Top 25 Free Swimsuit Sewing Patterns & DIY Tutorials

Free Swimsuit Sewing Patterns

Hey Lingerie Makers!

Summer is just around the corner and after summer of 2020 I’m ready to take out my swimsuit for summer of 2021.  If you haven’t tried your hand at sewing swimwear this is the perfect time to get started.  Swimwear is daunting like lingerie but you will find that there are many similarities and likely you will be just as satisfied to complete a swimwear sewing pattern as you are a bra or underwear sewing pattern.  Looking for a swimsuit sewing pattern but not sure where to start check out my extensive list of FREE swimsuit sewing patterns below!

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Where can I find free Swimsuit sewing patterns?

There are a variety of designers, bloggers, and DIYers who have so generously provided free swimsuit patterns and tutorials for all sorts of bathing suit styles. They have put a tremendous amount of work into providing the sewing community with great content completely free. I have found over 25 FREE swimsuit patterns and tutorials from over 20 designers, bloggers and DIYers from all over the internet.

Who knew so many designers offered free swimsuit sewing patterns? There are great paid swimsuit sewing patterns as well from designers such as Closet Case Patterns, Seamwork, and Evie la Luve but that’s for another article! Let’s find the right free swimsuit sewing pattern for you!

Recommended Fabrics and Materials 

Need some help finding you materials? Scroll to the bottom of the article to find some of my recommendations so you can get started sewing your free swimsuit pattern!

Top 25 Free Swimsuit Sewing Patterns

free swimsuit pattern

Description: The Sherwood Swimsuit from Mood Fabrics is a one-piece bathing suit with a subtle peekaboo design on the right ribcage.  It features a side-tie design element down the right side of the swimsuit giving it a high-end look especially with the grommet finish. The one shoulder design and the full coverage bottom provide a flattering silhouette for any body type. 

What other sewists are saying: The Sherwood Swimsuit pattern has received great feedback from sewists online.  They love that even though it is strongly encouraged to use a serger you can still sew this swimsuit with your trusty zigzag stitch setting on your regular sewing machine.  You can even use the mock overlock stitch that is featured on some sewing machines. A couple of sewists mentioned they made this swimsuit without the grommets and had good results. Just remember to account for your plackets if you go this route as suggested by the designer.

  • Title: The Reed Swimsuit from Mood Fabrics
  • Level: Advanced Beginner for top and Beginner for bikini bottom
  • Sizes: 2-30
  • Format: PDF download

Description: The Reed Swimsuit from Mood Fabrics is a two-piece bikini with a retro vibe.  It features cute design elements such as a puff sleeve and twist off front top perfect for any 1950s inspired swimwear design.  This flattering silhouette features an easy to sew high-waisted bikini bottom for great coverage. The Reed Swimsuit is a fun design great for retro lovers and flattering for many body types.

What other sewists are saying: The Reed Swimsuit has received great feedback from sewists online.  They love the design but found that the bikini top needs additional reinforcements so it doesn’t slide up revealing your boobs. They suggest inserting swim cups, cinching in the back of the bikini top or adding elastic to the bottom of the cup area.  Try a combination of these suggestions based on your body type and comfort level.  The last thing you want is for your swim top to roll up and display the girls! This swimsuit sewing pattern recommends a serger sewing machine as well but you can still sew this swimsuit with your trusty zigzag stitch setting on your regular sewing machine.  You can even use the mock overlock stitch that is featured on some sewing machines.

Description: The Cordia High-Waisted Swimsuit from Mood Fabrics is a flattering fit for almost every body type.  It is stylish, comfortable and modest. It features a halter neckline and multiple cup sizes to fit your needs! It is a flattering silhouette with attractive style lines. I especially like the bottom – high-waisted boy shorts that make it so you don’t feel like you have to run for your cover-up because your bikini bottoms are riding up.

What other sewists are saying: The Cordia High-Waisted Swimsuit had a really great reception when it was released.  Many sewists were excited to sew this pattern.  They also loved the fabric and design that Mood selected. The opportunity to use different colors and prints with the panel design is a plus for experimenting and makes this a fun swimsuit pattern to sew and wear.

