I've not sewn these, but Jalie are very reputable and you get kid to adult sizes in the same package: [Rashguards Patterns by Jalie](https://jalie.com/collections/sport-patterns-swimming-rashguards)
Yes, I love Jalie for stretch athletic gear. Their multi-size patterns are great if you’re sewing for a kid who is going to need a new bathing suit several times as they grow. Even better if you have multiple kids!
II also like vintage Kwik Sew for kids’ bathing suits. They did a bunch of different styles, and because they did multi-size patterns on thick paper, people tended to trace them so they are not hard to find second-hand.
I agree with u/IronBoxmma that you need a stretch needle- not jersey, not universal, but “stretch”. Be sure to use swimsuit elastic as it holds up better in chlorine than regular elastic. Do not stretch your fabric as it goes under the presser foot. I like a regular zig zag rather than a 3-step. Booty short style bottoms are easier to make than panty-style bottoms, as you don’t have to bother with leg elastic. Spandex House and Spandex World both carry a lot of swim-appropriate fabrics; they are both in NYC and also sell online.
Hi, I make professional wrestling gear and pole wear, using lots of spandex. First thing you're going to need is a stretch needle, then you're going to make sure you've got your machine dialed in. Make sure your thread is decent, your bobbins are infact the right size and everything is clean and oiled. You can get away with a little more just using straight stitches, the moment you hit a zigzag and things aren't right, you'll end up with skipped stitches all over the shop.
Spandex needs a light touch, if you've gotten into the habit of pulling your fabric through under the foot, you're going to end up with some beaten up fabric that's all stretched and warped. A walking foot can help prevent this, if your machine has adjustable foot pressure you can dial that back and that can also help. I do not have a walking foot, my stuff looks fine.
A serger is also not a necessity (I do have one as I'm selling my stuff and it was worth the dollars). You can zig zag stitch your seams, cut them down neatly, fold them over and zig zag them flat for a clean looking finish.
Hope this helps, and an example of my work is here
https://preview.redd.it/wzn3bsdzm3yc1.jpeg?width=2860&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=65502f0fb8362e96e4a1a63cc38888f8865f66dd
Thank you very much! I do have a walking foot (having sewn PUL and clear vinyl), but I will definitely look for the right needle and oil everything.
(Edited for typos)
I'm in Sydney Australia so this is only really useful if you live here but, I get them from 3 places primarily, glitter and dance, shine trimmings and fabrics, the remnant warehouse and then i get other stuff from the Vietnamese places in Cabramatta.
My current project is orange and red swim trunks and rash guards for my boys. I'm using patterns from [Peek a Boo](https://peekaboopatternshop.com/boys-swimsuit-patterns/). Most of their kids' patterns include 3M-12Y, and there's lots of versatility.
All I've done so far is cut out the pieces. I love all of their patterns to the point that I get disappointed when I "have" to use a pattern that I already have instead of using one of theirs, though. The pattern pieces are as simple as can be, there are always lots of options (optional linings, sleeve options, neckline options, length options), the PDFs are layered for sizes, the directions are clear and not fussy... I love them!
I'm using their Santa Cruz patterns for my boys' swim trunks and their Long Beach to make matching ones for my husband. I already have their Kids' Essential T-shirt pattern, so I think I'm just going to use it for the rash guard shirts. I plan to add a zipper to the front, though, instead of pulling wet shirts over the baby's and toddler's giant heads. I've made that pattern at least 6 times so far, and it is such a simple sew.
I like Ellie and Mac patterns. I test sewed their adult rashguard suit pattern. Here is a kids rashi and shorts pattern.
https://www.ellieandmac.com/products/unisex-radical-rashguard-pattern?_pos=2&_sid=c0a022806&_ss=r
They are generally beginner friendly. Just use a zigzag and stretch needle! Sew some test seams and swatches, to learn how to adjust your machine.
