From Thread to Beach- How To Sew Bathing Suit Fabric Like a Pro

AvatarByJill Nammar

Summer means hot days spent lounging by the pool or playing in the waves at the beach. And what’s more essential for a perfect summer day than a great bathing suit? While buying ready-to-wear swimwear may seem convenient, those who are passionate about fashion and DIY projects know that sewing your own bathing suit offers endless possibilities for unique and personalized designs. However, sewing with bathing suit fabric can be intimidating for beginners. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to sew your own bathing suit like a pro. So grab your sewing machine and let’s dive into the world of swimwear!

Understanding Bathing Suit Fabric

Bathing suits are an essential piece of clothing for many people during the warmer months. Whether you’re planning a day at the beach or going for a swim at the pool, a good bathing suit is crucial. However, selecting the right fabric for your bathing suit is often overlooked, which can result in discomfort or poor quality. Understanding different types of bathing suit fabric is vital to ensure you have the perfect fit and functionality.

There are several types of fabrics used in making bathing suits, and each has its unique properties. The most common swimsuit fabrics include polyester, spandex, nylon, and cotton blends. Most swimsuits are made from a combination of these materials to achieve optimal comfort and performance. Let’s take a closer look at each type of fabric and its characteristics.

Polyester

Polyester is a synthetic material that is durable and resistant to stretching and shrinking. It’s often mixed with other materials like elastane or spandex to create a stretchy material perfect for active swimwear. Polyester is also chlorine-resistant, making it an excellent choice for frequent use in pools or in saltwater.

One advantage of polyester fabric is its quick-drying capabilities, making it perfect for people who enjoy outdoor activities like volleyball or beach runs after swimming sessions without having to sit around waiting for their swimsuit to dry.

On the downside, polyester can be prone to pilling or fuzzing over time due to friction from sand or other rough surfaces. However, if you take proper care of your swimsuit and avoid contact with rough surfaces, this issue will be minimized.

Spandex/Elastane

Spandex (or elastane) is another synthetic material commonly used in bathing suits. It’s known for being incredibly stretchy, with the ability to expand up to 500% without breaking significantly. This fabric is often blended with other materials like polyester to create a snug, conforming fit.

One of the main advantages of spandex is its ability to maintain its shape. Unlike other fabrics that can stretch out over time, spandex always bounces back to its original form. This property makes it perfect for swimsuits as it ensures a tight fit that doesn’t sag or become loose after multiple uses.

The downside of spandex is that it’s not very resistant to chlorine and can quickly deteriorate if used regularly in chlorinated pools. It’s also not as quick-drying as polyester, so swimsuits made solely from spandex may take longer to dry.

Nylon

Nylon is another popular material used in swimsuits. It’s a lightweight, breathable fabric that dries quickly and has excellent moisture-wicking properties. It’s also incredibly stretchy and soft on the skin, making it comfortable for all-day wear.

One significant advantage of nylon is its durability. It can withstand frequent use in chlorinated pools without deteriorating as quickly as other materials like spandex. Additionally, nylon has a smooth surface, making it resistant to pilling or fuzzing.

However, one drawback of nylon is its tendency to lose color over time when exposed to chlorine or ultraviolet rays from the sun. To counter this issue, some bathing suit manufacturers have begun using advanced dyed nylon fabrics that are more resistant to fading.

Cotton blends

Cotton blends are a mix of cotton and synthetic fibers such as polyester or elastane. Cotton is known for being soft and comfortable against the skin while still providing a reasonable amount of stretch.

Cotton blends are an excellent choice for lounging at the beach or by the pool rather than engaging in intense water activities. They tend to hold water longer than synthetic fabrics and may feel heavy when wet. However, they are highly absorbent, making them perfect for people looking for a more natural, breathable material.

One drawback of cotton blends is their tendency to shrink when wet. This property makes it essential to choose the right size and avoid putting them in the dryer to prevent any unwanted changes in fit.

Factors to Consider When Sewing Bathing Suit Fabric

Sewing your own bathing suit can be a fun and rewarding experience. Not only do you get the satisfaction of wearing something you made, but you also have complete control over the fit and style. However, sewing with bathing suit fabric requires a bit more attention as these fabrics are specifically designed for swimwear and may behave differently compared to other materials.

The following are some essential factors to consider when sewing with bathing suit fabric:

Type of fabric

As mentioned earlier, there are different types of swimsuit fabrics available, and each behaves differently when being sewn. It’s crucial to understand the qualities and characteristics of your chosen fabric to determine the best sewing techniques and needle size for optimal results.

For example, if you’re using a spandex-based fabric, you’ll need to use a stretch needle designed specifically for such materials. On the other hand, if you’re using a polyester-based fabric, a standard needle will

Understanding Bathing Suit Fabric

Before diving into the specifics of sewing a bathing suit, it’s important to have a good understanding of the fabric itself. Bathing suit fabric is unlike any other type of material. It needs to be able to withstand exposure to water, chlorine, and salt while also providing comfort and mobility for the wearer.

The most common type of fabric used for bathing suits is called spandex, also known as Lycra or elastane. This material is known for its stretchiness and ability to hold its shape even when wet. It also has excellent moisture-wicking properties, which means it can pull sweat away from the body, keeping the wearer cool and comfortable.

However, not all spandex is created equal. When shopping for bathing suit fabric, look for high-quality spandex with a high percentage of elasticity. This will ensure that your bathing suit will maintain its shape and provide enough stretch for movement.

Another factor to consider when choosing bathing suit fabric is its UV protection rating. Most materials used for swimwear have a UV rating between 30-50+, meaning they can provide significant protection against harmful sun rays. This is especially important for those who spend long hours in the sun at the pool or beach.

