Birgitta Helmersson
Birgitta Helmersson - PDF Sewing Pattern - Zero Waste Jumper
Birgitta Helmersson - PDF Sewing Pattern - Zero Waste Jumper
The Birgitta Helmersson ZW Jumper PDF Sewing Pattern combines everyday comfort with innovative zero waste pattern cutting, allowing you to create a modern oversized jumper while producing virtually no fabric waste. Instead of printing large paper pattern sheets, you'll draft the pattern directly onto your fabric using the included cutting layouts and printable templates, making this an ideal project for sewists looking to embrace sustainable sewing techniques.
The ZW Jumper features an oversized body with a contemporary curved hem and slim-fitting sleeves, creating a comfortable silhouette that's perfect for layering throughout the year. A classic crew neckline is finished with a ribbed neckband, while narrower fabric widths incorporate ribbed sleeve cuffs for a neat finish. The finished garment size and sleeve length are determined by your chosen fabric width, making this a highly adaptable design.
Suitable for both knit and woven fabrics, the pattern also includes guidance for adjusting the sleeve circumference for extended forearm sizes, along with a bonus hack for creating a smaller jumper using narrower fabric widths.
As a digital sewing pattern, your files are available to download instantly after purchase. Unlike traditional PDF sewing patterns, there are no full-size pattern sheets to assemble. Instead, you'll receive a comprehensive instruction booklet, cutting layouts and printable templates, with only the required templates needing to be printed before drafting the pattern directly onto your fabric.
Please note: This sewing pattern is licensed for personal and non-profit use only and may not be used for commercial production.
Sewing Skill Level: Beginner
What is a Zero Waste Sewing Pattern?
Zero waste sewing patterns are designed to use almost every centimetre of your fabric, dramatically reducing fabric waste compared to traditional sewing patterns.
Rather than cutting around large printed paper pattern pieces, you'll draw the pattern directly onto your fabric using the included cutting diagrams and templates. This method not only saves paper, but also makes it easier to customise garment length, adapt to different fabric widths and even make use of leftover fabrics or patchworked remnants.
Birgitta Helmersson's innovative drafting method is ideal for anyone interested in sustainable sewing, mindful fabric use and learning new pattern cutting techniques.
PDF Pattern Includes
Instant PDF download
Instruction booklet
Zero waste cutting layouts
Printable cutting templates
Metric and imperial measurements
Home printer compatible
Suitable for viewing digitally or printing required templates only
Size Information
This one-size pattern is designed for fabric widths between 145–175cm (57–69"). The finished garment size is determined by your chosen fabric width, allowing you to customise the fit while maintaining the zero waste layout.
| Fabric Width | Maximum Hip Size |
|---|---|
| 145cm (57") | 115cm |
| 150cm (59") | 120cm |
| 155cm (61") | 125cm |
| 160cm (63") | 130cm |
| 165cm (65") | 135cm |
| 170cm (67") | 140cm |
| 175cm (69") | 145cm |
Finished Garment Measurements
| Measurement | Size |
|---|---|
| Garment Length | 60cm |
| Maximum Forearm Circumference | 22cm |
The finished back hem sits approximately 5cm longer than the front. Garment length can easily be adjusted using the instructions included within the pattern.
Fabric Requirements
| Fabric Width | Main Fabric Required |
|---|---|
| 145–175cm | 80cm |
Fabric usage should be increased if lengthening the garment. Instructions for adjusting length are included within the pattern.
Helpful Links + Tutorials
Explore other makes on insta #zwjumper
Head here for a general tutorial on cutting using this method: Cutting a Zero Waste Garment
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The ZW Jumper is suitable for both knit and woven fabrics, making it an incredibly versatile wardrobe staple. Mid to heavyweight sweatshirt fabrics create a cosy oversized jumper, while lighter jersey or drapey woven fabrics produce a lighter layering piece.
- French terry
- Brushed cotton fleece
- Sweatshirt fleece
- Cotton jersey
- Loopback jersey
- Lightweight linen
- Soft cotton
- Light to medium weight drapey woven fabrics
- Cotton ribbing for neckband and cuffs
Knit fabrics are often best washed after construction when sewing this pattern, although woven fabrics can be pre-washed before cutting. If pre-washing woven fabrics, allow a little extra fabric for shrinkage.
To complete the ZW Jumper you will need:
- Cotton bias binding for the back neck facing (4cm × 32cm)
- Cotton ribbing for the neckline (8cm × 43cm)
- Optional cotton ribbing for sleeve cuffs (2 pieces, 16cm × 20cm)
- Sewing machine
- Iron
- Fabric scissors
- Chalk or removable fabric marker
- Large right-angle ruler and/or long straight ruler
Note: Only the cutting templates need to be printed. The pattern pieces are drafted directly onto your fabric using the included zero waste cutting layouts, helping to minimise both paper and fabric waste. Ribbing lengths may vary slightly depending on the stretch and recovery of your chosen rib knit.

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