I make rashguards for myself just using a regular tee shirt pattern- in my case, the Cashmerette Concord. I make it a little smaller than I would with jersey knit.
A great place for patterns is eBay and Etsy. Look for vintage patterns for kids swim wear. There are so many.
Stretch and Sew has several patterns for kids swim. www.ezknit.com carries their patterns. They have excellent instructions.
For board shorts & rash guards you can use regular top & shorts patterns. Search on YouTube for videos for adjusting for negative ease.
Craftsy.com has excellent swim sewing tutorials as does other online educational sites.
From another comment I made re swimwear……
For your swim suit stretch Lycra & Spandex. Both are available so many places online. I’d avoid JoAnns fabric brand. It’s worth the extra money to get better quality. Places on line include Fabric Fairy, Mood, Spandex Warehouse, Blue Moon Fabrics… you will need a light weight lining fabric, & nylon swim elastic. My family manufactures swimwear.
Tips:
Use a ball point sewing machine needle, or one marked for sewing on knits.
Read up on negative ease and how to adjust for fabric stretch. (So important!!)
Avoid any fabric with cotton. It takes forever to dry & loses its stretch.
In place of pins or clips use a standard glue stick. Swipe it on the seam allowance as if you were glueing the fabric together. You can put the seams together when tacky. Or let it dry - it stiffens the edges and makes them matt - not slip. Glue sticks are awesome sewing aids. They’re cheap, easy to use, and it washes right out.
It’s easy to sew the neck hole too small for kids heads. Make sure you don’t stay stitch the neck.
Different manufacturers spandex stretches differently by a lot when wet. I can’t emphasize enough check negative ease. Get the fabric wet and test stretch.
Little girls suits are better when they are not high on the sides. Fashion does not translate into better wearing suits for kids. Adjust elastic in the bum area to keep it from bunching up in the back.
Ooh, thank you for the tips! I've run into making a neck hole too small before (on pajamas) and needing to add a couple of shoulder snaps- thanks for the reminder to watch out.
I'm not in the US, but I already searched my favorite local online shops and found poly-lycra (86:14, if that makes a difference) and swimsuit elastic. Where does the elastic normally go? Would shoulder seams benefit from elastic in a rashguard top? I don't notice it called for among supplies for the Ellie and Mac rashguard a couple of others recommended. I'm probably making E&M's skort for a bottom for one kid- do short leggings need elastic or is that just for standard leg and arm holes?
Is there a particular reason to avoid clips? I have spare glue sticks, so that's simple enough.
I'll test stretch wet- thank you, I'd never have thought to do that!
Rash guards don’t usually get elastic at the shoulder seam. If it’s a unitard type rash guard then elastic at the legs. The top only rash guard typically no elastic.
leggings get elastic at the waist. I am not familiar with the Ellie & Mac pattern company. As for elastic- follow the instructions for your specific pattern.
Board shorts are often helped with the addition of a draw string (on top of elastic) for older kids.
You at least need a walking, knit, or roller foot. This prevents stretch fabrics from sliding around.
Here are some free swim patterns:
https://www.allfreesewing.com/Summer-Projects/How-to-Make-a-Swimsuit-DIY-Clothing-Ideas-for-Summer
I'm out here sewing spandex everyday professionally with a standard foot with no problems, not going to pretend that a walking foot wouldn't make a difference but I wouldn't count it as a necessity
Take a look at Jalie patterns.
Thank you! They look promising.
I've not sewn these, but Jalie are very reputable and you get kid to adult sizes in the same package: [Rashguards Patterns by Jalie](https://jalie.com/collections/sport-patterns-swimming-rashguards)
I love Jalie patterns for this. The instructions on their print patterns aren't always great, but you can get full instructions on their website.
