How to Buy Bikini Fabric

You can make a sporty or sexy bikini by visiting the local fabric store. All you need is a simple pattern and time for a little trial and error. Regardless of whether you're making outfits for the swim team or trying to save money on summer wear, it doesn't take much know-how to get started on a bikini-sewing project. The top manufacturers offer all kinds of Lycra and spandex fabrics, so you can make your own unique, custom-fitted bikini at home, in no time at all.

Instructions

1. Hit the fabric store and select Lycra or Spandex-swimsuit material. The most expensive material is usually a four-way stretch spandex, which tends to last longer and provide a more comfortable fit than two-way stretch fabric. Check the spandex-to-nylon ratio, as fabrics with a higher concentration of spandex tend to be more expensive.

2. Test the fabric by stretching a small piece taut and releasing it. This will give you an idea of how the fabric will respond to wear and tear. Hold the fabric in a stretched-out position to get an idea of what it will look like when it's wet.

3. Pick a high-polyester-content fabric if you're going to wear your bikini in a high-chlorine-content swimming pool. Buy high nylon content if you're planning on exposing your bikini to salt water.

4. Select a color or print. When choosing colors, remember to mix and match tops and bottoms to create a stylish and flattering contrast.

5. Ask the salesperson whether she has any extra spandex fabric for you to use to experiment with making a bikini. Buy samples if possible, so you don't waste expensive fabric on a tester bikini.

6. Buy swimsuit lining to make sure your bikini isn't transparent. Get extra lining just in case you need more coverage, especially if you're making a lightly colored bikini bottom.

7. Pick up elastic to help ensure the fit of your bikini. Ask the salesperson whether he sells elastic designed for chlorine exposure. Refer to the swimsuit pattern for width requirements.

8. Pick up some sheer or lightweight material, and use it to create a fun and flirty bikini wrap.

Tips & Warnings

• Change the needle often when sewing with spandex, as the material tends to dull needles.

• Check the label to see whether any of the fabrics feature a built-in SPF. Many of the newer manufacturers include this feature for an additional cost, and it's worth it to protect your skin.

• Preshrink spandex fabrics before you cut them.

• Don't use cotton thread on bikinis. Use a nylon thread, with a little stretch, instead.