Sew- Along: Swimwear Shape-Up

At a Glance:

• Learn how to fully construct two BurdaStyle bathing suit patterns
• See how to adapt a pattern meant for wovens and make it work for stretch fabrics!
• Develop new swim patterns off of both our regular and plus size swimwear slopers
• Sew the top of our Retro Bikini pattern with several strap/back variations
• How to work with stretch fabrics using only a regular sewing machine

About this Sew-Along:

Don’t be intimidated by sewing your own swimwear, it can be so easy and doable just with a regular sewing machine – no serger required! Not sure which patterns are suitable? Or which fabrics and notions to use? In this sew-along, seasoned swimwear sewist Meg Healy will talk about and show you everything you need to know to sew up your own on-trend swimsuit just in time for summer.

Whatever your size or style is, this sew-along includes patterns and how-tos for both regular and plus sizes as well as two and one-piece suits! We’ll start off with the BurdaStyle Retro Bikini from the 05/2013 issue (included in the course) and transform it to suit stretch fabrics and we’ll even show you various strap and clasp options to suit your comfort level. For the bottoms, we together will draft a custom pair fitted to our swimsuit slopers that you can even shape to mimic a pair of undies or other swim-bottoms that you love the fit of. Meg will cover everything swimsuit sewing from elastic application to simple stretch seams and then finish it off with topstitching that will look ultra professional and store bought.

Is a one-piece more your style? How about an ultra on-trend off the shoulder one? Lastly, you’ll be walked through how to use a sloper pattern and fully develop a one-piece suit with side seam flattering gathers! This is a skill that you can take to any sloper pattern and be your own designer. The included swimwear slopers come in both regular and plus sizes so everyone can benefit from this sew-along. Take the plunge now and register – you don’t even need a serger to complete these suits!