Sewing Bee 2023 Week 2 Patterns & Techniques

Did you enjoy travel week on the Sewing Bee? Let us help you find pattern inspiration and sewing support on your next project.

Made to measure challenge

GBSB Week 2 featured some fun swimsuits so check out our patterns recommendations. Where we don’t have a perfect pattern match, we’re also suggesting the closest style. Plus we have all the expert guidance you need to sew a successful swimsuit. You’re in safe hands with Madalynne, our lingerie and activewear specialist – Follow her two part video sewalong to learn all about swim construction.

Take inspiration from Lauren with a one shoulder design! Vogue 9192 has classic clean lines and you can jazz up the shoulder strap with a cool ring!

Want something simple? Follow Gillie’s lead and choose Butterick 4526. She chose to add orange bias trim in a fun pop of colour to emphasise the neckline!

Colourblocking? Ties? AND Cut outs? We loved Mia’s combo of these items. New Look 6734 gives you the chance to combine all these elements in a different way.

Both Tony R and Tony W opted for deep v necklines on their swimsuits. We think the neckline on M7964 is a pretty close match. This pattern includes a gorgeous beach cover up too.

We loved Lizzie’s frill neckline swimsuit! If you’re looking to add a frilly detail, choose McCall’s 7168 which has loads of views to choose from and could easily be hacked into a full swimsuit.

Matthew and Tony W added swim skirts to their designs which is the perfect way to be more covered up. Why not take a look at Butterick 5795 with its swim skirt and dress options.

Asmaa’s beautiful vintage inspired swimsuit reminded us a little of Vogue 1894 – The diamond cutouts on her swimsuit are like the shape of V1894 view A.

Fauve got us excited about cold water swimming! McCall’s 7417 would be good for keeping you warm with it’s rash guard style top.

Find even more swimwear inspiration in our dedicated Sewing Bee category! Shop now

Pattern challenge:

If you preferred the backpack challenge, then why not try Simplicity 9518. It has less of the fiddly straps and webbing to contend with and gives you a classic rucksack style with customisable details. We love it in clear vinyl for a modern twist.