  • Title: The Abelia Swimsuit from Mood Fabrics
  • Level: Intermediate
  • Sizes: 2-30
  • Format: PDF download

Description: You won’t find another pattern like this one – especially for free!  This Abelia Swimsuit sewing pattern from Mood Fabrics is a much needed long-sleeve swimsuit pattern that is not only functional but cute! This swimsuit is perfect for people who sunburn easily or need a rash guard to protect their sensitive skin. The designer even suggests using this pattern as a bodysuit for the offseason which I think is a fantastic idea. Otherwise if you want to flex your sewing skills this pattern features a front zipper opening, piping, paneling, scalloped edges and a tall collar.  That’s some great sewing!

What other sewists are saying: Sewists are loving this pattern!  It is no surprise as to why- they find it to be a quality pattern, they love that its free and its versatile.  Most importantly it’s a fun and flattering pattern that makes you feel at ease and stylish while enjoying the beach and soaking in the sun. 

Description: No serger needed for this pattern! This is a cute, quick sewing pattern great for first time swimwear sewists.  The Phoenix from Mood Fabrics is a one piece full bottom coverage swimsuit with a cute and stylish long ruffle over the bust adding a bit of elegance to your beach vacation. The most complex this sewing pattern will get is a French seam which is great for beginner sewists to learn. The Phoenix swimsuit pattern translates well into a form-fitting body suit as well.

What other sewists are saying: Sewists are loving the simplicity yet elegance of this swimsuit pattern. They love that they don’t need to own an expensive serger sewing machine to create a beautiful and functional swimsuit.  They also like that it is versatile enough to add in a shelf bra for extra support. 

Description: If you are in a jam and need a bikini pronto this tutorial from The Sorry Girls is for you!  Do you have an old bikini bottom? Well you can style that bottom into a halter top with a few cuts and stitches – 2 cuts and 1 stitch to be exact and viola you have a halter top.  Not sure if you want to go the halter top route…? Try the scalloped edge bandeau bikini.  You will need some tricot fabrics and swim cups from an old swim suit. This is where you get your DIY juices flowing.  You will need to draw out the scalloped edge and band on the fabric then cut out.  This bandeau DIY features an easy way to insert swim cups and and a cute gathered detail at the front.

What other sewists are saying: These DIY Bikinis from the Sorry Girls received awesome feedback from their followers. Almost 300 comments on their youtube video with DIYers raving about how much they want to try this or how they loved the results.  If you have the supplies on hand or love the design and have a bit of time this is a great DIY swimwear tutorial.

  • Title: Bikini Triangle Top Pattern from Sirena Patterns (This free pattern is no longer available but you can take a look at their shop for paid patterns using this link: www.sirenapatterns.com)
  • Level: Beginner
  • Sizes: XS-XL
  • Format: PDF download

Description: The Free Bikini Triangle Top sewing pattern is a classic bikini look.  This sewing pattern was thoughtfully created with thorough instructions.  This bikini features a triangle shaped bust, swim cup inserts, corded strap ends, and string ties for around the ribcage and the shoulder straps that finish the bikini off as a halter. Sirena Patterns put together a great tutorial with clear photos and recommendations.

What other sewists are saying: Sewists were excited to try out this free bikini pattern from Sirena Patterns.  They felt the directions were easy to follow and the pictures were very clear.  The only issue that several people have is the pattern did not download right away but the owner of Sirena Patterns remedied that immediately.  If you have trouble downloading this pattern just email info@sirenapatterns.com.

Description: Wow talk about one of the most stylish and easy DIY bikini tops I have ever seen!  This bandage bikini truly looks high end but it is made with some stretch fabric such as tricot and optional swim cup inserts and a few stitched seams.  I highly recommend you try this bandage bikini top – you will be super satisfied with yourself and the results.  Grab some tricot fabric in the color of your choice and a pair of swim cups- you can sew this up in 30 minutes or less. Enjoy!

