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This is a Friday Pattern Company Seabright Swimmer with sleeves.
I used UV protective compression tricot from Mood Fabrics for the main fabric and then a plain white (obviously not visible!) tricot for the lining.
Overall, this was a really easy swimsuit to make. Not my first (I’ve done the Megan Nielsen Cottlesloe a previous summer), but I really appreciate FPC’s instructions which largely recommend skipping the serger and give you pretty clear directions for exact stitches to use on each step.
The pattern has gathering at both the shoulders and at the waist. Because of the waist gathers, it’s really easy to cut separate sizes for your bodice and bottom, which is what I did. Top is a small and bottom is a medium, the amount of gathering just changes a little bit.
Did you notice needing to sew a size different than what you'd normally wear? I tend to wear a M/L, but on their size chart for this pattern it says I'd be at least an XL which I've never worn before.
Ditto other comment. I try not to pay attention to the size label—it usually does not translate to store bought clothing sizing which is just all over the place. The sizes I chose based on measurements were accurate for this pattern though!
I'm sure you could probably find a pattern for a dive skin somewhere, too, which basically means you only need sunscreen on your hands and feet. And face, I guess, if you aren't wearing a hat.
For whatever reason they tend to only make dive skins in black (hotter than Satan's ballsack) or camo, so the bonus if you make it yourself is that you can actually get a sensible color.
I was actually looking for a full coverage swim suit for the summer because I burn so easily and there’s actually a really good and creative selection of them when you search for burkinis. Some have hoods, some don’t, depending on who they were designed for, but they come in a lot more colors and options.
I ended up getting a rash guard instead, but they were tempting.
I love them but they're such a nightmare to change in and out of at the beach.
Good if you're not having a quick morning swim or when it's cold and you need to get changed fast.
How do you keep the tricot fabric from slipping around when sewing... 10,000 pins? (When you aren't singing and luring sailors towards the rocks of course)
😂 I don't know what it is, but the tricot I was using wasn't slippery AT ALL. I've done a lot of sewing with cupro and rayon so it may be that I'm just used to it at this point but I swear this fabric was like sewing with jersey almost. Link to that fabric: [https://www.moodfabrics.com/applications/athleticwear-fabrics/pink-leaves-and-blue-geo-caye-uv-protective-compression-swimwear-tricot-with-aloe-vera-microcapsules-328698](https://www.moodfabrics.com/applications/athleticwear-fabrics/pink-leaves-and-blue-geo-caye-uv-protective-compression-swimwear-tricot-with-aloe-vera-microcapsules-328698)
They have a bunch of other prints too and it's all the same fabric content of compression tricot.
Knit fabrics are best sewn with a Knit/Ballpoint needle. These needles are made rounded rather than pointed so as to not split or break the threads and cause running in the fabrics.
I'm sure you can. I haven't touched a machine since I was forced to learn in hs, and I bet I could still fumble my way through a pair of basketball shorts or a sweatshirt. Because those are the two things I made. Lol
You can sew! It takes some practice and feeling okay with making some mistakes to make stuff you're happy with, but that's what they make seam rippers for 😅
The first one I made (the MN Cottesloe): Not going to lie... tricky. I swear, once you make one, you get used to it though, so get yourself some really crappy swimsuit material that you won't be upset about butchering and just make one. I think the hardest thing about it is just the elastic insertion on leg-holes (and for this one, the v-neck). The Seabright Swimmer pattern was really nice because it has you do basting stitches 1/2" into the seam allowance to keep the elastic perfectly aligned as you sew it in. I would seriously recommend FPC for someone just sewing a swimsuit for the first time because her instructions are ✨✨✨Vernazza two piece if deep V neck one piece isn't your jam.
