Period underwear are becoming more and more common these days as many would like to be more eco-friendly. Period underwear retails at pretty high prices and considering that you need several to get you comfortably through your cycle many are turning to sewing their own. Luckily many sewing pattern designers have period underwear patterns available to meet that need.
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Where To Find Period Underwear Patterns
There are a variety of period underwear options available online. Seamwork offers a free period panty which is awesome. Then there are plenty of free tutorials that guide you on how to make your own period underwear using an existing sewing pattern of your choice. You can use a free underwear sewing pattern as there are many available to complete any of these tutorials. There are also a variety of period underwear sewing patterns for sale too.
Shop Fabric and Supplies for Period Underwear Here
Full List of Period Underwear Patterns (Free, Tutorials, Paid Patterns)
Below you will find a comprehensive list of period underwear sewing patterns. I scoured the internet in search of any and all patterns, tutorials and kits to help you sew your very first pair of period underwear or if you have already sewn period underwear maybe you are looking to replenish your stock!
Free Period Underwear Patterns
Flo by Seamwork
- Level: Advanced Beginner
- Size: 00-26
- Format: Downloadable digital pattern
- Fabric and Supplies: Lightweight to medium weight knit fabric, fold over elastic, PUL fabric, ZORB fabric, wicking fabric, fabric clips
Description:
Seamwork’s Flo underwear sewing pattern was designed in a bikini style. It has a mid-rise fit, grazes your navel and average coverage in the back. Many designer’s have tutorials for how to make their free underwear pattern into period underwear but Seamwork has the full pattern available for free. The Flo sewing pattern can also be used as an everyday underwear if you remove the absorbent fabrics. This period underwear pattern is meant to be a scrap buster with the intention of producing less waste for our planet.
Bonus Free Sewing Pattern!
Free Storage Pouch for your reusable pads or underwear by Jalie
Need a free underwear pattern? Use this list here.
Free Period Underwear Sewing Tutorials
How to Sew Period Underwear by Seamwork
- Level: Advanced Beginner
- Size: Depends on the underwear pattern of choice
- Format: Depends on the underwear pattern of choice (Reno, Dana and Geneva by Seamwork are used in this tutorial)
- Fabric and Supplies: Lightweight to medium weight knit fabric, lingerie elastic, PUL fabric, ZORB fabric, wicking fabric, fabric clips
Description:
If you are curious about how the whole process of actually sewing up period underwear works this is a fantastic read. This article will guide you through pattern adjustments for Reno, Dana and Geneva (all Seamwork sewing patterns) as well as sewing instructions for 3 types of period underwear- heavy days, medium days and light days. You will have a better understanding of absorbent fabrics such as PUL and ZORB including what type of fabric is safe for skin contact and what is not. This article also shares great information on how to care for your new underwear including how to wash and dry and tips on how long you should wear your underwear. Seamwork also encourages you to use main fabrics from your knit scraps in an effort to be more environmentally conscious and for that very reason has written this article in an effort to lessen the waste from pads and tampons in landfills. If you are curious about whether you would like to sew a pair of period underwear this is a great read that can certainly help you make a decision.
How to Make Reusable Period Underwear by Spoonflower
- Level: Advanced Beginner
- Size: Depends on the underwear pattern of choice
- Format: Depends on the underwear pattern of choice (Stevie Knickers pattern by Paper Theory is used in this tutorial)
- Fabric and Supplies: Cotton spandex jersey, lingerie elastic, PUL fabric, ZORB fabric, wicking fabric, fabric clips
Description:
Spoonflower’s How to Make Reusable Period Underwear offers a great rundown of the whole process in a quick and easy way to digest even for a beginner sewist. It was written by Spoonflower Ambassador, Rumana who opened up about her use of period underwear and menstrual cups on social media. This tutorial is meant to teach you how to transform any underwear sewing pattern into a reusable period underwear. Rumana uses the Stevie Knickers pattern by Paper Theory which is a free download for Paper Theory email subscribers. In this tutorial, you will find an easy to follow pattern adjustment that you can translate to any other underwear sewing pattern. Useful sewing tips are also provided for a successful completion of this project!
How to Make Your Own Period Underwear by Tilly and the Buttons (Using the Iris Knickers sewing pattern by Evie La Luve)
- Level: Advanced Beginner
- Size: UK 6-34, US 2-30, EUR 34-62, AUS 6-34
- Format: PDF and printed available – Iris Knickers by Evie La Luve
- Fabric and Supplies: Quilted bamboo Zorb, Cotton Zorb, Bamboo/cotton/hemp fleece or microfibre/bamboo/cotton terry toweling, Prosoft Bamboo Fleece PUL, moisture-wicking jersey mesh fabric (crotch lining), cotton spandex jersey (main), FOE, stretch lace trim for waistband
Description:
Tilly and the Buttons with the help of Hannah Bullivant of Evie La Luve put together a thorough two-part tutorial on how to sew your own period underwear using Evie La Luve’s Iris Knickers sewing pattern. This tutorial is broken down by Part 1: Fabric and Alterations and Part 2: Cutting Your Fabric and Sewing. Fabric and Alterations will explain the necessary fabrics needed for proper absorbency as well as how to prepare those fabrics such as appropriate washing and drying. Next, Hannah details how to alter the Iris sewing pattern to your specific needs. In Part 2, Hannah details tips for how to cut and handle absorbency fabrics then she moves onto how to properly sew your gusset with hidden seam lines at the front and back of the crotch. She includes a lot of useful tips for sewing and maintaining your new underwear!
