes) are S.O. G.O.O.D. — we think you’re going to just love them so much!


The All Buttoned Up is a staple in every wardrobe.  Nothing beats having a great cardigan to throw on when you’re chilly, and this one happens to be incredibly versatile!

You can wear it buttoned up as a shirt or dress or over another layer as an open cardigan.  It’s slim enough to wear another layer over comfortably for even colder times.  The multiple sleeve lengths and top lengths give this pattern year round usage. The V-neckline and crew neckline mean you can create the perfect pairings for any layers you need it to match.  Fitted enough to look sleek, but still has room to grow and stay in their closet for great usage.  Casual enough to wear buttoned up with jeans or dressed up over a nice dress.

This one cardigan pattern will you give you miles of usage over the seasons and years with it’s timeless look and options.

The All Buttoned Up is drafted for a high stretch fabric like sweater knits, double brushed poly, spandex rib knits, and the like. Options include: crop, shirt, tunic, and knee lengths; short, 3/4, long hemmed and long with cuff sleeve lengths, v-neckline and crew necklines.  The adult pattern features a back seaming (meaning you don’t have to worry about any pooling around your lower back waist) and it also has an additional lower scoop neckline.

*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.



The options include:

  • Multiple lengths: Crop / Shirt / Tunic / Knee
  • Multiple Sleeve lengths: Short / 3/4 / Long Hemmed / Long Cuffed
  • Multiple Necklines: Crew / Vneck (with an additional Scoop option for the adult sizes)
  • The adult pattern features a back seam on the bodice, with a built-in sway back adjustment

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

HEM LENGTHS
 
SLEEVE LENGTHS
 
NECKLINES
 

What are you waiting for?  Head on over and grab yourself a copy of the All Buttoned Up patterns!  They are available on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, September 17, 2021.

ALL BUTTONED UP | ALL BUTTONED UP – YOUTH | ALL BUTTONED UP – BUNDLE

Maybe hoping for a little more inspiration before you make the purchase?  Head over to our Facebook group where you can see tester albums full of amazing images!

All Buttoned Up Album | All Buttoned Up – Youth Album

But wait!  There’s more!  Before you go, take a look at all of the Easy Hacks that our team put together, to help take your patterns a little further!

 

Filed Under: Pattern Release 2 Comments

Rainbow Dress :: New Pattern Release!!

August 13, 2021

Happy pattern release day, y’all!!

We are SO SUPER DUPER EXCITED to share all about the newest pattern releases we have over at Patterns for Pirates today! The Rainbow Dress is drafted for both adult and youth sizes and you are about to be as smitten with the pattern as we are!

The Rainbow Dress is such a fun and unique pattern that can be used to create a classic and simple dress or top or add all the fun details and create something extrodary! No matter what the dress option will have you feeling twirly and beautiful! The sleeve options will take you all year round.

Rainbows aren’t really your thing? That’s okay too, we included a plain skirt option as well.  And to make sure you weren’t left with no fun details we also added a fun gathered sleeve option, pockets, and an adorable peter pan style front collar.

The Rainbow Dress is drafted for high stretch knits like cotton spandex, double brushed poly, spandex rib knits, medium weight sweater knits, ITY, DTY, and the like.  The peter pan collar however can be made in a woven, so you can use that non-stretch lace that looks so classic and cute.

This dress was designed by my very own Rainbow Baby who happens to love rainbows.  I couldn’t imagine doing a rainbow dress without also supporting our friends in the LGBTQAI+community with the pattern, so a small proceeds of all sales will go to the Trevor Project and Share Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support (10% calculated at the end of each year).  So, if you purchase this pattern you can not only enjoy the fun, twirly, unique design, but also feel great that you’re helping support communities in need.

*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.

The options include:

  • Gathered Sleeves w/cuffs (in short, 3/4 and long lengths)
  • Fitted sleeves (in short, 3/4 and long lengths)
  • Full circle skirt (plain or rainbow colorblocked)
  • Crop and Top length shirt bodices
  • Two necklines + optional Peter Pan collar for the higher version
  • Optional pockets

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

GATHERED SLEEVES

FITTED SLEEVES

PLAIN / RAINBOW COLORBLOCKED CIRCLE SKIRTS

CROP + TOP LENGTH SHIRTS

HIGH / LOW** NECKLINE / PETER PAN COLLAR

**Low Neckline option for adult pattern only.

OPTIONAL POCKETS

What are you waiting for?  Head on over and grab yourself a copy of the Rainbow Dress patterns!  They are available on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, August 20, 2021.