What other sewists are saying: This is a very popular DIY tutorial but unfortunately there are no comments from DIYers on the website however The Creative Fashion Blog is a well known DIY fashion site with tons of great information. I doubt you could go wrong with this DIY tutorial. 

Recommended Fabrics and Materials: 

Need some help finding you materials? Scroll to the bottom of the article to find some of my recommendations so you can get started sewing your free swimsuit pattern!

Description: The Spruce Crafts delivers an awesome tutorial for a great swimsuit design.  This DIY Swimsuit is a two-piece halter top with string back closure and a full coverage bikini bottom.  The tutorial teaches you how to sew stretchy fabric such as tricots and power mesh using a regular sewing machine and the stretch zigzag stitch setting. The tutorial uses the tracing a flattering pair of underwear technique to make a pattern for your bottom piece therefore you can make this DIY swimsuit into any style of swimsuit bottom you would like. The top is two large triangle pieces that you draw out yourself depending on your cup width.  This is a super simple and straightforward DIY tutorial. Definitely a great swimsuit to add your beach wardrobe!

What other sewists are saying: If you have tried this DIY swimsuit pattern give it a shout out!  It seems to me like a great project for a beginner.  It has awesome techniques to help you not only understand swimwear and lingerie but more importantly how to sew with stretchy fabrics – especially without a serger.  Hopefully you give it a try!

Description: The Sewing Rabbit has done it again with a combo free bikini pattern and DIY Halter Swim Top. This is a really fun and flattering pattern. I love the high-waisted ruched bikini bottom especially for the post-baby tummy.  This free pattern and tutorial features gathered seams on the bikini with a defined waist-line, a full coverage halter top with a tie top and back closure.  You can really experiment with this pattern – I especially love how Jessica used a printed bottom with a complimentary solid color top.  

What other sewists are saying: This free bikini pattern and DIY halter tutorial had lots of great feedback.  Jessica’s followers were enthusiastic to try it and and loved how flattering it was on her.  If you have tried this pattern out let me know what your experience was and if you would recommend it to another sewist.  In my opinion, it looks cute, stylish and super flattering. 

Description: This Twist and Tie Bikini Top from Etcetorize is not only very straightforward but it is flattering too! This swim top is in the halter style with a tie off neck and back closure. Tamara tells you exactly how to measure for your bust size and provides great photos and instructions. I love the ruching from the twist over the bust.  It compliments the bust line by giving it some curve. Tamara suggests using Kwik Sew Pattern 1286 for complimentary bikini as well.

What other sewists are saying: Etcetorize blog followers appreciated this cute and flattering design.  I am not sure if they have sewn it so if you have given this DIY tutorial a try let me know so we can inform our sewing community.  Looks like a fun and straightforward swimsuit pattern in my opinion with some great sewing techniques to be learned.

  • Title: Elsa Swimsuit from Ralph Pink
  • Level: Intermediate
  • Sizes: UK 8/10
  • Format: PDF download

Description: The Elsa Swimsuit comes from the UK sewing pattern designer Ralph Pink.  This is a classic vintage design that lends itself to experimentation.  As a base pattern is features a long torso line and low-rise hip.  It’s a flattering design that features darts at the bust line for shape and fit.  The designer suggests adding ruffles to the hips or a thin belt to complete the vintage aesthetic.  You can also easily color-block with this swimsuit pattern for a more modern vibe. It is important to note that this pattern does not come with any instructions so it is imperative you have some knowledge of garment construction before you dive in. I wouldn’t want you to cut out your fabric and realize you have no instructions to follow.

What other sewists are saying: If you have tried the Elsa Swimsuit sewing pattern then please give it a shout out.  I would love to hear your feedback.  By the looks of it it seems like a really flattering design with some great techniques to add to your sewing construction knowledge toolbox. 

