Tuesday, August 19, 2014

Three Days to Whip Up Some Swimsuits



With my latest shirts and linen shorts finished (they debut tomorrow), I still have three days to sew some last-minute holiday togs.

What could be faster than a swimsuit -- with grommets no less!





I have never inserted grommets before but I'm going to learn how in the next few days.  I assume any knit fabric will need to be interfaced (or reinforced) before the grommet is attached.  Anybody know?

As for fabric, I picked up half a yard of three very different swimsuit knits today, plus lining.

The first is a gray Marc Jacobs floral print.





The second is this multicolored paisley print:





And finally, this red, white, and black tropical print.





Here's my lining:



I have clear swimsuit elastic somewhere; I'll dig that out.  And if I use the grommets I'll have to buy some nylon lacing for a drawstring.   (I also have knit interfacing if I need it -- a sturdy stabilizer for the grommets might work better.)

I have plenty of swimwear patterns to choose from.  I'll probably start with something with a Speedo-style cut.  In addition to the patterns, I have plenty of RTW swimsuits to examine.



Having made swimsuits before with mixed success, I know that, aside from the cut, it's all about the finishing.  I don't have a true coverstitch machine but I'll have to do my best with just a serger and sewing machine.  Luckily I have lots of fabric to experiment with.

Four years ago I made these and they came out pretty well, though the fabric was kind of gross.



I used regular elastic in those for some reason but the finish looks OK and the suit feels secure.



Anyway, this should keep me busy for the next few days.

Any swimsuit experts out there?

Have a great day, everybody!




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