RAINBOW DRESS | RAINBOW DRESS – YOUTH | RAINBOW DRESS – BUNDLE

Maybe hoping for a little more inspiration before you make the purchase?  Head over to our Facebook group where you can see tester albums full of amazing images!

Rainbow Dress Album | Rainbow Dress – Youth Album

 

Filed Under: Pattern Release Leave a Comment

Paperbag Pants + Skirt :: New Pattern Release!

July 8, 2021

Guess what day it is?? It’s pattern release day!!! And we’ve got a doozy of a pattern to tell you all about. It checks off SO MANY requests that we’ve had come in over the last few years.

Let’s talk all about the new Paperbag Pants + Skirt patterns, in both youth and adult sizes!!

You will have so much fun sewing up these simple bottoms with the adorable paperbag ruffle top! They’re on trend and comfortable with an elastic waistband.  They’re perfect for woven fabrics with no stretch, stretch wovens or even a stable knit.  The ruffle along the top of the waistband is adorable and fun to wear year round paired with a tank or a cardigan.  You can pink the perfect length shorts from 3″ or 5″ inseams.  The above ankle capri pant is an adorable more fitted pant you can easily dress up or down with different tops and shoes.  You can go short with a mini skirt or longer with a knee length.

Pair any of these options with adorable patch pockets big enough to fit your giant cell phone in comfortably! You can go all out and add belt loops and a tie belt to tie everything together as well!

*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.

The options include: Options include:  3″ or 5″ inseam shorts for adult/ shorts, 26″ capri pants, mini for adult/mid thigh skirt, knee skirt, patch pockets, belt loops and tie belt.

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

SKIRT LENGTHS (MINI + KNEE)

SHORTS (3″ INSEAM / 5″ INSEAM ADULT)

ABOVE ANKLE PANT LENGTH

PATCH POCKETS

BELT LOOPS + BELT

What are you waiting for?  Head on over and grab yourself a copy of the Paperbag Pants + Skirt patterns!  They are available on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, July 19, 2021.

PAPERBAG PANTS + SKIRT | PAPERBAG PANTS + SKIRT – YOUTH | PAPERBAG PANTS + SKIRT – BUNDLE

Maybe hoping for a little more inspiration before you make the purchase?  Head over to our Facebook group where you can see tester albums full of amazing images!

Paperbag Pants + Skirt Album | Paperbag Pants + Skirt – Youth Album

If you’re looking for even more options, we show you a few more ways you can use this pattern in our Paperbag Pants + Skirt Easy Hacks post.

 

Filed Under: Pattern Release 1 Comment

New Pattern Releases :: Be Bold Bodysuit!

March 10, 2021

We are so excited to be celebrating another release day with our favorite Pirate Crew!  We’ve been wanting to put out a bodysuit for forever now, and the day is finally here.  Let’s learn all about the Be Bold Bodysuits, available in both Adult and Youth sizes!


The Be Bold Bodysuit will have you feeling fierce in any option. This classic tight fit bodysuit is meant to feel snug and act as the perfect tucked in top without worrying about anything coming un-tucked. With all the options we’ve packed into this single pattern, you’ll be able to make a perfect bodysuit or crop to pair with any bottoms – skirts, pants, overalls, casual or dressy. You can pick from a higher or lower neckline on both the back and front for the adult pattern, and a higher or lower back neckline for the youth version.  You can also take this pattern from the hot summer with the multiple tank options to the cooler weather with longer sleeve options. You can finish the neckline with a simple picot elastic or with a lining and shelf bra.
Moving down for the adult pattern, you can have multiple bottom options as well!  You can do a thong or brief plus pick if you’d like the seam in the traditional back spot or add snaps with a front seam for ease of snapping. The bodysuit is partially lined so you can use the bodysuit as your undergarment.
Drafted for high stretch (4 way stretch) knit fabrics like cotton spandex, double brushed poly, ribbed knits, athletic knits, or swim knits.  Options include: crop length, bodysuit with thong (snaps or back seam), bodysuit with brief (snaps or back seam), lined neckline with shelf bra, unlined with picot finished neckline, thin strap tank, tank, short sleeve, 3/4 sleeve or long sleeve.
Enjoy several videos throughout the tutorial like fabric suggestions, options and cutlines video, how to add/remove length to pieces, sewing the picot on the shelf bra, neckline and leg lines, and lining the tank option.