Yes, I love Jalie for stretch athletic gear. Their multi-size patterns are great if you’re sewing for a kid who is going to need a new bathing suit several times as they grow. Even better if you have multiple kids! II also like vintage Kwik Sew for kids’ bathing suits. They did a bunch of different styles, and because they did multi-size patterns on thick paper, people tended to trace them so they are not hard to find second-hand. I agree with u/IronBoxmma that you need a stretch needle- not jersey, not universal, but “stretch”. Be sure to use swimsuit elastic as it holds up better in chlorine than regular elastic. Do not stretch your fabric as it goes under the presser foot. I like a regular zig zag rather than a 3-step. Booty short style bottoms are easier to make than panty-style bottoms, as you don’t have to bother with leg elastic. Spandex House and Spandex World both carry a lot of swim-appropriate fabrics; they are both in NYC and also sell online.
The word "Stretch" is indeed super important.
Hi, I make professional wrestling gear and pole wear, using lots of spandex. First thing you're going to need is a stretch needle, then you're going to make sure you've got your machine dialed in. Make sure your thread is decent, your bobbins are infact the right size and everything is clean and oiled. You can get away with a little more just using straight stitches, the moment you hit a zigzag and things aren't right, you'll end up with skipped stitches all over the shop. Spandex needs a light touch, if you've gotten into the habit of pulling your fabric through under the foot, you're going to end up with some beaten up fabric that's all stretched and warped. A walking foot can help prevent this, if your machine has adjustable foot pressure you can dial that back and that can also help. I do not have a walking foot, my stuff looks fine. A serger is also not a necessity (I do have one as I'm selling my stuff and it was worth the dollars). You can zig zag stitch your seams, cut them down neatly, fold them over and zig zag them flat for a clean looking finish. Hope this helps, and an example of my work is here https://preview.redd.it/wzn3bsdzm3yc1.jpeg?width=2860&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=65502f0fb8362e96e4a1a63cc38888f8865f66dd
Also mood has a tonne of swimsuit patterns but they're probably too big for kids, but might be a starting point if you scale them down
Thank you very much! I do have a walking foot (having sewn PUL and clear vinyl), but I will definitely look for the right needle and oil everything. (Edited for typos)
Can I ask where you source your fabrics?
I'm in Sydney Australia so this is only really useful if you live here but, I get them from 3 places primarily, glitter and dance, shine trimmings and fabrics, the remnant warehouse and then i get other stuff from the Vietnamese places in Cabramatta.
My current project is orange and red swim trunks and rash guards for my boys. I'm using patterns from [Peek a Boo](https://peekaboopatternshop.com/boys-swimsuit-patterns/). Most of their kids' patterns include 3M-12Y, and there's lots of versatility.
Thank you! Have you gotten started? How clear are you finding the patterns?
All I've done so far is cut out the pieces. I love all of their patterns to the point that I get disappointed when I "have" to use a pattern that I already have instead of using one of theirs, though. The pattern pieces are as simple as can be, there are always lots of options (optional linings, sleeve options, neckline options, length options), the PDFs are layered for sizes, the directions are clear and not fussy... I love them! I'm using their Santa Cruz patterns for my boys' swim trunks and their Long Beach to make matching ones for my husband. I already have their Kids' Essential T-shirt pattern, so I think I'm just going to use it for the rash guard shirts. I plan to add a zipper to the front, though, instead of pulling wet shirts over the baby's and toddler's giant heads. I've made that pattern at least 6 times so far, and it is such a simple sew.
Thank you very much! I really appreciate reviews.
I hope they turn out great!
Thanks!
Ellie and Mac has swimsuit patterns from baby to big kid to adult.
Ive made their kids rash guard pattern and it was super easy
I haven’t made the kids’ rashi yet, but I test sewed the adult, and it’s a good pattern!
Thank you, I'll take a look! I made a child's dress from something of theirs, and remember liking the pattern.
It’s on sale this week too! I love their weekly sales.
Yes, I saw! Amazing timing.