  • Title: Tamara Swimsuit from Ralph Pink
  • Level: Intermediate
  • Sizes: UK 8/10
  • Format: PDF download

Description: The Tamara Swimsuit comes to us from UK sewing pattern designer Ralph Pink.  This swimsuit sewing pattern is a one-piece strapless suit with a boob tube neckline. It has two side seams and a seamless front and back bodice lending itself to design experimentation.  The designer suggests adding some color-block panels or spaghetti straps to complete the look. It is important to note that this pattern does not come with any instructions so it is imperative you have some knowledge of garment construction before you dive in. I wouldn’t want you to cut out your fabric and realize you have no instructions to follow.

What other sewists are saying: If you have tried the Tamara Swimsuit sewing pattern then please give it a shout out.  I would love to hear your feedback.  By the looks of it it seems like a really flattering design with some great techniques to add to your sewing construction knowledge toolbox.

  • Title: Basic Swimsuit from Ralph Pink
  • Level: Intermediate
  • Sizes: UK 8/10
  • Format: PDF download

Description: The Basic Swimsuit comes to us from Ralph Pink in the UK.  This pattern was developed as a basic block to use for creating a variety of swimsuit sewing patterns.  It features princess seams down the front and back bodice as well as wide straps.  This basic swimsuit block lends itself to experimenting with paneling on the bodice, different strap widths and a variety of neckline styles. 

What other sewists are saying: If you have tried the Basic Swimsuit sewing pattern then please give it a shout out.  I would love to hear your feedback.  By the looks of it it seems like a really flattering design with some great techniques to add to your sewing construction knowledge toolbox.

Description: I really had fun reading through this Vintage Style High-Waist Bikini tutorial. This tutorial comes to us from Holly Mann who created this free pattern and lovely tutorial on instructables.com.  I love the authentic vintage style of this pattern.  This swimsuit bottom features two ways of styling while both include a high-waist you can choose to panel and ruche the sides or leave the traditional side seam while adding some ruffles to the leg-openings. You even get some great sewing techniques for using elastic in your swimsuit which can translate to so many other sewing projects. Holly also helps you adjust for fit and size since this pattern comes in only a small but she is thorough in her instructions so fear not.  Lastly, Holly adds a quick DIY tutorial to the end that roughly guides you on how to make a bikini top. It looks really fun and worth a try to get that full vintage bikini look.

What other sewists are saying: Sewists are truly loving this pattern! You’ll find lots of great feedback and finished photos for this pattern on the Instructables web site.  The design is a hit with all age ranges and sewists were really pleased with the detailed instructions and photos.  This is a beautiful swimsuit and perfect for vintage lovers. 

Description: What an incredibly informative tutorial that spans over several blog posts and on top of that just a fun read! The Pin Up Bathing Suit is a one-piece swimsuit featuring gathered side seams for a form flattering figure, contoured bust line with a front tie style detail and wide straps for extra support. It is vintage – pin up girl inspired but modest and functional. If you really want to flex your pattern drafting and sewing skills this is a wonderful tutorial with an awesome end result.

What other sewists are saying: Amanda’s followers loved this tutorial and were inspired to try it out.  They shared their finished swimsuits on her Flickr group. Many agreed they loved the design and appreciated how thorough Amanda was in sharing all the steps for this lovely project.  If this is the swimsuit for you then get ready to learn or polish those sewing skills because this one is full of great techniques to add to your sewing toolbox.

Recommended Fabrics and Materials: 

Need some help finding you materials? Scroll to the bottom of the article to find some of my recommendations so you can get started sewing your free swimsuit pattern!

Description: Looking for a modest yet stylish retro tankini?  You are in luck – this instructables.com tutorial by Alanna Erm is a straightforward swim suit design.  She tells you exactly how to measure yourself for the perfect fit and lays out the simple sewing instructions that will lead to a very quick sew. This retro tankini is the top swim piece but it falls around mid thigh so you will still need a bikini bottom to complete the swim suit. It features a gathered side seam, contoured bust line with tie front and a halter tie closure around the neck. It falls mid back and is super stylish all the while comfortable for a day at the beach or pool. 

