McCalls’s

I whipped this up for McCalls Let’s Sew Pink challenge

Overview:

Sewing Time:

I wasn’t going to enter the Let’s Sew Pink challenge, but I did. Sewing challenges have a way of motivating me to return to sewing after a break.

Pattern:

To participate in the challenge you were to sew one of the selected patterns in any shade of pink. As much as I don’t need a swimsuit I decided to sew up McCalls 8329. I like both of the top views, but chose B because I feel like its more unique of the two. There is only one choice for the bottoms so I used view C. They hit right at or just below the waist and I knew I wanted them to cover my belly button so I raised them 2”.

Despite what many may think, sewing swimsuits isn’t hard. Or at least it doesn’t have to be. The only tricky thing with the suit is installing the ring in the bikini top. if your ring can open I recommend sewing the channels and then inserting the ring. You do have to be comfortable will sewing elastic because that is necessary for many areas. Truly though if you have a little patience swim suits are really quite simple.

I debated adding the ties to the top, but I went with it and I think I’ll keep them. Though if I make this again I will double the length so that I can tie them in the front.

Fabric:

My main reason for selecting a swim pattern was because I had this one yard piece of nylon swim knit from Joann. I wasn’t even sure why I grabbed it as pink isn’t really my color, but it was right on time.

Joann lists this knit as a performance fabric so it’s great for leggings, sports bras and swimsuits. It’s available in 11 colors, see here.

Modifications:

I raised the waist of the bottoms by 2” to cover my belly button.

Lessons Learned:

If you have a ring that opens, sew the channels for the ring then thread the ring through the channels.

Summary:

Pattern: McCalls 8329-8330

Pattern Description: Ring embellished swimsuit set has gather details. Views include two tops with straps, high cut bikini bottom and one-piece swimsuit.

Sizing: 4-12, 14-22, 20W-28W, 30W-38W

Does it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope? Yes

Were the instructions easy to follow: Yes

Would I recommend it to others? If you want a bikini yes!

Let’s Sew Pink: McCalls 8329-8330