Replies

1. 
   FitnessNut | Apr 10, 2004 02:10am | #1

   Its easier and faster with a serger, but no, you don't need to use one to make a leotard. Before buying my serger, I used a stretch overlock stitch on my sewing machine when making something of stretchy lycra fabrics. Just be sure to test your stitch by sewing a sample seam and stretching it....you don't want popped seams on your finished garment.

   Good luck!

   Sandy

1. 
   Hansi | Apr 10, 2004 04:53am | #2

   Thank you!

2. 
   LindaG | Apr 10, 2004 04:32pm | #3

   You might also want to look at instructions for making swimsuits.   For the edging of swimsuits where the elastic is folded under, you might try a twin needle with wooly nylon in the bobbin.  Also, check that the elastic can be sewn without stretching permanently. 

1. 
   Hansi | Apr 10, 2004 05:37pm | #4

   Thank you for the tip.  I would like to try this since I have 2 girls taking dance and the clothing seems a little overpriced.

1. 
   Jean | Apr 10, 2004 06:05pm | #5

   If your elastic stretches out a bit when you sew on it, try giving it a good shot of steam, without touching it with the iron of course. That should make it behave again.

1. 
   Hansi | Apr 11, 2004 06:13am | #6

   Thank you for the tip!

   Jay

2. 
   anneelsberry | Apr 12, 2004 11:09pm | #11

   If you don't want to sew leotards (fussy danged things) try http://www.discountdance.com.  The basic Bloch camisole leotard is about $10, usually meets dress code for dance schools and is probably cheaper than making one.  Lasts forever, too.

   (I'm a dancer and the mom of two -- just wait until pointe shoes!)

   Edited 4/12/2004 4:13 pm ET by Pomona

1. 
   Hansi | Apr 13, 2004 02:12am | #12

   Great tip!  Thank you!

3. 
   SkiNsew | Apr 11, 2004 03:49pm | #7

   Here is a site that has great patterns for leotards and very good instructions.  The instructions are  detailed for a sewing machine or for a serger.  Just follow the ones for the sewing machine.

   http://www.kwiksew.com/

   Mary

1. 
   Hansi | Apr 11, 2004 04:39pm | #8

   Thank you!

4. 
   suesew | Apr 11, 2004 11:18pm | #9

   Hi. Don,t forget to use a ball point needle with stretch lycra. There is also a stretch double needle 4.0 that will give you very professional results with topstitching elastic. You'll be amazed how much money you'll save making your own.

1. 
   Hansi | Apr 11, 2004 11:59pm | #10

   Thank you for the tip, Sue.  I've made dance skirts for my girls (just traced an existing one--takes about half an hour to make; save $30) but never a leotard.  I'm looking forward to trying. 

   Jay