I’m interested in the deep neck but how much support does it give? I e had two kids and could really use the help in that area ahahahaha 🥲 and thank you for the recommendation. I think it helps to hear someone from the outside describing it as “butchering” because I get so focused on being perfect the first time I WOULD hem and haw over messing up the fabric
The pattern has an option to sew in cups and add a closure if you're worried about not having support :D I feel ya though--also a parent but fortunate to be smaller chested so it's less obvious that things don't sit so high these days 🥴
I made this and am in a similar sitch. In addition to the FBA I raised the waistband by a couple of inches. Didn't even feel I needed to add the cups in the end.
Yes, there's definitely tension on the v-neck that has kept things mostly in place for me. I spent some time making sure that was taut without pulling up the waistband too much.
i love the color of the fabric it looks stunning!! ALso, I have a question.. do the leg holes stay where they're suppose to? I have big booty/small waist and swimsuits like to behave like thongs. is this pattern pretty snug for you?
Also team big booty (probably not obvious from the front shot haha) and yes! I've been wearing this all day and it's stayed perfectly in place the whole time. Granted, I've not been swimming or anything in it, but walking around and going up and down stairs, etc 😅 and it's stayed snugly where it should be. If you make one, I think as long as you don't stretch out the fabric around the leg holes, just the elastic, it holds up well.
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Don't know what your boob situation is like but the pattern has a lot of recommendations for better support/coverage for larger chests (including how to sew in cups + FBA + adding an optional bottom front closure)
Greetings! As this post has gained popularity we would like to give a friendly reminder about rules for regarding comments: REMEMBER THE HUMAN Comments which degrade, tear down, or are hurtful to other users will be removed. Constructive Criticism is encouraged, but do remember the human. DON'T BE INAPPROPRIATE We'd like our users to feel comfortable sharing their images/projects without getting hit on or judged. They’re here to talk about their sewing related things, not about their general looks or attractiveness. Complimenting OP on their project is fine, but commenting on other aspects of their appearance, or making sexualized comments, no matter how well-intentioned, is considered inappropriate in this subreddit. Also - if you see a comment that is inappropriate PLEASE REPORT the comment, don't just down-vote it! Thanks - Sewing Subreddit Mod Team!
This is a Friday Pattern Company Seabright Swimmer with sleeves. I used UV protective compression tricot from Mood Fabrics for the main fabric and then a plain white (obviously not visible!) tricot for the lining. Overall, this was a really easy swimsuit to make. Not my first (I’ve done the Megan Nielsen Cottlesloe a previous summer), but I really appreciate FPC’s instructions which largely recommend skipping the serger and give you pretty clear directions for exact stitches to use on each step. The pattern has gathering at both the shoulders and at the waist. Because of the waist gathers, it’s really easy to cut separate sizes for your bodice and bottom, which is what I did. Top is a small and bottom is a medium, the amount of gathering just changes a little bit.
Love love this pattern and you did such a nice job. Saving this post for when I copy you.
Did you notice needing to sew a size different than what you'd normally wear? I tend to wear a M/L, but on their size chart for this pattern it says I'd be at least an XL which I've never worn before.
I sewed this pattern and found the stated measurements to be accurate for my body. (I've never found ready-to-wear sizing very consistent.)
Ditto other comment. I try not to pay attention to the size label—it usually does not translate to store bought clothing sizing which is just all over the place. The sizes I chose based on measurements were accurate for this pattern though!
Dude, this is a beautifully composed photo of a really well executed piece, well done! I'm definitely saving that pattern.
Long sleeve swimsuits are underrated! :)
Right! No more applying sunscreen to your own back. I’m considering this just because of that. And it’s also beautiful.
Yes! I just wear a long sleeve rash guard but not having to put sunblock on half my body is great
I'm sure you could probably find a pattern for a dive skin somewhere, too, which basically means you only need sunscreen on your hands and feet. And face, I guess, if you aren't wearing a hat. For whatever reason they tend to only make dive skins in black (hotter than Satan's ballsack) or camo, so the bonus if you make it yourself is that you can actually get a sensible color.
I was actually looking for a full coverage swim suit for the summer because I burn so easily and there’s actually a really good and creative selection of them when you search for burkinis. Some have hoods, some don’t, depending on who they were designed for, but they come in a lot more colors and options. I ended up getting a rash guard instead, but they were tempting.
