Let me start off by saying it's a true compliment when your spouse looks at you and says, "You bought another bathing suit?" As soon as I heard my hubby utter those words I knew I was successful.
First and foremost, I'm not a fan of printing patterns at home. But Burdastyle gets an A+ for this one. It was soo easy to print and put together. You have a four inch test square that helps you gauge if it printed correctly. If not, check your printer settings. The directions, however, are another story. You definitely need a little sewing experience for this project. And the reason... To know what to do when the pattern leaves you hangin'.
I can see how the ratings for this suit are a mere 3 out of 5 stars. (And to think, I just thought everyone was being soo mean when I read the complaints about this project.) Before attempting to create this ~ I read, re-read, and re-read the patterns instructions. There were a couple things that just didn't make sense to me but I figured, ehh...I'll get it. The center tab is not thoroughly explained very well along with attaching most of the separate pieces. I went along... of course tweaking it to my liking and I love what I ended up with.
Once my pattern was cut out, I attached the front to the back right sides together. I decided to completely eliminate lining the bodice, so for me I didn't need a half yard of Lycra lining. A quarter will do just fine. I only placed lining in the crotch area because the chest area is already lined. (You will fold over the fabric for that piece.)
For the crotch area, I simply attached my pieces with the serger and stitched them to the bathing suit.
It's starting to look like the suit!
Next, for the chest piece, create gathers as the pattern explains. But DO NOT attach it to your bodice yet. This is the time you place your cups in the chest if you need them. I wish I had done this. A little lift is always nice. I completely pieced my bra top together, notch and all before attaching it to the bodice. I loved working with it this way. I was able to attach it in sections with slow stitching unlike the pattern which calls for top stitching.... which can look a little sloppy if your not used to working with stretch fabric.
Attaching the band was pretty simple and went along great. I opted to eliminate the back strap for comfort and well... I just liked the way it looked:)
The leg holes were serged and stitched inward. You could attach an extra band for a boycut, but I didn't want that either. The pattern is created to sit a little low naturally.
That's it! Project complete. Time to hit the pool!
As for learning... What was gained? First, a better knowledge for manipulating stretch fabric. Second, bra cups are priceless. They keep your puppies in place. And third, I gotta say I'm totally hooked. Next on my want list ~ a high waisted retro bottom with a simple bandeau top. That is... after I make some for the girls:)
Happy Trails!
First and foremost, I'm not a fan of printing patterns at home. But Burdastyle gets an A+ for this one. It was soo easy to print and put together. You have a four inch test square that helps you gauge if it printed correctly. If not, check your printer settings. The directions, however, are another story. You definitely need a little sewing experience for this project. And the reason... To know what to do when the pattern leaves you hangin'.
I can see how the ratings for this suit are a mere 3 out of 5 stars. (And to think, I just thought everyone was being soo mean when I read the complaints about this project.) Before attempting to create this ~ I read, re-read, and re-read the patterns instructions. There were a couple things that just didn't make sense to me but I figured, ehh...I'll get it. The center tab is not thoroughly explained very well along with attaching most of the separate pieces. I went along... of course tweaking it to my liking and I love what I ended up with.
Once my pattern was cut out, I attached the front to the back right sides together. I decided to completely eliminate lining the bodice, so for me I didn't need a half yard of Lycra lining. A quarter will do just fine. I only placed lining in the crotch area because the chest area is already lined. (You will fold over the fabric for that piece.)
For the crotch area, I simply attached my pieces with the serger and stitched them to the bathing suit.
It's starting to look like the suit!
Next, for the chest piece, create gathers as the pattern explains. But DO NOT attach it to your bodice yet. This is the time you place your cups in the chest if you need them. I wish I had done this. A little lift is always nice. I completely pieced my bra top together, notch and all before attaching it to the bodice. I loved working with it this way. I was able to attach it in sections with slow stitching unlike the pattern which calls for top stitching.... which can look a little sloppy if your not used to working with stretch fabric.
Attaching the band was pretty simple and went along great. I opted to eliminate the back strap for comfort and well... I just liked the way it looked:) 
That's it! Project complete. Time to hit the pool!
Happy Trails!
Very pretty! I'm doing some research before diving into the Allison pattern, and your post is very helpful.. Thanks so much! :D
ReplyDeleteThank you! It was a delightful piece to work on. Wishing you bathing suit success on new project:)
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