Jodie's Sewing Studio

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 a 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 love them.  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.

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

18″ Doll Kuspuk Information

12″ Doll Kuspuk 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