Dive into sewing swimwear

by Gemma Davison June 24, 2024

Summer is here, and what better way to celebrate than by sewing your own custom swimwear? We're thrilled to announce the launch of our new collection of swim fabrics and supplies. As always, our products are diverted from landfill, allowing you to create beautiful, sustainable swimwear pieces while helping the planet.

Sewing your own swimwear can be a rewarding and fun experience. Here are some expert tips to help you get started, especially when working with essential materials like rubber elastic and power mesh.

1. Choose the Right Fabric

Swimwear requires fabrics that are durable, stretchy, and able to withstand water, sun, and chlorine. Our new collection offers a variety high-quality swim fabrics that are perfect for any style you have in mind.

2. Working with Rubber Elastic

Rubber elastic is a crucial component for swimwear as it provides the necessary stretch and recovery to keep your swimwear snug and secure.

Selection: Choose a high-quality rubber elastic, ideally one that's chlorine-resistant to ensure longevity.
Cutting: Cut the elastic to the required length, usually a bit shorter than the fabric it's being sewn to, to ensure a snug fit.
Sewing: When attaching the elastic, use a zigzag stitch for flexibility. Stretch the elastic slightly as you sew it onto the fabric, ensuring even distribution.
Placement: Sew the elastic around the leg openings, waistbands, and any other areas that need to stay in place. This will prevent the fabric from sagging or shifting.

3. Incorporating Power Mesh

Power mesh is a lightweight, stretchy fabric that provides support and structure, making it perfect for lining swimwear.

Cutting: Cut the power mesh to match the size and shape of your main swim fabric pieces. It should lay flat and smooth when placed on top of the fabric.
Layering: Place the power mesh underneath the main fabric for added support. This is particularly useful in areas like the bust or tummy where extra hold is desired.
Sewing: Use a stretch stitch or a serger to sew the power mesh and swim fabric together. Ensure the seams are smooth to avoid discomfort against the skin.

4. Using Wooly Nylon

Wooly nylon is a stretchy, textured thread that is perfect for sewing swimwear due to its softness and excellent recovery.

Threading: Wooly nylon is best used in the loopers of a serger. It can also be used in the bobbin of a sewing machine for added stretch.
Benefits: This thread provides a smooth, stretchy finish that is less likely to irritate the skin, making it ideal for swimwear seams.
Seams: Use wooly nylon in the serger loopers to create strong, flexible seams. It can handle the constant stretching and movement typical of swimwear.
Hems and Edges: Wooly nylon is excellent for finishing edges and hems, giving a soft, professional finish that stretches with the fabric.

4. General Sewing Tips

Needles: Use a ballpoint needle to prevent snagging the fabric.

Stitches: Opt for stretch stitches or zigzag stitches to allow the fabric to stretch without breaking the seams.

Test Runs: Always test your stitches on a scrap piece of fabric to adjust tension and stitch length before sewing your final pieces.

Creating your own swimwear is a fantastic way to express your style while contributing to a sustainable future. With our new collection of swim fabrics, rubber elastics, and power mesh, you'll have everything you need to make a splash this summer.