DIY Period Panties by Sophie Hines
- Level: Advanced Beginner
- Size: Depends on the underwear pattern of choice
- Format: Depends on the underwear pattern of choice (Arrcos Undies by Sophie Hines is used in this tutorial)
- Fabric and Supplies: Full Period Panty Kit or Mini Period Panty Kit by Sophie Hines
Description:
Sophie Hines put together a series of 5 articles called the “Period Panty Sewing School” to get you started on sewing your new period underwear just right! Here is a breakdown of each article:
A thorough explanation of what period panties are then she deep dives into her period panty sewing kits – the colorways, the fabrics and their purpose. Next, is the type of pattern you should use. She recommends the Arccos Undies because they are her favorite. She will use this pattern throughout the other tutorial articles; however, you can use whatever pattern makes you comfortable.
2. Enclosed Crotch Adjustment:
In this article of the “Period Panty Sewing School”, Sophie explains what makes a good period panty pattern- which is an enclosed crotch. She goes further to show you a pattern adjustment in case you are using a sewing pattern that doesn’t have an enclosed crotch.
Next up, you will learn how to lengthen the crotch in the front, back or both and/or change the shape of the crotch pattern piece. This article comes in handy if you are planning on making period underwear for medium, heavy and nighttime flow. All of this depends on your specific cycle.
In this article, Sophie covers pre-washing tips and cutting information and tips. She uses the materials from her period panty sewing kits. You will find the same materials in this kit as recommended in other tutorials. What makes it great is you do not need to source materials from a variety of places plus all the colors already match.
5. Sewing:
Lastly, Sophie details sewing instructions including some great tips and tricks to sew the perfect pair of period underwear. She also mentions that she will add an article that helps you sew folder elastic and a mesh waistband to help with cramping. As well as a care and washing guide.
Making Cute Period Panties! By Thrifty Innovations – Teysha’s Creations
- Level: Advanced Beginner
- Size: Depends on the underwear pattern of choice
- Format: Depends on the underwear pattern of choice (SUAT Scrundies pattern used in this tutorial)
- Fabric and Supplies: Shobf for core (heavy fleece), athletic wicking fabric for the top, PUL for the pad back.
Description:
This is a quick and easy tutorial that shows you how to make a period pad from an existing pad of your choice and sew into your favorite underwear sewing pattern. Tips are given on how to adjust the pad pattern to fit your specific sewing pattern as well as tips on sewing to avoid weakening the fabric.
Period Underwear Patterns (Paid)
Moontide Period Pants Pattern by Sew Projects
- Level: Confident Beginner
- Size: 9 sizes
- Format: PDF instant download
- Fabric and Supplies: Main: Organic cotton jersey, cotton jersey, bamboo jersey or hemp jersey with 50% stretch; Gusset: Zorb, terry toweling, PUL, bamboo jersey, polyester pro cool; Notions: Foldover elastic.
Description:
The Moontide Period Panty is a bikini style underwear that sits on the low hip with a regular leg-opening and full bottom coverage. It comes with six different gusset versions including two winged gussets. This pattern is great for anytime time during your cycle. The booklet is extremely detailed to help you successfully sew several period underwear. For more details on the pattern the designer has put together some youtube videos. Also, check out their period sewing kit!
Sarah Period Underwear and Reusable Pads by Jalie
- Level: Advanced Beginner
- Size: PDF: kids 2 to adults 5X Paper: kids 2 to adults 2x
- Format: PDF instant download or paper
- Fabric and Supplies: Knit fabric with 50% stretch, PUL, Zorb, wicking fabric for lining
Description:
The Sarah Period Underwear and Reusable Pads pattern comes in 28 sizes and in English and French. This pattern can be made with a high waist or a low waist and day or night protection. The reusable pads can be worn with your regular underwear. They feature wings and snaps to hold in place. Jalie also has a video tutorial for both the reusable pads and the period underwear to make sewing this pattern simple. One more bonus is they offer a free storage bag pattern and tutorial to store your pads or underwear.
Click here to get the Free Storage Pouch by Jalie.
Waratuh Undies & Period Undies Sewing Pattern by Muna and Broad
- Level: Ranked at 2/5
- Size: Waist: 36”-60”, Hip: 41.5”-71.5”
- Format: PDF instant download
- Fabric and Supplies: Underwear: cotton/spandex, bamboo/spandex or merino/spandex; Pad: wicking fabric – merino or sport polyester, absorbent fabric – ZordTM, toweling, flannelette, barrier fabric – PUL, Gore-TexTM, any other waterproof membrane.
