Penelope Swimsuit
In this class, we'll sew a children's swimsuit with a hip ruffle and crossed straps, perfect for the beach or pool. The pattern includes sizes for ages 2 through 13!
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 the Penelope, a children’s one-piece swimsuit with a gathered hip ruffle and slim straps that cross at the back.
The pattern can also become a ruffle-free suit, a color-blocked version, or a design with straight or halter-style straps.
What you’ll learn in this class
- Prepare your machine for sewing Lycra.
- Join and secure the lower lining.
- Apply swim elastic around the legs and back.
- Gather the ruffle evenly to match the body.
- Join the upper and lower sections cleanly.
- Bind the neckline and form the straps.
- Fit and secure crossed back straps.
Fabric and supplies
Use Lycra or another suitable swimwear knit. Natural rubber or silicone elastic provides recovery around the legs and back.
Use a stretch or super-stretch needle. Depending on your equipment, sew with an elastic stitch, zigzag, or overlocker.
Make it your own
- Keep or omit the gathered hip ruffle.
- Use contrasting fabrics for the upper and lower sections.
- Overlap the pattern sections by 1 cm for a continuous ruffle-free body.
- Wear the straps crossed or straight, or lengthen them for a halter tie.
- Add the hooded towel poncho.
- Add the anti-sand beach backpack.
Pattern sizes
The home-print pattern covers ages 2–13. Check the strap length on the child before securing the back ends.
See how to use a PDF sewing pattern if you need help preparing the file.
This intermediate class covers swimwear elastic, stretch seams, lining, a gathered ruffle, neckline binding, and straps. It also explains the supported design variations.
Pattern & materials
Patterns are included with membership
Active members can download every available PDF and materials list.
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