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From: kirin1
Date: 05-08-2007, 11:59 AM (1 of 7)
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Hi, I have a eight year old granddaughter who wants a new swimsuit. I have a problem finding a pattern to make her one. She is overweight and I am not sure if I should use a girl's size pattern or go into the misses? she is bigger around the middle than the top or bottom. Can anyone give me any suggestions? Thanks kirin1 |
User: kirin1
Member since: 04-05-2007 Total posts: 13 |
From: MartySews2
Date: 05-09-2007, 12:29 AM (2 of 7)
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Have you looked at the Kwik Sew book for children? There may be some info on adjusting for plus size children. I think Simplicity also has patterns for plus size children too. I think using an adult pattern would not work very well. The new Threads magazine has an article on making swimsuits that may help you. Marty 
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User: MartySews2
Member since: 05-03-2007 Total posts: 293 
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From: PaulineG
Date: 05-09-2007, 02:52 AM (3 of 7)
I've got that book. Although it doesn't have any patterns for swimsuits  it does give some general suggestions. Firstly it says to choose a pattern for height more so than width. Compare the childs measurements to those stated on the pattern to work out how much width to add. Divide that by 4. Draw a line on the front and the back from the shoulder to the bottom edge (since this is for tops you'd need to extend this to your leg openings) and cut down the pattern pieces. Place the pieces apart by the desired adjustment and add some interfacing or paper to the missing gap (make sure you overlap it so you can tape it together). The only problems I can see with this are that this is an adjustment for tops - it does warn that it might change the shoulder length and sleeve. Since most swimsuits have a narrow strap it might come out looking a bit funny (unless you choose one without a shoulder and with spaghetti straps or halter. The other thing is it will also add width at the top of the thighs. If she is only bigger through the middle this could be a problem.Maybe it's more a matter of choosing the right pattern. I'm sure I've heard mention of a range by Burda - Burda Husky Kids or something. Or go for a two piece swimsuit so you can alter bits individually. It doesn't have to be a bikini - there's lots of styles out there these days. Pauline
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User: PaulineG
Member since: 09-08-2006 Total posts: 901 |
From: PaulineG
Date: 05-09-2007, 03:02 AM (4 of 7)
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Another suggestion would be to try one like this one - view B on the left. Then you go a size up and adjust the bodice length down a bit. You might end up with a little extra in the bottom but not too much. I have that pattern and the ruffle covers a seam between the top and bottom part with a seam up the back of the torso. http://www.trademe.co.nz/Crafts/Sewing/Patterns/Children-babies/photos/a-94950819/p-32521884.htm Pauline
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User: PaulineG
Member since: 09-08-2006 Total posts: 901 |
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 05-09-2007, 07:28 PM (5 of 7)
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The big 3 pattern companies all have childrens patterns for heavier kids now.. They are marked with the size and then a 1/2 after..... They worked well for my GRDau.. Simplicity had the ones she liked the best... She is 10..
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022 
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From: kirin1
Date: 05-10-2007, 07:34 PM (6 of 7)
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Thank You, I will look at these patterns. I know she would like a new swimsuit and I thought It would be nice if she could pick out the fabric for one. Thank You Kirin1 |
User: kirin1
Member since: 04-05-2007 Total posts: 13 |
From: synchromom
Date: 05-11-2007, 09:34 AM (7 of 7)
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I have made alot of swimsuits for my daughter and now for her synchronized swim team. I only will use kwik sew patterns now, they always work for me and the other companies do not. I would try adjusting the width where she needs it and make it up (without the elastic) using inexpensive fabric just to get it perfect. It is worth the extra time, I promise! good luck Life is short, smile and enjoy the ride!
Barb |
User: synchromom
Member since: 01-04-2007 Total posts: 13 
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