Ten tips for sewing swimwear

So it’s that time of the year and you are looking to make your own swimsuit. Fair enough, I just made mine for the season and I thought we should talk about a few things before embarking on making your first or this season’s swimsuit.

1. Not all fabrics are created equal - What do I mean by that? Some swimsuit fabrics are easier to work with than others. Some fabrics are a little more “stable” aka thicker than a swimsuit fabric that is a little thinner which also makes it a little harder to work with, slippery on the sewing machine. So get some samples and choose wisely based on your pattern.

2. While we are in the topic of fabrics let’s talk about linings - Are you looking to get a little support while wearing your swimsuit? This is the best place to use a lining fabric with a little bit more support to keep that bust tucked in. Stick with high compression swimsuit lining fabric if you want more support, Don’t need as much support then opt for regular swim Lining.

3. Choose the right elastic - Ever wonder why your ready to wear swimsuit goes kaput after one year? They use regular elastic. Stick with cotton swimwear elastic or rubber elastic. It is made so it holds better against chlorine and salt water.

4. Cut on the crossgrain - You are using a knit so you will be taking advantage of that largest amount of stretch. In a knit that happens on the crossgrain. So pay attention to that grainline shown on the pattern and keep that in mind if you are selecting a printed swim fabric.

5. Baste to fit - It is okay to baste your main fabric to make sure you have the right fit. Baste the sides first, and make those straight stitches (ONLY FOR BASTING) so they are easier to remove if you need to let your swimsuit out or take it in.

6. Use a zig zag stitch - When in doubt use a zig zag stitch, you can use a lightning bolt stitch or a regular zig zag stitch. Your fabric will stretch and a straight stitch will pop. You can however use a double needle or a cover stitch to finish your garment for a professional top stitched look so if you are able to do this I highly recommend it.

7. Use stretch needles needles - You are sewing with a knit fabric and a fresh stretch needle on your sewing machine will keep avoid skipped stitches.

8. Use a rotary cutter - Swimwear fabrics tend to be slippery so using a rotary cutter is a good way to cut your fabric.

9. Try your best NOT to stretch your fabric and use fabric clips. You will be stretching your elastic but very little almost slightly, you dont’ want to end with any ripples in your fabric. So avoid stretching it. Use a fabric clip like these Clover clips. Perfect for sewing with slippery swimwear fabric.

10. Double bonus…. it uses very little fabric AND my favorite don’t even bother with the iron. You will not be ironing at all. So don’t even turn it on as ironing will damage your fabric.