Kids' Swim Shorts
In this class, I’ll show you how to sew fitted swim shorts for boys with a step-by-step video tutorial. Pattern included for ages 2 to 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 close-fitting children’s swim shorts with lining, an elasticized waist, and an optional drawstring detail. The streamlined shape is suited to the beach, pool, or river.
Complete the set with a hooded towel poncho or anti-sand beach backpack.
For an adult project, see the Violet women’s bikini or open-back swimsuit.
What you’ll learn in this class
- Test stretch needles, stitches, and presser feet on Lycra.
- Keep the Lycra and lining aligned while sewing.
- Assemble the side and crotch seams with stretch finishes.
- Join, quarter, and distribute the waist elastic evenly.
- Stabilize optional buttonholes for the decorative cord.
- Finish the waist and legs with stretch-compatible stitching.
Fabric and supplies
Use swimwear Lycra, swimwear lining, and rubber swimwear elastic. The class recommends lining at least the front when the outer fabric is pale or transparent.
Test a Jersey, Stretch, Lycra, or Super Stretch needle on a layered scrap. A Teflon foot or painter’s tape beneath a standard foot may improve feeding.
Make it your own
The drawstring and its buttonholes are decorative and may be omitted. If included, removable or water-soluble interfacing supports the Lycra while you sew the buttonholes.
Use a stretch twin needle for parallel topstitching, or finish the hems with a zigzag or another elastic stitch available on your machine.
Sizing
The included pattern runs from ages 2–3 through 12–13.
The class focuses on the tests and stretch-compatible techniques that make Lycra, lining, elastic, buttonholes, and hems easier to manage.
Pattern & materials
Patterns are included with membership
Active members can download every available PDF and materials list.
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