A 1 piece swimsuit will also work if you do not have a leotard.
Make sure to trace right along the edges of the leotard.
Make sure that the line goes all the way around the edges of the leotard body and sleeves. Cut out this piece and mark it as the “front” piece.
Keep in mind that the back of the leotard may have a lower back than the front. Make sure to write “back” on the back piece to indicate what it is.
For example, if the straps are 11 by 1. 5 in (27. 9 by 3. 8 cm), then draw a strap that measures 11. 5 by 2 in (29. 2 by 5. 1 cm). Cut out this piece and mark it to indicate that it is the pattern for your straps.
You may only end up needing around 1 yd (0. 91 m) to make your leotard, but get 2 yd (1. 8 m) just in case!
Make sure that there are no lumps or bumps in the fabric before you place the pattern pieces on it.
Make sure to insert the pins so that they are perpendicular to the edges of the fabric. This will make it easier to remove them when you sew the leotard.
Be careful not to create any jagged or crooked edges! This will interfere with sewing.
Do not pin along the leg openings, armholes, or neckline. These must remain open!
Remove the pins as you sew. Do not sew over them or you may damage your sewing machine!
Make sure to remove the pins as you sew. Keep in mind that you can skip the straps or sleeves if your leotard has a tank top style.
Repeat this for each of the straps. Make sure that you do not sew the arm or neck opening closed as you do this! Cut any loose threads where you have attached the straps.
Make sure to remove the pins as you sew. Repeat for the other sleeve to complete your leotard. Trim the excess threads after you finish sewing, and then turn the leotard right side out.