The youth sizes range from 3m – 14 and the adult sizes are for the full, newer size chart, extending from XXS – Plus 5X!  If you haven’t sewn with us in a while, please make sure to check the size charts, as there were slight adjustments made to accommodate the new size range for adults.



*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 quick look at all of the options!

There are three options available for the sleeves- short, 3/4, and long. If sleeves are quite the look you’re going for, check out the sleeveless options, including a classic tank strap as well as a thin strap tank. For the necklines, not only is it a fun squared design, there are several options that can be mixed and matched. If you’re feeling a bit daring, there is a low option available for both front and back bodices. If you’d like a little more coverage, there are also higher cutlines. You can use these options together to create your perfect look. To help finish the necklines, use either a simple picot elastic or finish with a lining and shelf bra. To round out the Be Bold Bodysuit, you have multiple leg options (available on the adult version).  This includes either a thong or brief plus you can choose if you’d like the seam in the traditional back spot or add snaps with a front seam for ease of snapping.  The bodysuit is partially lined so you can use the bodysuit as  your undergarment.

SLEEVED OPTIONS



SLEEVELESS OPTIONS



NECKLINES




ADULT LEGLINE OPTIONS


PICOT FINISHING


LINED w/SHELF BRA


What are you waiting for?  Head on over and grab yourself a copy of the perfect Be Bold patterns!  They are available on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, March 19, 2021.

BE BOLD BODYSUIT | BE BOLD BODYSUIT – YOUTH | BE BOLD BODYSUIT – BUNDLE

Maybe hoping for a little more inspiration before you make the purchase?  Head over to our Facebook group where you can see tester albums full of amazing images!

Be Bold Bodysuit | Be Bold Bodysuit – Youth

If you’re looking for even more options, we show you a few more ways you can use this pattern in our Be Bold Easy Hacks post.

 

Filed Under: Pattern Release Leave a Comment

New Pattern Releases :: Sunflower Swim Top + Busy Bee Swim Bottoms!

June 27, 2020

To help your summer go swimmingly well (ba-dum-ching!) we are bringing you a brand new set of swimwear tops and bottoms!  And we couldn’t be more excited about sharing them with you all.  In both adult and youth sizes, we are happy to introduce you to the Sunflower Swim Top and the Busy Bee Swim Bottoms!  For both of these patterns, the youth sizes range from 3m – 14.  And the adult sizes are for the full, newer size chart, extending from XXS – Plus 5X!  If you haven’t sewn with us in a while, please make sure to check the size charts, as there were slight adjustments made to accommodate the new size range for adults.

Okay, now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s start first by telling you all about the Sunflower Swim Top, shall we?


The Sunflower Swim Top is a great beginner swim top to try out if you’re wanting to start sewing swim for adults! The open back is very forgiving in fit since you can tie it a bit tighter or looser to get your perfect preferred fit. You can pick your bust coverage with a higher straight neckline or the lower scoop neckline. The full back is a very quick and easy sew that you can sew up for a simple and quick top. The flattering fit ends right at your smallest point to show off your natural waistline. But if you want a little more coverage you can add the optional ruffle. The top is fully lined and has the optional shelf bra. You can also add innerlining and removable cups to the shelf bra for even more support.

Options include: high straight neckline, scoop neckline, full back, open back, shelf bra, removable cups, and ruffle.

Enjoy several videos throughout the tutorial like complete sew ups of 2 different tops which cover all the options.

SUNFLOWER SWIM TOP | SUNFLOWER SWIM TOP – YOUTH | SUNFLOWER SWIM TOP – BUNDLE




The Busy Bee Swim Bottoms will have your swimsuit drawer full in no time with a variety of looks! You can mix and match with your tops easily, depending on your mood or where and who you’re going swimming with!  In case you’re feeling like you want more coverage, you can grab the high rise and brief options.  But in the event that you’re feeling like baring it all for less obtrusive tan lanes…go for the cheeky and low rise. Or you can pick between those two with a mid-rise, which hits just below the belly button.  Mix in some ruching at the side seams for a fun detail. These bottoms are very simple and quick to make with the waistline and leglines hemmed under with swim elastic. You can also choose to partially line or fully line.