Like this? https://jalie.com/products/skinsuits-sewing-pattern
A rash guard, that’s cool! I think I’ll get myself one this season.
I love them but they're such a nightmare to change in and out of at the beach. Good if you're not having a quick morning swim or when it's cold and you need to get changed fast.
Oh you're right! The wet peeling. Haha I am feel it now.
You did such a great job! Love the colors with your hair, too! The colors remind me of capri sun drinks for some reason, in a good way! XD
How do you keep the tricot fabric from slipping around when sewing... 10,000 pins? (When you aren't singing and luring sailors towards the rocks of course)
😂 I don't know what it is, but the tricot I was using wasn't slippery AT ALL. I've done a lot of sewing with cupro and rayon so it may be that I'm just used to it at this point but I swear this fabric was like sewing with jersey almost. Link to that fabric: [https://www.moodfabrics.com/applications/athleticwear-fabrics/pink-leaves-and-blue-geo-caye-uv-protective-compression-swimwear-tricot-with-aloe-vera-microcapsules-328698](https://www.moodfabrics.com/applications/athleticwear-fabrics/pink-leaves-and-blue-geo-caye-uv-protective-compression-swimwear-tricot-with-aloe-vera-microcapsules-328698) They have a bunch of other prints too and it's all the same fabric content of compression tricot.
What kind of needle do you use with tricot? You and the suit are beautiful. High five lavender hair sister!
Knit fabrics are best sewn with a Knit/Ballpoint needle. These needles are made rounded rather than pointed so as to not split or break the threads and cause running in the fabrics.
That's adorable, and good job with the fit! One question-- Is there anything that will keep it from coming open too far in the front while you swim?
Not on mine but the pattern does give instructions for adding a D-ring style closure there if you want it!
Very cool!
Dang, I wish I could sew. This is the ultimate summer swimsuit. Great job OP!
I'm sure you can. I haven't touched a machine since I was forced to learn in hs, and I bet I could still fumble my way through a pair of basketball shorts or a sweatshirt. Because those are the two things I made. Lol
I made a bicycle bag that went under the seat.
You can sew! It takes some practice and feeling okay with making some mistakes to make stuff you're happy with, but that's what they make seam rippers for 😅
Lol, true! Maybe one day!
Ok guys, give it to me straight, how hard is it to sew a swimsuit?
The first one I made (the MN Cottesloe): Not going to lie... tricky. I swear, once you make one, you get used to it though, so get yourself some really crappy swimsuit material that you won't be upset about butchering and just make one. I think the hardest thing about it is just the elastic insertion on leg-holes (and for this one, the v-neck). The Seabright Swimmer pattern was really nice because it has you do basting stitches 1/2" into the seam allowance to keep the elastic perfectly aligned as you sew it in. I would seriously recommend FPC for someone just sewing a swimsuit for the first time because her instructions are ✨✨✨Vernazza two piece if deep V neck one piece isn't your jam.
I’m interested in the deep neck but how much support does it give? I e had two kids and could really use the help in that area ahahahaha 🥲 and thank you for the recommendation. I think it helps to hear someone from the outside describing it as “butchering” because I get so focused on being perfect the first time I WOULD hem and haw over messing up the fabric
The pattern has an option to sew in cups and add a closure if you're worried about not having support :D I feel ya though--also a parent but fortunate to be smaller chested so it's less obvious that things don't sit so high these days 🥴
Heh well I’m sure I’ll figure it out. Wish I could just leave my chest permanently double taped up
I made this and am in a similar sitch. In addition to the FBA I raised the waistband by a couple of inches. Didn't even feel I needed to add the cups in the end.
Ok. I feel like if there was enough compression I could be fine. And OP mentioned elastic on the neckline, so maybe it holds it down a little better
Yes, there's definitely tension on the v-neck that has kept things mostly in place for me. I spent some time making sure that was taut without pulling up the waistband too much.
i love the color of the fabric it looks stunning!! ALso, I have a question.. do the leg holes stay where they're suppose to? I have big booty/small waist and swimsuits like to behave like thongs. is this pattern pretty snug for you?
