Swimsuit often looks similar to lingerie, but materials and accessories are very different and must have certain features.
SWIMSUIT MATERIALS
Dense, elastic knitted fabrics are used for sewing. Proper material stretches both along the grain and the weft.
In addition, the fabric must be resistant to chlorinated, salt water and prolonged exposure to sunlight. Therefore it is necessary to choose jersey with a synthetic composition. This requirement is also valid for elastic bands, used when sewing a swimsuit.
The fabric must dry quickly, not to shine through and not to lose its shape when wet.
The most common material for sewing a swimsuit is biflex. Also microfiber and lycra can be used as a basic material. To prevent the transparence of the swimsuit after wetting, parts of the bodice and panties are duplicated with a lining. You can use less dense synthetic knitted fabric with plastic characteristics similar to those of the material on the top, or elastic net of medium and high density as the lining. Or you can make a two-sided swimsuit by using the main material for the lining.
SWIMSUIT ACCESSORIES
Very often in separate swimsuits, the bust consists of foam cups. For a tighter fit and to prevent stretching, the cuts of the swimsuit are treated with an elastic band. Polyester and latex elastic bands are suitable. In some manufacturers you can find special elastic bands labeled "for swimwear". It is important that the metal clasps, decorative parts and fittings for the straps (rings, adjusters) are of good quality and are not "afraid" of chlorine and salt water.
NEEDLES AND THREADS
Use stretch or super stretch needles to sew your leotard. Needle size should be selected based on the density of the fabric, 75-85 number. You can also use a double needle, also marked "stretch", to process the cuts.
As for threads, either regular polyester or textured threads will do. Textured threads are more elastic, but less durable. That's why it's recommended to use them only on the buttonholes of an overlock or a sewing machine.
DRESS FORM FOR MAKING A SWIMSUIT
Our dress form Penelope with marking lines is perfect for sewing swimwear or other underwear. Ready-made markings that allow you to check the balance of the product make your work easier. If the balance of the clothes is out of balance, when trying on a dress form you can immediately identify this defect. A heat-resistant dress form filling and a cover are resistant for steaming. Besides, the correct anatomic shapes of Penelope will help to get ideal relief seams and darts.