Virtual Swimwear Workshop
Stretch your skills and make a splash this summer in a handmade swimsuit! Follow along in this virtual workshop and learn to sew a one-piece or two-piece with different style options. Get comfortable sewing with stretch fabrics and elastic, and finally feel confident at the pool in a one-of-a-kind suit.
Pattern: Cottesloe Swimsuit by Megan Nielsen Patterns
- Cottesloe sizes 0-20
- Cottesloe sizes 14-30
- Mini Cottesloe for ages 3-12
This pattern is perfect for those who are new to sewing swimwear. The design is simple but you will be able to practice the basic techniques you need to move on to more advanced designs. There are four versions of the suit you can make: View A, a low-back one-piece with optional back ties and shelf bra; View B, a mid-scoop-back one-piece; View C, a two-piece with scoop-neck top and low-rise bottoms; and View D, a two-piece with high-rise bottoms and elasticated fabric bands at the underbust and waistline.
** Pattern and project materials NOT provided. ** You are responsible for purchasing the pattern from the designer, as well as printing & assembling the pattern pieces and shopping for fabric and notions.
This is an online course where you will have access to lessons broken into helpful detailed topics that you can play, pause, rewind and skip as much as you need. Your account saves your progress and the class does not expire.
Your Course Curriculum includes over 25 individual lessons, totaling almost 3 hours of content, including:
- Taking measurements and reading size charts
- Grading sizes and making minor design changes (waist rise, neckline depth)
- Calculating stretch percentage
- Cutting and sewing with spandex fabric and swim lining using a regular sewing machine or serger (I show both machines)
- Stretching and attaching elastic to edges
- Topstitching with zig-zag stitches
- Attaching lining, foam cups and gusset
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner; Intermediate; Advanced. Sewing with spandex and elastic requires finesse, and confidence is key! Some garment-making experience is required. Knowledge of sewing with knits in general is recommended.
Once you purchase the class, you will receive an email to create an account that will give you access to all the course content. The site saves your progress and shows which lessons you've completed so you never lose your spot. And your course never expires! Each lesson has its own discussion board where you can post questions that the instructor will receive directly.
*Model photo courtesy of Megan Nielsen
Check out the introduction video here:
