Sewing your own swimwear doesn’t have to be complicated. Meet Maggie! This two-piece swimsuit has a scoop neckline, wide-set straps, high-waisted bottoms, and a cheeky cut at the legs.
Our instructions will show you how to use swim elastic throughout. This bathing suit is also fully lined, so you’ll learn how to sew swimwear with a beautiful finish.
Crosby is wearing a curvy size 14 Maggie swimsuit with 3/4 inch added to the bottom leg side seam. Her measurements are 43 1/2 inches, 34 inches, 47 inches, and she is 5 feet 10 inches tall.
This fabric is the Swimwear Solids Nylon Spandex from The Fabric Fairy.
Follow this month’s pattern hack to learn how to add ruffles to the neckline and leg openings of the Maggie swimsuit.
This fabric is the Swimwear Solids Nylon Spandex from The Fabric Fairy.
Fabric & Fit
Fabrics to shop: For the main fabric, look for nylon Lycra swimwear fabrics with 4-way stretch and 60% to 80% stretch. You can use your main fabric for the lining or look for lining fabric with the same stretch requirements. If you are new to working with swimwear, read this guide or join the sewalong in the Classroom.
Notions: You’ll need swimwear elastic for this project—and a few seaming tricks and nylon thread can help. Read Swimwear Basics to learn more.
Fabrics to avoid: Fabrics with 2-way stretch will not work for this pattern.
Fit: Swimwear is designed with negative ease so that it fits close to your body and stays on when you're swimming. Pay attention to the finished garment measurement chart to find the right amount of ease for you. If it helps, you can measure a swimsuit you currently own.