The Lil’ Bug Pattern:
This pattern is for a soft packer for use by trans and non-binary folks, or as an anatomical model. Includes 4 sizes: Adult S, L and XL, and the Bitty Bug for youths.

• 4 Sizes
• Full photo tutorial
• Sized, shaped and stuffed to be anatomically proximal
• Designed by a member of the trans community
• Tested by the trans and non-binary community

The Lil’ Bug story:
In October 2019 I was looking for a pattern to make a soft packer for myself, after being frustrated by the cost and discomfort of silicone options.

Silicone packers are expensive, heavy, and can get hot, sticky and uncomfortable. They come in limited sizes and colors, and unless worn with a strap, they weigh down clothing and don’t stay put. They have to be powdered and cared for carefully, and even then only last about 6 months with daily wear.

The crochet options I found were oversized and comical, not designed to look good or be comfortable under clothing. I started to think making my own pattern might be necessary. I tried the free patterns I could find, and posted some photos in a large LGBTQ+ sewing group. Immediately I had 2 parents ask me if I could please make something like this for their young trans sons. After hearing from a mother who didn’t know what else to do than just cry with her son, unsure how to ease his dysphoria with no options available for children, I decided to add the youth size to my pattern. The very first Bitty Bug packers I made were for 10 and 6 year old boys. I’m honored to have been a small part of their gender journey.

I went on a mission to make a quality, comfortable packer that could be available to anyone in any shape, color, or size, and that they could make themselves. I designed, tested and refined the Lil’ Bug with a group of friends and wonderful, experienced crochet testers. I sent them out to trans people to road test, and wore them myself. The resulting design is functional, comfortable, visually appropriate, and most importantly, feels good to wear. The presence that a packer has when worn is the most important part for most folks of addressing dysphoria.

Why isn’t this pattern free?
It is important to pay marginalized people for their creative work, and these small sales help support my queer family by covering a small part of the cost of providing packers for free. Accessibility is important to me, and if anyone needs it for free, please contact me.

Ways to Participate
I am committed to helping my community have access to the things we want and need. I hope you enjoy this pattern, and for those of you making these for trans friends and family - you rock!

Want to make packers for the trans community?
The Parts For People Volunteer Facebook group
The Soft Packer Project Ravelry group