As we move from late summer into early fall, it’s all about the layers. And there’s no better fabric for transitional dressing than lightweight sweater knits.
This week’s deadstock drop includes a curated range of soft, breathable sweater knits in unique textures — from bold stripes to subtle sparkles. They're light enough for warm afternoons, but cozy enough for crisp mornings and cool evenings.
Why We Love Lightweight Sweater Knits:
Breathable but cozy — ideal for layering without overheating
Soft drape — adds elegance and movement to simple silhouettes
Stretch & comfort — easy to wear, easy to sew
Sustainable — made from rescued deadstock fabric = no new waste
Whether you're sewing for now or prepping for fall, these fabrics are seasonless staples.
Sewing Pattern Suggestions
Not sure where to start? Here are a few beginner-to-intermediate sewing patterns that pair perfectly with lightweight sweater knits:
A gender-neutral knit tee that works beautifully with drapey sweater knits for an elevated basic.
Final Thoughts:
Deadstock drops mean once it’s gone, it’s gone. These lightweight sweater knits won’t last long — especially with their limited quantities and irresistible textures.
Grab your fabric and pattern, and start stitching your perfect layering piece for the season ahead.
Calling all makers, swimsuit stitchers, and print lovers!
You asked, we splashed (okay, dashed) to make it happen — introducing our brand-new Full Metre Swim Kits, designed to take the stress out of swimsuit sewing and let those big, bold prints shine like they were born to.
Think of it as your swimsuit-making BFF in a bag.
What's Inside the Kit?
Glad you asked. Each kit includes:
✅ 1m of Swim Print – perfect for large-scale prints (so no flowers where flowers shouldn’t be 👀)✅ 1m of Swim Lining – soft, supportive, and ready for action✅ Rubber Swim Elastic – the good stuff that holds everything in place✅ Matching Gütermann Thread – because clashing thread is a crime✅ EXCLUSIVE Sew-In Label – a little luxe detail to say, “Yes, I made this”
The only thing not in the kit? The pattern. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with recommendations. Like the Poppy Swimsuit from Edgewater Ave — it’s the one we used here...
We’re kicking off this collection with two absolute stunners:
Casa Blanca
Leaf It To Me
Why These Kits Are a Game-Changer
Let’s talk print placement. We've all been there—finishing a gorgeous suit only to realize the tropical bloom has bloomed in a very awkward place. 😅 These kits make it easier to plan your cuts with a generous 1m print cut and pro pattern suggestions to help you avoid the dreaded placement mishap.
👉 Want to dig deeper into why print placement matters (and how to get it right)? Check out our blog post about it – trust us, it’s worth the read!
For Makers, By Makers
We designed these kits because we’re sewists too. We know the joy of nailing that last stitch, flipping a suit right side out, and saying “I MADE THIS.” We also know the struggle of hunting down matching thread, remembering to buy elastic, or realizing you forgot the lining. This kit? It’s got your back (literally).
Ready to Make a Splash?
Our swim kits are limited-run, curated for print lovers, and made to help you create a truly wearable work of art. Whether you’re diving into your first suit or are a seasoned swim-sewist, this kit’s for you.
👉 Shop all Swim Kits 👉 Learn More About Print Placement
So, what do you think? Are you ready to take the plunge with us?
Tired of trying on a dozen swimsuits that never quite fit right? Sewing your own one-piece swimsuit gives you full control over fit, style, and fabric—so you can actually feel good in what you're wearing. Whether you're after something sporty, sexy, or totally unique, making your own swimwear opens up a world of creative possibilities.
We’ve teamed up with some of our favourite sewing influencers to show off 10 stunning handmade swimsuits—and trust us, the inspo is next-level.
Benefits of Sewing Your Own One-Piece Swimsuit:
Custom Fit: Say goodbye to gaping necklines and saggy bottoms.
Endless Design Options: Choose the pattern, fabric, coverage, and cut.
Cost-Effective: High-end swimwear look, without the price tag.
Confidence Boost: There’s nothing like rocking something you made with your own two hands.
Sustainable: Avoid fast fashion and make only what you’ll actually wear.
10 Influencer-Made Swimsuits You’ll Want to Copy:
@houseofhotard - Tami
✂️ Pattern: Modified Edgewater Ave Olivia
🧵 Fabric: Jet Black + Onyx Power Mesh
Chic and sheer in all the right places.
@indieseen - Nicole
✂️ Pattern: Greenstyle Mimosa
🧵 Fabric: Lipstick Jungle + Persimmon Swim Kit
Tropical glam meets sleek design.
@thewanderersclothing - Meighan
✂️ Pattern: Greenstyle Kokomo
🧵 Fabric: Marine + Honey Ribbed Solids
Perfect for beach lounging and active days.
@theravelout - Sylvia
✂️ Pattern: Edgewater Ave Poppy
🧵 Fabric: Spot On + Sienna Brown Swim Kit
A bold combo for bold vibes.
@bringingsewingback - Catherine
✂️ Pattern: Modified Styla Tavira
🧵 Fabric: Purple Swim Solid
A unique take with a flattering silhouette.
@majacan - Marie
✂️ Pattern: Petite Stitchery Darby
🧵 Fabric: Teal Pond + Wildberry
Color-blocked for ultimate summer fun.
@uniquelypriest - Tori
✂️ Pattern: Jalie Racerback
🧵 Fabric: Exotic Beauty + Electric Coral Swim Kit
Sporty, secure, and full of flair.
