Friday’s Kuspuk, one pattern with many options. Sized 2-32 to fit most teens and adults.
The pattern is currently available at most independent Alaskan Quilt Fabric shops.
The “Kuspuk” itself is not my design. It is a beautiful part of Alaska’s clothing heritage. The Kuspuk (from Yup’ik qaspeq; Iñupiaq: atikłuk) , also known by some as the “Eskimo Summer Parka”, was originally constructed of calico fabrics and adorned with simple trims such as Rick Rack and bias tapes. Historically, Kuspuks were not made with a “pattern” such as this but with custom torn pieces of fabric and artfully crafted to fit the individual wearing it. If you ever have the opportunity to learn from an Alaska Native teacher, do so. The garment has been used as a protective (and decorative) outer garment over winter parkas and as a lightweight top or dress in the summer months. Kuspuks are great bug barriers! Kuspuk designs vary across the state, reflecting the uniqueness and beauty of Alaska’s Native Peoples. It is essentially a hoodie crafted from woven fabrics. Young sewists are combining knits and wovens, making a more fitted garment.
In Juneau, Alaska’s beautiful capitol, state office workers wear Kuspuks on Fridays. These days are known as “Kuspuk Friday” ….. hence, “Friday’s Kuspuk.” I’ve been making Kuspuks for over 30 years. I no NOT sell kuspuks. Please look for kuspuk makers on Facebook; there is a growing number of indigenous makers there. I enjoy making kuspuks for myself as I LOVE to wear quilting cottons! My favorite style is the simple pullover, Alaska’s original Hoodie!!!
I’ve taught sewing for years to teens and adults. Years of teaching adults how to alter patterns to fit has had a great impact on the design of this particular pattern. The Kuspuk itself is a rather simple garment and I tried to preserve that in this pattern. It is a loose fitting pullover with a simple shirt (not set in) sleeve.
Friday’s Kuspuk pattern is sized from 2 to 32 in one ready-to-use pattern. The smallest size fits young teens. I drafted the pattern then graded it to include a huge range of sizes. The multiple sizing is beneficial for many reasons. It’s most beneficial for larger sized people who often need a variety of sizes in one garment. For example, one friend of mine needs a size 26 bust, 30 hip and 16 wrist. Adjustments are quite simple in a multi-sized pattern. The PowerPoint presentation (below) does illustrate how to size the pattern.
Please contact me if you have any questions, especially if you have questions regarding using your multi sized pattern. This pattern is suitable for men too. Be aware of this as you utilize the larger sizes. Men’s broad shoulders demand a longer sleeve. The pattern is drafted accordingly. Larger women will most likely need to shorten the sleeve pattern. Detailed instructions regarding how to make the sleeve adjustments occur on the sleeve pattern itself.
Blessings and happy sewing!!!
Patterns can be purchased from your Alaska owned independent fabric shop or at http://www.raintreequilting.com
Patterns and Kuspuk Fabric Kits can also be purchased Here.
Adult Kuspuk Pattern Information
Children’s Kuspuk Pattern Information
Fridays Kuspuk Power Point Presentation
I upload technique photos and instructions often on my Facebook page. The name of the page is: Jodie’s Sewing Studio Facebook Page
Jodie's Sewing Studio 
Where can I find the pattern for this?
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Hi Jeanie,
Where do you live? If you are in Alaska, most privately owned quilt fabric stores carry the pattern. If not, contact me at kuspuks@gmail.com
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I want to make one so bad!! I’d also like to make one for my son, who was born in Anchorage. Also, make one for his new wife. They got engaged and married in Alaska. He’s very proud of being from Alaska.
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hi! I bought the book and used the pattern to make a size 10. I need to make a few more sizes. How do I get just the patterns. Thank you
They are printed as a package: booklet and pattern pieces. It’s too costly to print any other way.
If you own a custom sewing business, I have dressmaker packs of patterns with one set of instructions.
I hope this helps.
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there are no placement markings for the pocket on the children’s pattern. Can you tell me how far from the hem for the shirt of the ruffle for the dress to place the pocket?
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Usually, the pocket placement is 1” above the seam of the skirt is being attached. Or, about 2” above the hemline. I don’t have a copy of the instructions with me right now. It is mentioned somewhere in the instructions.
Most importantly, if you are making the Kuspuk for a particular person, place the pockets where their hands fit most comfortably. I hope this helps. Thank you!
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