Sewing your own swimwear seems to be one of those projects that makes many of us quiver at the knees, but this need not be the case. If you’ve made a couple of garments using a stretch fabric like a jersey then you already have most of the skills needed to sew your own swimsuits. We’ve rounded up ten of our favourite swimsuit and bikini sewing patterns, with summer just around the corner.. what are you waiting for? There is also a video to go along with this…

Violet Swimsuit  – Laela Jeyne Patterns

The violet swimsuit is a firm favourite with us. This super pattern comes with a faux wrap detail at the front and bust cup options (hurrah!) You can choose from three variations, the first with a ruffle added to the wrap detail, the second a simple wrap style and the third with cut out options at the waist. The big question is which on to make first?

Sizing: UK 6 – 30 and bust cup sizes A – E

Pattern Format: PDF and optional copyshop printing available

Want to see it on some real people?  Check it out on Instagram here.

Cottesloe Swimsuit – Megan Nielsen

The Cottesloe Swimsuit by Megan Nielsen is a classic swimsuit shape  with a mix and match bikini set sewing pattern. The pattern features athletic elements, four variations and includes detailed instructions to guide the sewer through swimsuit construction techniques. View A is a one piece swimsuit with low scoop back, shelf bra and ties at the back. View B is a one piece swimsuit with high scoop back. View C is a bikini top and a low rise bikini bottom. View D is an athletic inspired bikini top and high waisted bikini bottom with wide waistband. All versions have the option of being fully lined.

Sizing: approx. UK 0-20

Pattern format: Paper

Want to see it on some real people?  Check it out on Instagram here.

Vernazza Two Piece – The Friday Pattern Company

Whether you’re frolicking along the coastline of northern Italy or sunbathing in your backyard, the Vernazza Two Piece will have you feeling glamorous and comfortable. The simple construction was what caught our eye, the pattern features simple tank straps and adjustable tie front. The bottoms are high waisted and finish at your belly button but can be easily altered for a higher or lower rise depending on what you are after.

Sizing: 6-28

Pattern Format: PDF & Paper (note the paper pattern goes up to a size 20)

Want to see it on some real people?  Check it out on Instagram here.

Pilatus Swimsuit – Opian

The Pilatus swimsuit has the most awesome 80s vibe to it, with a tie feature at the front and high-waisted bottoms, it’s bang on trend for summer. The pattern doesn’t come with any support apart from the tie at the front so is probably suited to smaller bust sizes. The thing we really loved about it is the high waisted bottoms so that you are showing a little bit of flesh but just under the bust.

Sizing: UK 4 – 20

Pattern Format: PDF and optional copyshop printing available

Want to see it on some real people?  Check it out on Instagram here.

Itaca Swimsuit – Étoffe Malicieuse

We love the vintage feel of the Itaca swimsuit. The pattern features a bow style feature with cut out  panel under the bust. There is a low back with strap across the back to add extra support where you need it. There is also an option to add a ruffle to the straps of the swimsuit which looks fantastic!

Sizing: UK 4 – 20

Pattern Format: PDF and optional copyshop printing available

Want to see it on some real people?  Check it out on Instagram here.

Ipswich Swimsuit and Bikini – Cashmerette 

The Ipswich Swimsuit is a really versatile swimsuit and bikini and comes with countless options to really make it your dream swimwear. The pattern features supportive straps and includes cup sizes C-H  with optional underwired foam swim bra and boning. The cut lines of this pattern mean there are so many ways you can colour block it, or even add some contrast piping, and this design helps with the fitting process too. It’s a winner in our eyes.

Sizing: approx. UK 12 –  28

Pattern Format: Paper.

Want to see it on some real people?  Check it out on Instagram here.

The Valeria Swimsuit –  Sirena Patterns

If you are looking for a simple swimsuit pattern with sleeves then look no further than the Valeria Swimsuit from Sirena Patterns. This pattern is perfect for those of you that want a bit of protection from the sun on your arms. The pattern features a fairly simple scoop neck at the front and a low back.

Sizing: UK 6 – 18

Pattern Format: PDF and optional copyshop printing available

Seabright Swimmer  – Friday Pattern Company

If you are looking for something a little more unusual the Seabright swimmer might be the perfect option for you. This beautiful pattern comes with two variations and features a plunging neckline with gathering at the waist and shoulders. There is a sleeved and sleeveless option making it a really versatile option for you to sew this summer.

Sizing: UK 6-24

Pattern Format: Paper & PDF with optional copyshop printing available

Want to see it on some real people?  Check it out on Instagram here

The Well’s Bay Bikini – Halfmoon Atelier

The Well’s Bay Bikini from Halfmoon Atelier is your basics go-to bikini pattern. It’s reversible with tie fastenings making it a really simple construction. Even better than this is needs just 1m of fabric, a great stash buster!

Sizing: UK 6-20

Pattern Format: PDF and optional copyshop printing available

Want to see it on some real people?  Check it out on Instagram here

The Camille Swimsuit from Sirena Patterns

This super swimsuit has a real 70s dynasty feel to it  – we love it. The pattern features two wide panels at  the front with gathering that tie around the neck. The gathering means that even with a larger bust this pattern should work for you and hopefully not too much side boob! There is a second variation has a tie at the front around the waist.

Sizing: UK 6-20

Pattern Format: PDF and optional copyshop printing available

Want to see it on some real people?  Check it out on Instagram here

Sophie Swimsuit & Bikini – Closet Core Patterns

The Sophie swimsuit and bikini pattern features a 3-piece balconette cup offering great support. View A is a classic one-piece with a pronounced hourglass shape and skinny elastic straps. View B mixes a bra-style halter tied top with an elegant high-waisted bikini bottom. With a low cut leg and a full cup, both offer sexily modest coverage. Learn how to add optional underwires and foam cups to make the most supportive swimsuit ever. This pattern is screaming out for a bit of colour blocking or perhaps contrasting prints, you can really get creative with your fabric choices. This is definitely the swimsuit offering for you if good support is important.

Sizing: 0 – 20

Want to see it on some real people?  Check it out on Instagram here.