What other sewists are saying: If you have tried the Easy Retro Tankini tutorial then please give it a shout out.  I would love to hear your feedback.  By the looks of it it seems like a really flattering design with some great techniques to add to your sewing construction knowledge toolbox.

Description: This is a really cool tutorial with a modern vibe.  You start by tracing off an old pair of bikini bottoms to make your swimsuit bottom.  The instructions and photos are very straightforward and easy to follow.  Lizzie also makes note that you can add elastic to the bikini for a snug fit. Then you have 3 different swim top styles – the bikini top, the tankini, and the maternity tankini.  All super cute and flattering and straightforward to make. The bikini top is a bandeau style then to sew the tankinis you attach the bandeau top to the stomach piece.  This top design features a gathered seam between the bust for contouring and style as well as gathered side seams for a flattering fit.

What other sewists are saying: This tutorial by Lizzie of Cotton and Curls was very well received. Her followers love the design and the ease of the instructions.  They also loved that she designed a flattering maternity style. This design is also a quick sew and the body measuring instructions are very straightforward. Plus the tutorial gives you great tips on how to sew stretchy swim material with a regular sewing machine. 

Description: Looking to flex your sewing and pattern making skills? Then this DIY Bikini project is for you.  This is a thorough tutorial from Sam an instructables.com user that teaches you how to copy an existing bikini top and bottom to create your own. You get to make your own custom pattern, learn about stretchy fabric and learn how to use bra cups. If you do this project you will be ready for the beach or the pool in a classic bikini custom fit just for you!

What other sewists are saying: Sewist recommend adding elastic to the waistband and leg openings especially if you will be wearing this at the pool.  If you want to eliminate elastic then add ties to the sides of the bikini bottom for a snug and accurate fit.  They also recommend using a zigzag stitch instead of the straight stitch recommended in the tutorial. Otherwise, sewists appreciated the detailed tutorial and were looking forward to trying it out. 

Description: I’m loving this easy five step bandeau bikini top tutorial from Smori an instructables.com user. It requires a small amount of fabric that you can either purchase or use scraps so very low cost. The designer also teaches you how to get the right bust measurements for yourself and finally it only has a few stitches that make up the garment.  All the seams are clean and the cut is flattering.  This is a fun project that shouldn’t take you long at all.  

What other sewists are saying: The Twisted Bandeau Bikini Top received a lot of positive feedback from other sewists on instructables.com.  People loved the design and the tutorial.  The only suggestion was to shorten the ties in the back based on personal preference or to eliminate it and sew the back together instead.  All up to the person wearing it though but a great tutorial to experiment and have fun with. 

Description: The Ruffle Bandeau Bikini Top tutorial is a really thoughtful design and thorough instructables.com tutorial from user CraftyRex.  You really get to flex your sewing and crafting skills with this project.  The designer added some details to the bikini top to reinforce the structure and function of the design like a back strap and thin bra cups. You start off by get your proper measurements then creating your pattern, then finally sewing this fun project together.  The final result is a cute, functional and reversible bandeau bikini top perfect for a hot day at the beach or pool. 

What other sewists are saying: Sewists love the design of this bandeau top.  It’s great that it is reversible to give you some variety for your swimwear wardrobe. If you have tried the Ruffle Bandeau Bikini Top tutorial then please give it a shout out.  I would love to hear your feedback.

  • Title: Leia from iampatterns.com
  • Level: Advanced Beginner
  • Sizes: 36-46
  • Format: PDF download

Description: This free PDF download from iampatterns.com is such a cute and stylish design!  It is a classic bikini with a string halter closure for the bikini top and elastic band underneath the bust to secure the fit.  The bottoms are full coverage with a thick elastic waistband that holds the front and back together like a string bikini but with elastic instead. This pattern was designed for a French magazine and is offered online for free to people all over the world. Keep in mind the sizes are European so make sure you understand how they translate to your size if you are more familiar with American sizing.

What other sewists are saying: If you have tried the Leia Bikini pattern then please give it a shout out.  I would love to hear your feedback.  By the looks of it it seems like a really flattering design with some great techniques to add to your sewing construction knowledge toolbox.

