I know I don't normally post on Saturdays but I couldn't wait to share my newest sew.

Today I'm talking about the Sew By Pattern Pieces Stinger Body Suit. I'm so glad that Lauren of Sew By Pattern Pieces reached out to me as I probably wouldn't have tried sewing up a rash guard. But I'm so glad I did. I even picked up a few tips too!

First things first though, let's cover what you get with this pattern. The Stinger Body Suit comes in sizes 1-14 and there are TONS of options in this pattern. Short, 3/4 and long sleeves. With or without the attached skirt. And either color block or solid bodice. And, if that isn't enough, there's even a tutorial here on how to add a cute accent ruffle to the skirt!

The pattern is intended to have a looser fit than a swimsuit with a slightly dropped shoulder to keep your little one comfortable while they play in the sun. It is NOT a swimsuit in the traditional sense. It is intended to be a nice coverage rash guard for days that involve outdoor water play where you need protection from the sun. That means trips to the beach, water park or just playing in the yard under the sprinklers.

I actually sewed one of these up nearly a month ago. BUT, I wasn't paying attention and my fabric was too stretchy! That means my suit was TOO BIG! I hate when that happens. Thankfully too big is better than too small and we'll save it for next year.

I know for me, my hesitation with this pattern was that front zipper. The idea of putting in a zipper in a fabric like nylon lycra was more than just a little bit scary. But the truth is, it was actually pretty easy. The pattern recommends using a knit bias fusible interfacing and that is exactly the right thing to do. Make sure that the stretch of your interfacing goes across the garment (not up and down) and then you'll have a nice stable cut out for installing your zipper. There is a video that comes with the pattern that will walk you through, step by step, how to install the zipper. I just love how she shows how to fold back the zipper ends. I'm not sure why I had never learned that before, but its now my go to method.

My only other recommendation for this pattern is "Wondertape." If you're a regular reader, you already know I love Wondertape. But if you want to review (or you've never read it), you can find that here.

The pattern pieces match up beautifully and the video tutorial make the zipper insertion EASY! I know you probably think easy and zipper don't belong together, but they do, promise. :)

My one complaint (and it isn't the pattern's fault) is that the leg openings+elastic end up a little big. My kids have tiny chicken legs, so the elastic could have been tighter. But I'm sure that kids with more average-larger legs would have been squished and unhappy. AND, I want to add that the strength of the elastic you use makes a HUGE difference in that leg opening. My elastic is actually pretty soft. So, it couldn't hurt to wrap the elastic around their upper leg to ensure that the fit will be tight enough (I wish I had done this).

Now that this suit is all done, I'm more than a little jealous and I REALLY regret not buying more of this beautiful fabric. Its so pretty and sparkly and makes me happy. I guess on the plus side, I wouldn't have been able to stare at my own suit while I was wearing it, but I can definitely admire my daughter's suit.

Of course it wouldn't be a great review without a coupon code. Sew By Pattern Pieces is offering a coupon code for 20% off storewide! I've got another Sew By Pattern Pieces review in my cue for the Fun Tee. I haven't sewn it yet, but it looks like a good one! The tee has sleeves that are NOT cut on the fold. ;) So hop on over and stock up. Coupon code: sew20 good through April 25.