Options include: low rise, mid rise, high rise, cheeky booty cutline (adult only), brief booty cutline, ruched side seams, partially lined or fully lined.

Enjoy several videos throughout the tutorial like adding/removing length, complete sew ups of ruched, plain, partially and fully lined bottoms.

BUSY BEE SWIM BOTTOMS | BUSY BEE SWIM BOTTOMS – YOUTH | BUSY BEE SWIM BOTTOMS – BUNDLE



**Want to learn more about how to measure yourself for this 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 and A0 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 quick look at the different options and features!

SUNFLOWER BACK FINISHES

SUNFLOWER TOP HEMS

SUNFLOWER NECKLINES

BUSY BEE RISES

BUSY BEE LEG LINES (ADULT ONLY)

What are you waiting for?  Head on over and grab yourself a copy of these swim separates!  The Sunflower Swim Top and Busy Bee Swim Bottoms will be on sale (no code needed) through 11:59pm CST, July 5, 2020.

Don’t see the perfect bundle for the patterns you’d like to buy? Don’t forget you can always make your own bundle!

SUNFLOWER SWIM TOP | SUNFLOWER SWIM TOP – YOUTH | SUNFLOWER SWIM TOP – BUNDLE
BUSY BEE SWIM BOTTOMS | BUSY BEE SWIM BOTTOMS – YOUTH | BUSY BEE SWIM BOTTOMS – BUNDLE

Maybe hoping for a little more inspiration before you make the purchase?  Head over to our Facebook group where you can see tester albums full of amazing images!

Sunflower Swim Album | Busy Bee Swim Album | Sunflower Swim Youth Album | Busy Bee Youth Album

If you’re looking for even more options, we show you a few more ways you can use this pattern in our Sunflower Swim Top Easy Hacks Blog Post!

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Plushie Pals :: Free Sewing Pattern + Tutorial!

February 3, 2020

It’s February, which means I’m already brainstorming cute gift ideas for Valentine’s Day for the kiddos in my life.  I love sending little packages of things to my niece and nephew up north, and including something handmade is always at the top of my list.  And that’s exactly why these Plushie Pals were born!

We are bringing our newest pattern to you today, keeping in mind that you’re probably short on time like the rest of us.  The Plushie Pals are super duper fast to sew, and end with the cutest results!  The fox, bunny and bear pattern pieces are all included, but the pattern itself would be incredibly easy to adjust into just about any animal or character that you could think of!  Let’s get to sewing, shall we?

 

Grab your “PLUSHIE PALS” pattern pieces here!

Oh! This time around, I loaded the pieces onto Cricut Design Space so you could cut them with your Maker.  Find them here: Plushie Pals for Cricut Maker

Fabric Requirements (based upon 44″ wide fabrics): 

– 1/3 yard main body fabric.  Directional prints will require more.  (I like to use flannel, but quilting cottons / kona cottons / felt will all work for this!)
– Felt for fox face and bear/fox bellies.  The edges are left raw on these pieces, so you’ll want to use something that won’t fray.
– Scrap sizes of fabrics for ear accent colors.
– Buttons, embroidery thread for facial features.
– Fiberfill.

1/4″ seam allowance used throughout pattern, unless otherwise indicated.

  • For Fox/Bear options: With both fabrics facing up, align the belly piece to one of the main body pieces and stitch along long, outer curve, at around 1/8″ inch.

  • For Fox option only: With both fabrics facing up, align the face piece to main body piece and stitch along top and bottom edges, at around 1/8″ inch.

  • For all options: This is the best time to add facial features to your Plushie Pal.  Using a fabric marker (I used a permanent one so it would show easier in photos), draw a triangular nose shape to help guide your stitches, if choosing to embroider the details.  Details could also be applied and look adorable in fabric paints or using HTV.  We didn’t include any specific facial details in the pattern because there are so many different ways to make a face. 🙂

  • For Fox/Bear options: Place two ear pieces, right sides together.

  • Sew along outer edge(s).

  • Clip seam allowances and turn ears right sides out.  Press.  Topstitch if desired.  *repeat with second ear.

  • For Bunny option: Place two ear pieces, right sides together.

  • Sew along outer curved edges.