Description: Wow! If you check out this page there are a ton of free swimsuit patterns from this designer. Check out the link to see if there is a pattern you are interested in. They are all on one page and can be downloaded directly from the web site. These patterns are really thoughtful and stylish – I am surprised they are all free!  Take a look! There are two-piece swimsuits, full bodysuits, retro and vintage styles and more!

What other sewists are saying: If you have tried any of the Soulmatte Free Swimsuit Patterns then please give it a shout out.  I would love to hear your feedback.  There are so many great designs to chose from and you get to flex your sewing skills while adding some great techniques to your sewing construction knowledge toolbox. 

Description: This is definitely one of the easiest tutorials for a DIY bandeau bikini top available!  This project should only take about 30 minutes and is perfect for a beginner. All you have to do is sew up two tubes then twist them together wrap the tubes around your chest to get the right fit then sew all the open seams together.  Just pick out some fun stretchy swim fabric and get started! You’ll be at the beach in no time!

What other sewists are saying: If you have tried the DIY Bandeau Bikini from Creative Fashion Blog then please give it a shout out.  I would love to hear your feedback.  This seems like a really fun and easy design to not only use for swimwear but lingerie too!

Description: I love all the different design options Tamara from Etcetorize uses to make this custom bandeau bikini top.  This is also another really straightforward and simple tutorial that shouldn’t take long at all to make! You will make your own pattern pieces which consist of a main pattern and the strap. After you finish the seams of the main piece all you need to do is attach the straps then you can choose to twist the bikini or keep it as a regular bandeau. From this point you can add a brooch or tie front.  You can even add halter straps for more support!

What other sewists are saying: This tutorial received lots of positive praise from Etcetorize readers!  People loved how stylish and versatile this bikini top is and not to mention very easy to make!  This seems like a fun design with great sewing techniques. Definitely a must try!

Recommended Fabrics and Materials: 

Need some help finding you materials? Check out these recommendations so you can get started sewing your free swimsuit pattern!

Solid Color Swim Fabric

Mustard UV 50+ Swim Fabric from KnitFabricdotcom on Etsy
Olive SPF 50 Solid Nylon Spandex Swimsuit/Athletic Fabric from MadeWhimsyFabric on Etsy
Aqua SPF 30 Solid Nylon Spandex Swimsuit/Athletic Fabric from MadeWhimsyFabric on Etsy
Spandex/Swimwear fabric – Orange from SwimSupplyShop on Etsy
Black UV 50+ Swim Fabric from KnitFabricdotcom on Etsy

Printed Swim Fabric

Nylon Lycra Spandex Fabric 4 Way Stretch By Yard for swimwear from TELASLYCRACOM on Etsy
Colorful Hearts on Ivory Nylon Spandex Swimsuit Fabric from FlukyFabrics on Etsy
Floral Cayenne Print Lycra Fabric 4 Way Stretch from Ney4Patterns on Etsy
Recycled Swimwear Fabric 1/2 Yard | Irregular Black & White Dots Print from SwimwearNotionsUSA

Swimsuit Liner

Swimsuit liner 4 Way Stretch Yardage Fabric For Swimming from ZanzaDesignsClothing on Etsy

Bust Cups

Stitch Love Studio Bust Cups on Etsy

Swimwear Elastic

Rubber Swimwear Elastic from EmeraldErinBraShop on Etsy
1/4″ (6mm) Rubber Elastic for Swimwear from StitchLoveStudio on Etsy

Cord Ends

Swimwear Strap Cord Ends from SwimwearNotionsUSA on Etsy

Need More Fabric Advice?

Check out my article on how to find the Best Fabrics for Sewing Swimwear!

Conclusion

I hope this list helps you find the free swimsuit sewing pattern you are looking for! There are so many options to choose from. I would suggest choosing based on your sewing skills then expanding from there. I think you’ll have a lot of fun with the patterns and the DIY tutorials alike. Happy Sewing!

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25 Free Swimsuit Patterns