I am 4’11” In my 60’s and would wear a size 1X Petite if they existed. I have spent the day in stores trying on bathing suits. now that I have stopped alternatly crying and screaming, I need to make a new bathing suit. what I want is to understand how to measure myself against the pattern. I am between a c & d cup and the commercial cups are set too far apart. I can’t seem to figure out where to shorten the suit to get the waist, bust and hips where they belong. tell me that there is another petite plus out there. and that she understands how to deal with this.
Ceeshell
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Kwik Sew has a book on making bathing suits and exercise wear that has patterns included. It covers many alterations as well. I have used the patterns many times, but have not done them with the cups in them. I like the patterns tho, and the instructions. It is one place to look to start perhaps. Cathy
I think you should look for a basic swimsuit pattern by Stretch & Sew. I've had good luck with their patterns, and specifically their book that has swimsuit patterns in it (Sew Splashy). I'm slightly plus sized and altitudinally challenged for my weight. Sometimes Joann's carries their basic pattern in a round rack along with Green Pepper patterns.
I make all my swimsuits - I'm 50, 5' tall and very small. All the stores sell in that size is teeny bikinis not suitable for 50 year old grandma no matter how small. I use the "Sew Splashy" by Stretch and Sew exclusively. They have fantastic instructions on fitting, adding bra cups, lining, etc. I prefer their patterns to Kwik Sew as the rear end seems to have more room in it, better coverage, and doesn't ride up as much.
I made a lot of swimsuits in the 1980's for myself and my daughter. Loved making them, had great fun and they seemed to allow for an amazing amount of creativity. Back then we just lined the suits in our fleshtone and didn't worry much about making cups. I'm not sure we'd feel very comfortable without underwires today. Gail
I also make my own swim suits. I have knocked off patterns from old suits that I liked. You can make a bra for the inside by just copying the outside of the swimsuit down to the level where the bra ends. Use this to make an insert with flesh colored lycra, insert bra cups that you can buy at any fabric store, apply a strip of finishing elastic for the "shelf" and then sewing this "bra" into the swim suit. If this is not clear, any of the swim suit patterns should have pictures and will help you to understand it.
Another suggestion that I would offer is to make Tankini's rather than 1 piece suits. It avoids the problem of having to get the length to fit properly and is sooooo handy for those potty trips, especially if you have to take an inquisitive toddler with you.
Good luck, Mary
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