How to Make Swimsuits,
Lingerie, & Empire Dresses

Instructions in this class show how the garments shown below can be created.
Corded Bikini Top and Fitted Briefs		Tied Bikini Top and Bottom		Bikini Bra and Thong		Bikini Dress
Basic Bandeau and Fitted Briefs		Ring Bandeau and Bikini Bottom		Bandeau Swimsuit		Twisted Bandeau and Skirted Briefs

The three sessions of this class include the following.

1. Creating a Bikini Top and Variations
2. Creating a Bandeau Top and Variations
3. Creating Bikini Bottoms, Fitted Briefs, & Thongs

An Introduction

A Runway Show

The videos show both how to fit someone else and how to fit yourself without a sewing buddy. If you have someone to help you, the process is easier. This fitting buddy does not need to know how to sew. However, if you do not have a willing fitting buddy who will take whatever time is necessary to fit you correctly, you are better doing it yourself. You will see the abbreviations DIY (Do-It-Yourself) for these videos.

This pattern design system is unlike most pattern making systems because you start by visualizing the design on the body. Once you have established the look you want, you then measure and draft the patterns. These patterns require little or no additional fitting. However it is always a good idea to verify the fit and look before finalizing the garment. The video below illustrates the process for creating a bikini top.

Designing a Bikini Top

We will be using my book How to Make Custom-Fit Bras & Lingerie as a course text. Specific references will be made to various pages of this book. The patterns are drafted from measurements so coipes of the pages needed to record these measurements are included as separate PDF files which you can download and print. For more information about this book, visit my website How to Make Custom-Fit Bras & Lingerie. You should also be able to check out this book from your local library or order it through Amazon.com. These three weeks show how to create a variety of different garments.

Supplies
The videos will demonstrate how to create the patterns using Dotted Pattern Making Paper. The supplies for the individual garments are the specific fabric you want to use and some elastic as indicated in the video below.

Fabric and Notions