Technically Speaking
Perfect
in the Pool,
Brilliant
at the Beach
By Cate Purcell
We all know how disappointing it is to create
a garment and not have it fi t. A comfortable,
attractive swimsuit fi ts properly, is neither too large
nor too small, and conforms to the contours of
the body without sagging, straining or wrinkling.
Pattern alteration is often necessary to achieve
good fi t in a garment, especially swimwear. Use
this collection of alteration guidelines to solve
some of the most common fi tting problems.
A
successful swimsuit depends on a combination of
factors which need careful consideration before you
take on the task. As swimsuits nearly always fi t the
body closely, choose patterns that do the same. The chosen
fabric must have a suitable amount of stretch for the pattern.
Finally, the fi t must be just right. The lengthwise fi t of a
swimsuit is just as important as the fi t around the body,
especially as it is more diffi cult to alter once the fabric is cut.
The following information will help with specifi c problems
and may be applied to all swimwear and activewear patterns.
- Measurements – must be correctly and accurately taken.
See diagram 1.
Width: Compare your personal measurements with those of
the pattern. The joy of a multi-sized pattern is they are perfect
for any fi gure shape ... select the size you need from the size
chart on the pattern, for the three measurements – bust, waist
and hip – and blend the side seam accordingly. See diagram 2.
Crotch width: getting the crotch width correct is vital –
discomfort and possible embarrassment will result if it is cut
either too wide or too narrow. Check the crotch width of the
pattern against a pantie that you know is a comfortable fi t.
Follow diagram 3 to increase or decrease the width.