147 Norwegian Bunad

Women's XS-2XL

The bunad is the traditional folk costume of Norway, often worn for special occasions and festivals.  Based in historic folk dress tradition of Norway, the bunad has evolved over time and geography to become a regionalized and stylized costume. Our sewing pattern presents basic versions of the blouse, vest, skirt, and apron which can be used to create a personalized bunad. Choose fabrics, embroidery, and trim to embellish your bunad to suit exactly what you want.  

The gusseted Blouse has a drop shoulder, sleeves gathered into cuffs, a collar, and slit front opening which can be covered by an embroidered decorative panel.  The Vest has an option of two views; the front meets at the waist and can be laced or left open, or with an embroidered vest insert added.  The Skirt falls to ankle length and is pleated into a waistband which buttons in the back.  We provide an Apron template and instructions to cut and construct a pleated-front apron with a waistband which also buttons in the back.

Many regions have their own bunad style, history, and tradition, which includes colors, embroidery, and cut of the garments.  Add embroidery to any part of this pattern. Embroidery designs based in Norwegian folk tradition are included in this pattern along with embroidery instructions and a detailed history of the bunad tradition.

Suggested fabrics:
Blouse:  Light to medium weight fabrics like linen, cotton poplin or lawn, rayon.
Vest: Medium to heavy weight fabrics such as wool, cotton, linen, or silk.  Brocades are sometimes used.
Skirt: Medium to heavy weight fabrics such as wool, cotton, linen, or silk.
Apron: Light to medium weight cotton, such as poplin, linen, or silk..

Yardage chart (.pdf)

This pattern is available as a Paper pattern and PDF pattern. Choose the
pattern format you want in the drop down menu. The PDF pattern has instructions and files, layered by size, for copy shop (36” and A0), print at home (A4 and 8.5”x11”), and projectors.