How to Make a Bathing Suit

When summer approaches, most women start their search for the perfect bathing suit. It can take quite some time to find a suit that is the right style and color. But to find one that fits well and flatters the figure can be nearly impossible and very costly. Learning to assemble your own bathing suit is one answer to this problem. With a bit of effort, you can make exactly what you are looking for---and at a low cost.

Things You'll Need

• Spandex material
• Thread
• Bra
• Paper
• Ruler
• Pins
• Scissors
• Tape measure
• Old swimsuit
• Sewing machine
• Safety pin

Instructions

1. Choose the material you will be using. Make sure it is either Spandex or a fabric like cotton, that has a natural stretch. Purchase thread in the same color.

2. 

   Place one of your bra cups on a piece of paper and with a ruler draw an angled line down the sides of the bra. To complete the triangle draw a half circle from one line to the next. You should have a triangle pattern for your top. Pin it on your material and cut two pieces.

3. Cut out three, 2 1/2-inch wide strips. They will be used as ties. Make sure the strips are long enough to fit around your body, with a little extra to tie in a bow. You can make extra-long strings to tie around your waist or legs for added style.

4. 

   Use an old swimsuit bottom as a pattern. Cut all the seams of the swimsuit bottom. Cut the sides off of the bottom. Pin the pattern on your material and cut out one piece for the front bottom and one for the back bottom.

5. 

   Check that you now have two pieces for your top; three strips for ties; and front and back bottom pieces.

6. 

   Fold the strips and sew to make strings. When sewing the bottom of the top pieces and the tops of the swimsuit bottom, remember that the strings are going to be threaded above the seam, so leave enough space to do so. Use a safety pin to thread the strings. Cut the last string in two pieces and sew to the top of each swimsuit triangle piece.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a ribbon instead of making straps, for a different look. Add gemstones to your bathing suit for sparkle.

• Only use Spandex or stretch cotton material for this project.