Sun-Smart Swimwear

SwimStyle.com.au

Skill Level

For those with some experience sewing with activewear and swimwear knits.

Size Range and Fitting

Size XS to 3XL for busts 32 inches to 44 inches, waists 25 inches to 36 inches and hips 34-1/2 inches to 46 inches. Our tester did not see a finished garment measurement size chart in the pattern. However, she found that all pieces have appropriate negative ease. You may want to compare the pattern to existing activewear in a size you favor.

Fabrics

Swimwear spandex with four-way stretch, elastic, and lining made specifically for swimwear. All pieces can be made in non-swimwear fabrics for daily wear. 

Photo: Jack Deutsch

Style and Sewing Details

The High Waist Collective bikini has a square neckline, complete with a third layer in front to accommodate molded bra cups, and a high-waist bottom. The Rashie Grace design is a one-piece, unlined swimsuit with an exposed center-front zipper, raglan-style sleeves in half or full-length that are finished with hemline bands. The suit can be cropped to make a rash guard or sun shirt. The Rashie suit can be made as a bodysuit in non-swimwear knits. 

• All can be sewn entirely on a traditional sewing machine, but a serger will speed things up.

• Illustrations are accurate for the listed tasks. In addition to the main guide sheets, there are supplements in the form of tutorials showing alternative ways.

• The bikini bottom leg elastics are hidden between the lining and main fabric seam without visible topstitching. The tester recommends replacing the 1/4-inch-wide elastic on all the legs with 3/8-inch-wide, as it will be easier to sew. To accommodate the wider width, add 1/8 inch to the seam allowance when cutting the leg openings. 

• Our seamstress suggests inserting the Rashie zipper in the standard way and adding an internal zipper shield.