Mosaic Maillot

Hey guys! I had a wonderful Memorial Day weekend, and I hope you did too! While I was away, I had boyfriend take a couple shots of me in the suit I finished last week. I'm so excited about it! Here are all the details. I'm going to adopt the "The Facts" section from The Sew Weekly because i like it so much and I think it's a great way to keep track of how much I spend!

Fabric: Spandex/lycra swimsuit fabric from Hancock Fabrics. Pattern: Stretch & Sew 1362, View A ($9) Year: 1992 Notions: Lining, 3/8" and 3/4" wide elastic, bra cups Time to complete: About 5 hours First worn: May 2011 Wear again: Definitely! Total cost: About $30


I've been wanting a one-piece for a long time, and I spent way too many hours lusting over suits from Anthropologie that were way out of my price range. I'd seen a couple handmade suits around the Internet and I figured it couldn't be that hard! I found this pattern on Etsy from seller Patterns New 2 U. I did View A, which has a crossover gathered bodice and tie, choice of high medium or low leg openings (I chose low) and a low back.

The suit couldn't have been easier to put together! I cut out the pieces one night and sewed it up the next. The directions are really easy to understand and they include instructions for making alterations, but I didn't need to do any. I cut a size 36, which exactly matches my measurements, and it fits perfectly.
I traced the pattern pieces first so that I can use the pattern in different sizes later. (It includes bust sizes 30 to 46.) I opted for bra cups instead of just a bandeau bra, and although I was initially worried about View A not having a crotch lining piece, the way the front wraps around makes the whole front piece double layered.

I was also worried about sewing in the elastic, but it was a breeze! I took the advice of Patternreview.com member Tessa and used a stretch stitch for seams, a wide zigzag for stitching on elastic, and a short zigzag for sewing the elastic once it's turned under.

I can't say enough good things about this pattern and I'd recommend it to anyone who wants to try their hand at making a custom swimsuit. My absolute favorite part is the low back. I think it's so flattering! I wore it multiple times over the weekend and I didn't have any problems. Still, I'll probably hand wash it rather than throw it in the washing machine.