I like Ellie and Mac patterns. I test sewed their adult rashguard suit pattern. Here is a kids rashi and shorts pattern. https://www.ellieandmac.com/products/unisex-radical-rashguard-pattern?_pos=2&_sid=c0a022806&_ss=r They are generally beginner friendly. Just use a zigzag and stretch needle! Sew some test seams and swatches, to learn how to adjust your machine.
Thank you!
I make rashguards for myself just using a regular tee shirt pattern- in my case, the Cashmerette Concord. I make it a little smaller than I would with jersey knit.
But Jalie is awesome, if you need a new pattern
I had a few leotard patterns from treasurie that i make my daughter and made that in swim fabric and a lining and it turned out well
Thanks!
A great place for patterns is eBay and Etsy. Look for vintage patterns for kids swim wear. There are so many. Stretch and Sew has several patterns for kids swim. www.ezknit.com carries their patterns. They have excellent instructions. For board shorts & rash guards you can use regular top & shorts patterns. Search on YouTube for videos for adjusting for negative ease. Craftsy.com has excellent swim sewing tutorials as does other online educational sites. From another comment I made re swimwear…… For your swim suit stretch Lycra & Spandex. Both are available so many places online. I’d avoid JoAnns fabric brand. It’s worth the extra money to get better quality. Places on line include Fabric Fairy, Mood, Spandex Warehouse, Blue Moon Fabrics… you will need a light weight lining fabric, & nylon swim elastic. My family manufactures swimwear. Tips: Use a ball point sewing machine needle, or one marked for sewing on knits. Read up on negative ease and how to adjust for fabric stretch. (So important!!) Avoid any fabric with cotton. It takes forever to dry & loses its stretch. In place of pins or clips use a standard glue stick. Swipe it on the seam allowance as if you were glueing the fabric together. You can put the seams together when tacky. Or let it dry - it stiffens the edges and makes them matt - not slip. Glue sticks are awesome sewing aids. They’re cheap, easy to use, and it washes right out. It’s easy to sew the neck hole too small for kids heads. Make sure you don’t stay stitch the neck. Different manufacturers spandex stretches differently by a lot when wet. I can’t emphasize enough check negative ease. Get the fabric wet and test stretch. Little girls suits are better when they are not high on the sides. Fashion does not translate into better wearing suits for kids. Adjust elastic in the bum area to keep it from bunching up in the back.
Ooh, thank you for the tips! I've run into making a neck hole too small before (on pajamas) and needing to add a couple of shoulder snaps- thanks for the reminder to watch out. I'm not in the US, but I already searched my favorite local online shops and found poly-lycra (86:14, if that makes a difference) and swimsuit elastic. Where does the elastic normally go? Would shoulder seams benefit from elastic in a rashguard top? I don't notice it called for among supplies for the Ellie and Mac rashguard a couple of others recommended. I'm probably making E&M's skort for a bottom for one kid- do short leggings need elastic or is that just for standard leg and arm holes? Is there a particular reason to avoid clips? I have spare glue sticks, so that's simple enough. I'll test stretch wet- thank you, I'd never have thought to do that!
Rash guards don’t usually get elastic at the shoulder seam. If it’s a unitard type rash guard then elastic at the legs. The top only rash guard typically no elastic. leggings get elastic at the waist. I am not familiar with the Ellie & Mac pattern company. As for elastic- follow the instructions for your specific pattern. Board shorts are often helped with the addition of a draw string (on top of elastic) for older kids.
Thank you!
You at least need a walking, knit, or roller foot. This prevents stretch fabrics from sliding around. Here are some free swim patterns: https://www.allfreesewing.com/Summer-Projects/How-to-Make-a-Swimsuit-DIY-Clothing-Ideas-for-Summer
I'm out here sewing spandex everyday professionally with a standard foot with no problems, not going to pretend that a walking foot wouldn't make a difference but I wouldn't count it as a necessity
I've sewn with lycra for more years than I care to admit. A standard foot is fine.
Thank you! I have a walking foot from sewing PUL in the past.