Description:
The Waratuh Undies and Period Undies are designed for larger figures. They are a full coverage underwear that sit at the belly button with a slightly higher back rise. The gusset is also wider and the pad is large suitable for day or night protection. The absorbency can be customized. You also have a choice of using fold over elastic or picot elastic for the leg openings and fold over elastic for the waistband for comfort. Muna and Broad also provide four video tutorials including sewing your underwear, sewing your period underwear, choosing elastic and choosing fabric for this pattern.
Bundle Basic Underwear & Cloth Pads Sewing Patterns by Rebecca Page
- Level: Beginner
- Size: Women’s sizes 1-10 and Women’s Curvy sizes 6C-15C (See their sizing chart for exact body measurements)
- Format: PDF Instant download
- Fabric and Supplies: Underwear- Stretch knit fabric; Topper – moisture-wicking fabric, Core- absorbent material, Waterproof barrier plus wet bag, Back – Waterproof fabric; Plastic snap fastenings; Elastic
Description:
The Basic Underwear sewing pattern by Rebecca Page comes in three rise options with full bottom coverage. These are not period underwear but they are designed with the use of cloth period pads in mind which is included in this pattern bundle. You can mix and match any of the Basic Underwear styles with the cloth period pads that come in 6 sizes. These cloth pads are secured with a snap fastener or velcro for a secure fit. This pattern bundle also comes with a wet bag pattern to conveniently store your cloth pads for washing.
Lounge & Lace Collection- Youth Luna Leakproof Briefs by Made for Mermaids
Lounge & Lace Collection- Women’s Luna Leakproof Pattern
- Level: Confident Beginner
- Size: Youth: 9-12 months to 14; Women: Natural waist: 23”-57” or 58.4-134.6 cm, High hip: 29”-63” or 73.6-160cm, Full hip: 34”-64” or 86.3-163.5 cm
- Format: PDF instant download
- Fabric and Supplies: Main fabrics- cotton lycra, ribbed knit, bamboo with 40% stretch; Lining- moisture-wicking jersey with 40% stretch; Innerlining- absorbent quilted or dimple cotton/bamboo or French Terry (several layers) with at least 30% stretch; Waterproof backed jersey or Stretch PUL with at least 30% stretch; Band- Cotton lycra or ribbing with at least 50% stretch and 5% lycra. Notions: 3/8” clear elastic or 3/8” swim elastic.
Description:
Made for Mermaids has two options for their period panties- one for youth and one for women. The Luna pattern is not only for period underwear, it is also useful for potty training. This brief pattern features a full coverage bottom and a mid-rise that hits below the belly button. This pattern has a panel on the front and back and can be sewn without the leakproof option. The level of absorbency can be adjusted to your needs. Finally it is finished with a band on the waist. Made for mermaids also provides two time-lapse videos to help you sew you new underwear.
Red Queen Period Panties Sewing Pattern PDF by Developpe Dancewear
- Level: Confident Beginner
- Size: Youth 8-14, Women 8-16
- Format: PDF Instant Download
- Fabric and Supplies: Not listed
Description:
This pair of period underwear was designed just for dancers. They feature a high hip cut and minimal seams for discretion even while wearing very high cut leotards or other dancewear. The waistband lands just under the belly button for maximum comfort. It also has a longline gusset for absorption if wearing by itself. This pair of period underwear can also be worn with a menstrual cup or tampon if preferred. There is a step-by-step guide with pictures to help you sew this pair of underwear as well. This is also a very affordable pdf pattern coming in at just $5.
MyFit Underwear by Apostrophe Patterns
- Level: Beginner
- Size: This pattern is designed for 7 body measurements with female and kids body types in mind. It can be used for adults, kids, babies, dolls and stuffed animals as well.
- Format: PDF Instant Download
- Fabric and Supplies: Knit or woven fabric with or without stretch.
Description:
The MyFit Underwear sewing pattern is a unique product in that the pattern automatically generates based on your specific measurements. This allows you to design as many underwear variations as you would like within the options available. You are able to chose the rise, the outseam and the gusset and width and length. You will always be able to access your pattern too so no worries if your size changes or maybe you want to make some underwear for a friend. This underwear comes with six coverage options and multiple elastic variations for the waistband and leg openings. Best of all you can adapt this pattern for period underwear or potty training.
Period Underwear Sewing Kits
Want to make sewing a pair of Period Underwear easier? Check out these period underwear sewing kits:
Sophie Hines – Ready to Ship Kits
Bra Builders – Period Panty Kits
Sew Projects – Period Panty Kits
Studio Costura Shop – Period Panty Kits and Supplies
Hopefully this list will help you on your period underwear sewing journey! There is plenty to choose from and lots of inspiration to make a cute and comfy pair of period underwear. If you need further guidance on finding a free underwear sewing pattern you can refer to my article on the Top 13+ Free Underwear Patterns right here.
Shop Other Fabric and Supplies for Underwear Here
- At First Blush Fabric & Supplies Recommendations
- The Bra Makery
- Costura Secret Shop
- Stitch Love Studio
- Emerald Erin Inc
- Tailor Made Shop