What I've done so far is to create a pattern with some scrap fabric:
As you can tell, it is going to be a very simple, uncomplicated swimsuit for my girl.Tip #1 - Cut out the pieces with the greatest stretch going around the body.
4-way stretch lycra has different stretchability cross-grain or straight grain.
Tip #2 - Serge the seams using a serger with a 3-thread overlock stitch.
After attempting this part, I think a zigzag stitch will produce great result too. Of course, the overlock produces a much nicer finish, but since lycra doesn't fray anyway, zigzag stitch will probably suffice.
Here's how the serged seam looked:
From the right side, with stretch:
As you can see, the white thread is showing through. This bothers me less than the fact that I would have to go to the fabric store to get matching serger thread, so I'm sticking with white. However, if this bothers you, use a matching thread for the thread that goes through the serger needle (the one that top stitches).I decided to add some ruffles to the front - the edges are finished using a rolled hem on my serger.
Well, down the road (tomorrow or day after), I'll tell you what happened when I start inserting the elastics
6 comments:
Looks great so far! I've been wanting (and procrastinating) to do this for my daughter as well. She outgrows suits too quickly to justify much of the clothing budget going to swim wear. Can't wait to hear the rest of your story- I hope the elastic didn't give you too much grief!
Looking good!!
im using cotton to creat 50's swim suits.. hot would i put the elastic in when i have lining aswell..? HELP
what*
ill make it clearer..
i have the cotton fabric of my swimmers and i have the lining just of the front (the Back is sherred) how do i insert the elastic so it continues into the back sherred,, this is for the leg holes.. pictures and instructions would be very helpfull, thankyou
@saskia - when I made a swimsuit with lining, I treated the lining and the swimsuit fabric as one piece. This meant that I attached the elastic to both the fabric at an lining at the same time, using my serger. After that I turned the elastic under and zig-zag stitch (or sew using a twin needle). Sorry, I have no pictures currently, as I am not sewing any photos.
I hope that helps.
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