I'm going to sew a bikini (i know, it sounds kind of weird) but what fabric should I use?

Question

I found a neat pattern on the internet and it didn't say what type of fabric to use... Is it alright to use non-swimsuit fabric and waterproof it with something like "Scotch-Guard"? If you know, please tell me! Thanks! ;)

Answer 1

Why would you want to use waterproofing on a swimming suit?  If you intend to have any exposure to chlorinated water, you need to use fabric that is not damaged by chlorine and UV, which means swimming suit fabric, not general purpose lycra fabrics.  Likewise, elastics should be chlorine and UV stabilized.

If you're looking for non-lycra fabrics, you can try something like supplex nylon, which is one of the common choices for board shorts, etc.

Suggested reading: Kwik Sew's Swim and Action Wear -- possibly available at your library. Although bikinis are not specifically discussed in depth, it will give you good information on working with lycra fabrics and how to choose the proper notions.

http://www.amazon.com/Kwik-Sews-Swim-Act...

(easiest and probably cheapest place to get a new copy is through http://www.kwiksew.com )

Answer 2

I don't see why it has to be swimsuit material. You can wear your normal clothes in water and everything works out so if it was that material shaped like a bikini whats the difference?

Answer 3

I  think that's a great idea. I'm gonna have to try that now! If ya have any bathing suits check the tags to see what materials are used. Mine are mostly nylon (80%-100%). Good luck with your bikini!

Answer 4

You'd better find a special swimsuit fabric. Otherwise it may not withstand chlorine and behave funny when wet. Check:

www.fabric.com