I was so excited to see a bikini pattern on the site! Here is my version. I had never sewn spandex before, but it was ok with the special needle I got. I used Jessica for the top – even though I used one size larger than my Burda top size, when I tried it on I still found that the triangles are a little skimpy – I might try to size it up another step next time. Instead of making the Jessica string bottoms, I used the Cheeky Panties pattern for the bottoms (resized to Burda size 42), and it turned out great! (now I just have to muster the courage to wear them in the summer, as they are quite cheeky on my ample bum!) :)
spandex swimsuit fabric
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Jul 13, 2009, 09.39 PMby kotori
Really appreciate for your advice to use the Cheeky Panties pattern !!! I have No courage to wear Jessica pattern as it is. Your sence of fabrics is also superb! Thank you for your creation.
Jun 26, 2008, 01.24 PMby cicaktoes
Hi Francesca, sorry for the late response, currently working overseas with limited internet. I used regular thread but a ballpoint needle and zig-zag stitch.
May 28, 2008, 12.39 PMby francescafrancesca
did you use nylon stretchy sewing thread or just regular?
Apr 11, 2008, 10.26 PMby emilykate
Yeah it is a super retro swimsuit you have made! That is such a great fabric. Well done!
Apr 2, 2008, 08.44 PMby fikshunpink7
I love the ingenuity! I would have done the same as you. Up sized and made it to my specs.
Mar 30, 2008, 05.25 PMby cicaktoes
Thank you! I suppose the bottoms are quite retro this way (I seem to recall a photo of my Mom in the 70s wearing a similar bikini!), but I like how it turned out. No, the fabric was not difficult to find. They had quite a good selection at my local fabric store. It was about US $17 a yard, but I only had to buy 1/2 yard, as the width of the fabric was about 2 yards.
Mar 30, 2008, 12.09 PMby olar
Good job and idea on using Emily Kate pattern! was the fabric expensive or difficult to find?