Nautilus Bikini

I pattern tested this swimsuit design way back in May and have been eagerly awaiting the release to share it with you guys!   This is the Nautilus Swimsuit from Seamstress Erin Designs.  I’ve been following Erin’s blog since I first started sewing and was psyched to test out this new pattern, especially since I’m at the beach or pool almost year round.  You can check out all the amazing swimsuits from the pattern testers here!

I really love sewing swimwear and learning new techniques to improve my finishes. I’d love to have a coverstitch machine but happily my sewing is finally looking more professional both inside and out. I made this bikini version as my first go at the pattern.  And yes I have another version coming soon too!

Bikini Details:

~I received this pattern free in exchange for my feedback during the tester phase-all opinions are my own~

View C

Twist Bikini Top: size 4 (C/D Cup). the sizing on this pattern was modified after testing so for my second version I made up the size 2 (C/D) based on my measurements resulting in a better fit.

Bottom (modified to higher waistline): size 8.   I originally made the twist bottoms from View B in a size 8.  While pretty I felt they were too low cut for my comfort.  This second pair was modified to a higher waist.

Fabric + Notions:

this Navy Floral on White Nylon Lycra Print  , white swimsuit lining  , white 1/2″ swimwear elastic and 3/4″ S hook all from  The Fabric Fairy 

note: the pattern calls for 1/4″ elastic and 1″ Swim hook- I used what I already had on hand in my stash.

I wish this fabric was still in stock-I’d buy more!  The print is lovely-matte and opaque!  It has a great hand and was so easy to sew.  Both top and bottom are lined with white swimwear lining.

I love the twist center design of the bikini top.  It’s such a cool, unique feature.  And learning how to sew the twist itself was fun.  I went with the halter strap ties as I love the sweetheart shape it gives to the neckline.  Super flattering!  With the inserted foam cups this suit is quite supportive and secure. A very important factor for me.  My kids love to roughhouse in the water and I need a suit that stays put even with kids trying to stand on my shoulders!

I originally made the View B bottoms with the twists, which are so pretty, but the rise was just too low for my comfort.  As a mom to two I have nowhere near a flat belly right now and I prefer a higher rise for comfort.  I modified the version you see by adjusting the waist to match my Watson underwear  which I prefer.

Construction wise I just followed the directions.  Erin went through and fixed everything I had an issue with during the testing phase.   She really paid attention to our feedback so I know this is a great pattern.   Her construction drawings and step by step instructions made this relatively easy to make, even the tricky parts like the bodice twist. The pattern is labeled as intermediate, but if you’ve sewn swimwear or lingerie before it’s quite easy to follow.  I used a lightning stitch for all my edges on the bikini and added a zig zag stitch to the bottoms.

I hope everyone here in the US had an awesome 4th of July!  I took most of these pics this weekend at the beach with the family.  My husband took off two extra days for a lovely long weekend/staycation!  Probably why I look nice and relaxed in these pics! :) We spent some time chill-axin at home with the kids, at our community pool and at the beach.  Plus Monday we went to Lakes Park for a super fun bike ride with the kids- they have awesome 2 person pedal bikes with a basket seat in front for the kids.  The kids also played at the playground and splash pad followed by lunch out at Bahama Breeze.

These were so fun to sew up- plus I love a project where I don’t need a ton of yardage!  The twist added just enough interest to make it different.  Plus I love learning new sewing techniques. My fav is the strap attachment which leaves a nice enclosed edge.  Erin has some great tips over at the Sewalong which has just started!  Plus checkout Erin’s Pinterest board for more versions of this great swimsuit!

Happy Summer!