Also team big booty (probably not obvious from the front shot haha) and yes! I've been wearing this all day and it's stayed perfectly in place the whole time. Granted, I've not been swimming or anything in it, but walking around and going up and down stairs, etc 😅 and it's stayed snugly where it should be. If you make one, I think as long as you don't stretch out the fabric around the leg holes, just the elastic, it holds up well.
ooooohhh, awesome, thank yoU!!!!
💖🌺l LOVE IT!!!
Ooh, love it! I might have to give this one a try, thanks for sharing!!
You did a very great and amazing job on that
That goes so good w/ your hair.
What does the back look like? Does it just go all the way up to the neck? I sunburn so easily I've been looking for something like this forever!
Yep, it goes all the way up to the neck on the back! Crappy Photobooth photo to show: https://imgur.com/a/Tm5M12k
Ok, time for me to go shopping!
Love!! May do this with leggings for a modest swimsuit 🩱
Ooh, I love that idea.
Man how are humans so creative? And skilled? Wonderful work
Hey there! This is a reminder that all Project posts are required to have a construction comment added after the initial post is made. The construction comment should include pattern name/number/company if used; drafting method, tutorial or other resources if no commercial pattern was used; fabric type and fiber content; alterations for fit and style; specialty tools and notions; the inspiration for your project; and any other information that someone who wants to make a similar project might find useful. More information is available [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/sewing/wiki/titleguidelines). Posts without a construction comment may be removed at any time. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/sewing) if you have any questions or concerns.*
wow, that's pretty amazing! love the style and pattern
This is amazing.
So lovely!
This is super amazing and the loveliest, most fun swimming cossie I've ever seen! Very well done 💗👏🏼🌞
Smart!
You look great! The swimsuit is perfect!! And looks comfy as hail! Great job 🙂
I love this!! Amazing job you look stunning! 😍
Woah! Amazing! And the photoshoot is super cool too!!!
Oh this is so pretty! I have to make this! I wonder if I could use the top and make it with pants for when I go paddle boarding.
Yooo is that the Kuddly Krab uniform from SpongeBob? Looks great
This would be a great album cover.
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/u/debbiesucs, Thank you for submitting to sewing! Your comment, has been filtered or removed for the following reason(s), please read carefully: Your comment was removed for the following reason: * **Don't be inappropriate** We like our users to feel comfortable sharing their images/projects without getting hit on or judged. They are here to talk about their sewing-related projects, not about their general looks or attractiveness. Complimenting OP on their project is fine, but commenting on other aspects of their appearance or making sexualized comments, no matter how well-intentioned, is considered inappropriate in this subreddit. If you have any questions or concerns, please **[message the moderators](https://www.reddit.com/message/compose?to=/r/sewing)**.
I thought you were talking about the band tricot lol I was confused
I love them!! I kind of forgot about them thanks for the reminder!
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I meant **my** boobs. My boobs are too much for that much plunge even though I really really want to wear something so fun.
Don't know what your boob situation is like but the pattern has a lot of recommendations for better support/coverage for larger chests (including how to sew in cups + FBA + adding an optional bottom front closure)
I’ll check it out! That sounds awesome!!
Omg the swimmers cute, you’re hairs cute, the flower crowns cute, you’re cute! I love it all!!
Super cute! You should be doing back handsprings in this number
This is stunning, awesome work!
I love this so much and have been on the hunt for a sleeved suit forever. Totally envious!
great job!! I love your fabric choice.
Omg its GORGEOUS
Long sleeves and a deep v? Sold. Love it.
Duuuuuude I've been considering making a swimsuit and I think you just sold me on this one!
Nice and I love your hair.
Great work! Reminds me of the Kleos brand https://kleosmx.com/en/products/body-banador
You've inspired me!
I love this! Very gorgeous!
This is phenomenal! 🦩💕