Other popular types of bathing suit fabric include nylon, polyester blends, and microfiber. These materials are also known for their resistance to chlorine and their quick-drying abilities.

It’s crucial to choose your bathing suit fabric wisely as it plays a significant role in both the durability and comfort of your swimsuit.

Preparing Your Fabric

Once you have chosen your ideal bathing suit fabric, it’s time to prepare it properly before starting your sewing project. Pre-washing your fabric is essential as it helps remove any chemicals or residues that may affect the fit or appearance of your finished product.

To pre-wash your fabric, simply follow these steps:

1. Fill a tub or sink with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent.
2. Place your fabric in the water and gently agitate it for a few minutes.
3. Rinse thoroughly with cool water to remove all soap residue.
4. Lay your fabric flat on a towel and roll it up to remove excess water.
5. Hang your fabric to dry, making sure not to wring or twist it.

It’s crucial to avoid using harsh detergents, bleach, or fabric softeners when washing your bathing suit fabric as they can cause damage or discoloration.

Once your fabric is dry, you can iron it on a low heat setting to remove any wrinkles before cutting and sewing.

Cutting Your Fabric

Before you start cutting your bathing suit fabric, make sure you have a pattern that fits your body correctly. Using an ill-fitting pattern will result in a poorly fitting swimsuit.

Lay out your pre-washed and ironed fabric on a flat surface, making sure the stretch runs horizontally. Pin your pattern pieces onto the fabric according to the instructions provided with the pattern. This is especially important as some patterns may require directional cutting to ensure proper fit and stretch.

As most bathing suit fabrics are slippery, it’s essential to use sharp scissors or rotary cutter for precise cutting. Cut carefully along the edges of the pattern pieces without pulling or stretching the fabric.

Stitching Techniques

When stitching bathing suits, there are specific techniques you need to follow for optimal results. First and foremost, always use a ballpoint needle specifically designed for stretch fabrics. This will prevent skipped stitches or holes in your finished product.

It’s also essential to use high quality polyester thread as it has excellent elasticity and durability for swimwear stitching.

When sewing with bathing suit fabric, use a zigzag stitch with a medium length (around 2.5 mm). This stitch allows the fabric to stretch without causing any tears. It’s also recommended to use a walking foot on your sewing machine for better control of the slippery fabric.

While stitching, make sure not to pull or stretch the fabric too much as it can cause puckering or distort the fit of your swimsuit.

Finishing Touches

After you have completed sewing your bathing suit, it’s time for some finishing touches to enhance both the look and functionality of your swimsuit.

To prevent the straps from slipping off, adding elastic to them can provide extra grip. You can also add an elastic band along the waistline and leg openings for a snug and comfortable fit.

If your bathing suit features cup inserts, securing them with topstitching or invisible stitching will ensure they stay in place during wear.

It’s also recommended to perform a final fit check before finishing your seams with a serger or zigzag stitch for added durability.

Caring for Your Bathing Suit

Proper care and maintenance are crucial for extending the life of your handmade bathing suit. After each wear, rinse it in cool water to remove any chlorine or salt residue. Avoid using harsh detergents when hand washing and squeeze out excess

1. Can I sew a bathing suit with just any fabric?
No, bathing suit fabric is specially designed for swimwear and is more durable and stretchy than regular fabric, making it suitable for water activities. Using regular fabric may cause your bathing suit to lose its shape or become see-through when wet.

2. What type of needle should I use when sewing bathing suit fabric?
It is recommended to use a ballpoint or stretch needle when sewing bathing suit fabric. These types of needles are specifically designed for knit fabrics and will help prevent skipped stitches or fabric damage.

3. Do I need a special sewing machine for sewing bathing suit fabric?
No, you do not need a special sewing machine to sew bathing suit fabric. However, it is important to use the correct needle and adjust the tension settings on your machine to accommodate the stretchiness of the fabric.

4. How do I finish the raw edges of my bathing suit?
To finish the raw edges of your bathing suit, you can either use a serger or a zigzag stitch on your regular sewing machine. Sergers provide a professional finish while zigzag stitches help prevent fraying.

5. Can I make alterations on an existing swimsuit using my home sewing machine?
Yes, you can make alterations on an existing swimsuit using your home sewing machine. However, it is important to use the appropriate needle and techniques for knit fabrics to ensure that the finished product retains its stretchiness and shape.

6. How can I keep my DIY swimsuit from puckering while sewing?
To prevent puckering while sewing your DIY swimsuit, try using tissue paper or water-soluble stabilizer between layers of fabric when stitching seams. Additionally, pinning the fabric together before sewing can also help keep it in place and prevent puckering.

In conclusion, sewing your own bathing suit using the right techniques and proper fabric can be a fulfilling and cost-effective venture. We have discussed the various factors to consider when selecting fabric for a bathing suit, such as stretch, durability, and breathability.

Additionally, we explored the different types of stitches and techniques to use when working with bathing suit fabric, including zigzag stitching, using a serger, and using a stretch needle. Properly preparing your fabric before sewing is also crucial for achieving professional-looking results.

Furthermore, we highlighted the importance of fitting and adjusting the pattern to ensure a perfect fit for your body. The three main areas to focus on for fitting a bathing suit are the bust, waist/hips, and leg openings.

It is also essential to familiarize yourself with finishing techniques such as binding or elastic application to ensure that your garment stays put while in use.

Lastly, staying patient and practicing with scrap fabric can help improve your skills in working with bathing suit fabric. With time and practice, you can create custom-made swimsuits that fit perfectly and reflect your personal style.

No matter your reason for wanting to sew your own swimsuit – whether it’s to save money or have unique designs – understanding how to select and work with bathing suit fabric is vital. We

Author Profile

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Jill Nammar
My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.