@majacan - Marie
✂️ Pattern: Rad Patterns Fit to Be Tied
🧵 Fabric: Viva Los Cabos (also seen is Burberry Look Boardshort)
Perfect mix of flirty and functional.
@houseofhotard - Tami
✂️ Pattern: Self-drafted from Pinterest inspo
🧵 Fabric: Casa Blanca + Sienna Binding
Dreamy neutral tones with Pinterest-worthy vibes.
Us!
✂️ Pattern: Edgewater Ave Poppy
🧵 Fabric: Monstera Madness, Casa Blanca, and Leaf It To Me
A print-lover’s dream with statement energy.
🧵 Ready to Sew Your Own?
Check out the fabrics used above in our Swim Fabric Collection and browse patterns from indie designers like Edgewater Ave, Greenstyle, and more.
Follow us on Instagram to see these looks in action and tag us when you sew yours! ✨
MAKE IT. WEAR IT. OWN IT.
Swim to Street: How to Repurpose Swim Fabrics for Year-Round Wear
Swimwear fabrics aren’t just for the beach anymore. With the rise of sustainable fashion and the need for versatile clothing, makers everywhere are getting creative with how they use recycled swimwear fabrics beyond the pool. These high-performance materials are breathable, moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and stretch-friendly. Perfect for creating wardrobe staples that work year-round.
In this blog, we’ll show you how to take your favorite swim fabrics and transform them into stylish, functional pieces you can wear all year long.
Why Use Swim Fabric Beyond Summer?
Swim fabrics are typically made with a blend of recycled polyester or nylon and spandex. This combination gives them:
Four-way stretch
Quick-dry capability
UV resistance
Durability for active use
That makes them ideal for everything from yoga tops to layering pieces for fall.
Top Clothing Items You Can Sew with Swim Fabric
1. Athleisure Tops & Tanks
Use swim knit to make racerback tanks, fitted tops, or yoga bras. The stretch and moisture-wicking properties make these ideal for workouts or layering under cardigans in cooler months.
✅ Fabric & Pattern Ideas:
Greenstyle Patterns Solo Tank in a print like Tropical Hurricane, layered over the Power Bra in Solid Red or Peacock Rib
Love Notions Clearwater Summer Essentials (meant for swim & activewear) in Floral Silhouettes. @createdbybe made the sports bra version.
2. Everyday Leggings or Bike Shorts
Yes—swim fabric can double as activewear fabric. Especially when paired with supportive patterns, it’s perfect for leggings, shorts, or even lounge sets.
✅ Pattern Ideas:
Jalie Clara Leggings or Swim Shorts
Patterns for Pirates Peg Legs (Bonus: these are free & they have free add ons)
Fabric Suggestion:Ribbed Swim Solids: For leggings or fitted shorts, these offer a slightly heavier weight with amazing recovery—ideal for fall fitness fashion.
Pro Tip: Be sure to double check the stretch requirements for the pattern you are using to ensure a flawless fit. Swim Prints would work great on a looser fitting short.
3. Base Layers for Fall/Winter
Turtlenecks, fitted long sleeves, and base layers made from swim fabric? Absolutely. Swim knits trap body heat while keeping moisture away—ideal under flannels or jackets.
✅ Pattern Ideas:
Hey June Handmade Union St. Tee
Closet Core Patterns Core T-Shirt (free)
Fabric Suggestion:Sienna Brown or Rosemary Solids:Rich autumn tones and breathable fabric make these a no-brainer.
4. Fashion Bodysuits
A sleek bodysuit made from shiny or matte swim fabric is on trend for layering with high-waisted pants or skirts.
✅ Pattern Ideas:
George and Ginger Roadtrip Bodysuit or Friday Pattern Co Elysian Bodysuit
Get creative and use your favourite 1 piece bathing suit pattern and modify it to include snaps. Check out this tutorial from Friday Pattern Co on how to add snaps to their Elysian Bodysuit
Fabric Suggestion:Use a staple colour like Jet Black, and add some sexy Onyx Power Mesh accents like @houseofhotard did here:
5. Dresses or Skirts
For a sporty twist, use swimwear fabric to create body-hugging dresses or midi skirts. Great for transitional weather and layering.
✅ Pattern Ideas:
Petite Stichery Romy Twist Tee & Skirt
Seamwork Mesa Dress
Fabric Suggestion:Use Ribbed Swim for more structured skirts, and Solids or Prints for tops and flowy skirts
Sewing Tips for Swim Fabric:
Use a ballpoint or stretch needle (size 75/11 or 80/12)
Opt for polyester thread for better strength
Use a serger or zigzag stitch to maintain stretch
Consider a walking foot if your machine struggles with slick fabrics
Use lining as needed to ensure you piece isn't see through, and add cups for some additional support
Sustainability Spotlight: Why Choose Fabric & Flow?
We offer a stunning range of Swimwear Fabrics, and other earth-friendly options like Bamboo and Recycled Denims. Every metre you use helps reduce waste and promotes slow fashion—making your creations not just stylish, but sustainable.
Explore our full Swim collection HERE.
Final Thoughts
Swimwear fabric isn’t just for summer—it’s one of the most versatile materials in your stash. From stylish tanks to thermal base layers, these year-round spandex pieces will take you from swim to street in comfort, style, and sustainability.
Ready to get sewing? Stock up on eco-conscious, designer-quality fabrics and start creating activewear that works year-round.