  • Clip seam allowances and turn ears right sides out.  Press.  Topstitch if desired.

  • Fold along the top, raw edge, meeting the corners together.  Clip or baste top edge in place.  Repeat with other ear.

  • For all options: With right sides together, align ears using the markings on the pattern pieces.

**Note: The bear and fox ears will need to be eased in along the curved edges.  While the bunny ears will simply be centered against the marking on the body piece, be sure to tuck them out of the way while sewing so you don’t catch them in the next steps.

  • With the front body piece facing upwards, place the back body piece on top (right sides together).

  • Sew along entire outer edge, leaving only about a 3″ opening along one of the sides for turning.

  • Clip corners and seam allowances before turning.  It is recommended to use pinking shears around all of the curved edges for a cleaner look once turned and stuffed.  I circled the most important parts to make sure to clip, in order to avoid wrinkles or pulling at the “joints” of the arms and legs.

  • Turn your Plushie Pal right sides out, through the opening you left in the previous step.

  • Using fiberfil, stuff your Pal to your liking.  Be careful not to overstuff.  And using a tool like a chopstick / bodkin is incredibly helpful for filling the arms and legs and getting the stuffing into the corners easily.

  • Tuck your seam allowance back into the opening.  Pin or clip.  And using your favorite method, stitch it shut.

You’re all done!  Be careful — once you make one, you’re going to want to make ten more!  (Ask me how I know…..)  They’re just so darn cute!

As always, we love when you share what you’ve made with us.  Head over to the Patterns for Pirates Facebook group and show off the fabulous Plushie Pals that you’ve managed to make from our freebie pattern!  Happy Valentine’s Day, friends!

Filed Under: Free Pattern, Pattern Release 6 Comments

New Pattern Release :: Oversized Sweater!

January 23, 2020

January for the majority of us means sweater weather.  The trend right now seems to be leaning toward an oversized, super cozy, slouchy sweater — and we jumped right on board with that style!  Aptly named, the Oversized Sweaters are about to be your new best friends.  Let’s talk about them, shall we?


The Oversized Sweater patterns are super classic loose sweater / sweatshirt / jumper patterns. The fit and style is so versatile and can be used with all the cozy fabrics everyone loves and stockpiles during the winter months! It’s time to use that stack of fluffy fabrics you’ve accumulated!  This fast and easy sew will fill up your closets with pieces your whole family will love!

You can pick from 3 different necklines: a classic crew neckband, a tall turtleneck, or a hood — and the youth pattern even comes with optional ears! You can get creative with the short pointy ears (kitty, fox, wolf), rounded ears (bear, koala, panda), and long bunny ears. Who can resist those adorable ears? The hemline also includes 3 options: tight waistband, curved hemline and a split high low hem.

With the loose fit and many options you can create so many different looks with fabrics like french terry, sweater knits, sweatshirt fleece, fleece, sherpa, etc.



**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 and A0 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 quick look at the different options!

HEM OPTIONS: HIGH-LOW SPLIT / CURVED / TIGHT WAISTBAND

NECKLINE OPTIONS: FOLD-OVER TURTLENECK / CREW / HOODED

OPTIONAL ANIMAL EARS INCLUDED IN THE YOUTH PATTERN: POINTED EARS / ROUNDED EARS / BUNNY EARS

How about some fabric inspiration?  The looser fit means you can use something super drapey or super thick for different looks. Here are some of the favorite tester choices:

SWEATER KNITS:

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WAFFLE KNITS:

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FRENCH TERRY:

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SHERPA:

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OTHERS:

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In case you were looking for some more inspiration, you can find all of our tester images in our Facebook group!  Go check them out: Oversized Sweater Facebook Album | Oversized Sweater – Youth Facebook Album

Are you ready to sew your new favorite sweater?  Go grab the patterns now!

OVERSIZED SWEATER | OVERSIZED SWEATER – YOUTH | OVERSIZED SWEATER – ADULT/YOUTH BUNDLE

And if our pattern alone doesn’t provide enough options for you, we’ve also included a blog post that will help take your Oversized Sweaters to the next level!  Go check out our Easy Hacks Post to see how to make some slight alterations to the original pattern, to customize it even further!

The release sale (no code needed) will be through Saturday February 1 (11:59PM US Central Time Zone).

Happy Sewing, Pirates!

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