Sewing Swimsuits: The Supportive One-Piece

Class Preview

Sew swimwear that fits better than ready-to-wear! Learn techniques for working with swimwear fabric, adding supportive cups, shaping seams and more.

Fit & Fabric

Meet swimwear sewing expert Beverly Johnson! You’ll begin class by taking four key measurements, choosing a pattern for your one-piece suit, making fit modifications and learning how to draft a bra-style back if desired. Then, you’ll see how to choose swimwear fabric and get tips for layout and cutting.

Interior Bra With Pre-Formed Cups

Pre-formed foam cups are another option for support in your suit. Beverly guides you through choosing foam cup styles, orienting them correctly and stitching them to the basted lining of your suit.

Interior Built-In Bra

For larger busts, the built-in bra option is a fabulous way to get great support. Beverly will explain the best choices for these cups and frames. Then, she’ll show you how to adapt your own bra pattern for swimwear and construct the bra for later insertion into your suit.

Constructing the Suit

It’s time to put your suit together! You’ll begin by joining the lining to the suit pieces with pinning or spray-basting. If your suit style has princess seams, you’ll learn to stitch them for perfect curves. Then, you’ll stitch back, side, crotch and shoulder seams.

Completing the Suit

Your suit is nearly complete! You’ll make any necessary adjustments to the leg curve for comfort and flattery. Then, discover Beverly’s techniques for choosing, applying and finishing swimwear elastic to leg openings, necklines and armholes. If you’ve chosen to add a built-in bra, you’ll find out how to insert it.

Fit Adjustments & Color Blocking

With your first suit complete, Beverly will share plenty of ideas if you haven’t quite found the fit you love. Explore common issues and the drafts to solve them. You’ll learn about color-blocking options and be inspired to create a wardrobe of fashionable, flattering, supportive swimwear.