Nemo Anti-Chafe Swim Shorts
Children’s swim shorts with integrated inner leggings designed to prevent chafing, available for ages 2 to 15.
Project preview
This video is for members
Join Lulu Ferris to watch the complete class and sew along at your own pace.
What you’ll make
Sew children’s Bermuda-style swim shorts with integrated stretch leggings designed to cover the thighs and reduce the chafing that can occur in wet swimwear.
The outer shorts include side-seam pockets, while an elastic waistband provides the fit. A drawstring can be added through reinforced buttonholes or eyelets.
The fitted inner layer, outer shorts and waistband are joined to form a single garment.
What you’ll learn in this class
- Construct close-fitting inner shorts from stretch fabric.
- Choose elastic stitches or overlock finishes for Lycra seams.
- Assemble woven outer shorts with integrated pockets.
- Join the inner shorts, outer shorts and waistband.
- Insert waistband elastic without twisting it.
- Reinforce drawstring openings and finish the hems.
Fabric choices
The swim version uses quick-drying Tactel for the outer shorts and Lycra for the fitted inner layer. The pockets may be cut from the outer fabric or mesh.
The Lycra needs a stretch-compatible stitch. The non-stretch outer fabric can be sewn with a straight stitch and an overcast or overlock finish.
You can also use another woven fabric for the outer shorts to create everyday anti-chafe Bermuda shorts instead of swimwear.
Make it your own
- Lengthen the inner leggings for coverage closer to the knee.
- Lengthen both the inner and outer shorts.
- Use mesh instead of outer fabric for the pockets.
- Omit the drawstring and its buttonholes or eyelets.
- Add a back pocket.
Pattern sizing
The pattern covers ages 2/3 through 14/15, corresponding to heights from 95–105 cm through 158–170 cm.
Across the full range, the chart covers waists of 49–72 cm and hips of 54–88 cm. Use the supplied body measurements rather than choosing by age alone.
The video class includes the Nemo pattern in A4 for home printing and A0 for large-format printing.
Pattern & materials
Patterns are included with membership
Active members can download every available PDF and materials list.
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