Learn How to Sew a Sports Bra: a Step-by-Step Guide (2024)

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Ready to explore the latest trend in handmade undergarments? If you’re keen to learn how to sew a sports bra, then this step-by-step guide is for you. From fabrics and tools through to pattern layout and finished measurements – we’ve got it all covered! You can even download your own pattern if needed.

Whether you want extra support or are just looking for something more affordable than store-bought options, making your own sports bra gives you full control over fit and style.

So let’s get started on our journey of sewing up the perfect sports bra – from cutting the fabric right down to putting on those final finishing touches.

Fabrics for Sports Bra

When it comes to fabrics for a sports bra, two of the most popular choices are Supplex and COOLMAX. These high-performance materials offer excellent breathability, comfort, and support while providing superior durability.

Both fabrics can be easily sewn into an athletic garment that will keep you comfortable during your workout without sacrificing style.

Supplex

You may want to consider using Supplex for your next project, as it provides great coverage and is sturdy yet easy to work with. It’s an ideal 4-way stretch knit fabric that can be easily dyed according to the sports bra pattern you choose.

Washing care is also simple, as it’s machine washable and dryable, making maintenance a breeze. Elastic ends are recommended for added comfort when wearing the garment, ensuring that seam strength will not be compromised.

COOLMAX

Experience the comfort and performance of COOLMAX fabric for your next activewear project. Its lightweight 4-way stretch knit is perfect for ensuring a snug fit while also providing excellent coverage.

Perfectly suited to sports bras, zigzag stitching can be used if needed along with pad inserts for additional support.

A sample fitting is recommended as patterns may require adjustments depending on different fabrics used. For an athletic look, try Greenstyle Sewing Pattern’s Ultimate Sports Bra – made from the right fabric, it will provide you with freedom of movement without excessive compression.

How to Cut and Sew the Sports Bra Pattern

Once you have your fabric and elastic ready, it’s time to cut and assemble the sports bra pattern for a comfortable fit.

To begin, lay out the large piece of paper on a flat surface. Place the pattern pieces on top, making sure that their finished measurements match up properly with those indicated in the instructions.

Use scissors or a rotary cutter to carefully trim around each one before transferring them onto your chosen fabric by tracing along its edges with tailor’s chalk or an erasable pen.

Next, attach enough amount of elastic (measured according to size) onto both sides of the front-facing area using a narrow zigzag stitch for extra security. Use pins if needed! Additionally, sew two strips together at the center back to create a bra strap, then insert it into the casing created from fold-over elastic.

Divide the band into four equal parts before attaching it securely around the circumference.

Finally, make sure everything fits well by trying the garment on prior to putting finishing touches like adding pad inserts if desired.

Materials Needed

To make this supportive and comfortable sports bra, you’ll need 2 yards of fabric. You’ll also need fold-over elastic, a ballpoint needle, and thread. Don’t worry if you don’t have the right tools, as there are alternatives available.

For fitting tips, try on your sample before committing to the final product. When it comes to fabric types, consider using supplex or COOLMAX. For sewing tips, opt for a medium zigzag stitch when working with stretchy material.

When it comes to trim options, you can use Babyville Blue Fold-Over Elastic. As for customizing options, you can add pad inserts, but avoid striping fabric as it’s not suitable due to stretching.

Whether it’s your first time making lululemon sports bras or just experimenting with different types of fabrics, it’s recommended to use the Fiskars 45mm Classic Loop Cutter.

No matter which route you take, make sure that all components fit correctly so that no adjustments are needed in the end!

Tools Needed

You’ll need the right tools for a successful project, like a ballpoint needle and Fiskars 45mm Classic Loop Cutter.

When working with stretch fabrics, opt for needles in sizes 80/11 (orange), 90/14 (blue), or 100/16 (purple).

The blade lock feature of this cutter ensures safe storage, while its adjustable design makes it suitable for both left- and right-handed users.

For more challenging projects, consider investing in a flatlock machine to give your seams an extra professional look.

A cover stitch is also essential when sewing waistbands or straps. It has the same properties as overlocking but provides much cleaner results without fabric pulls!

If you’re just starting out on your sports bra journey, there’s no better place to begin than by taking advantage of the wide selection of free sewing patterns available online!

With all these tools at hand, you’ll be sure to have success, even with those tricky first pancakes!

Pattern Layout

Lay out your pattern pieces and get ready to bring them to life with some creative stitching! The Ultimate Sports Bra Pattern includes seven different components, including front cups, a constructed bodice, straps/band size adjustments, and inserting facing.

To ensure the best fit possible when sewing stretch fabrics, it’s important to test fit before cutting the fabric. Start by adjusting elastic around armholes for comfort. Then, cut four equal parts of the band size (two in the back).

Sew seams on both sides of each part along the bottom edge using a zigzag stitch as needed.

After constructing the bodice sections, attach the straps/bands into place with regular stitches or a cover-stitch machine if available. Check for any issues such as puckering or tightness at seam lines. Then, finish off the edges by folding over the elastic onto the wrong side of the fabric before top-stitching close together all around the armholes and neckline area.

This will create a smooth finish without excessive compression, yet still providing adequate support.

Inserting Facing

Adjusting Elastic

Test fitting

Cutting Fabric

Sewing Seams

Front Cups

Constructed Bodice

Strap/Band Size Adjustments

Folding Over Elastic

Top Stitching

Finished Measurements

Your sports bra is almost ready to take you on your next running adventure! Before doing so, it’s important to check the finished measurements of your project. If the fit isn’t exactly what you had in mind, some alterations may be necessary.

To ensure a comfortable and supportive fit that doesn’t cause any discomfort while exercising, here are some fitting advice:

• Select the correct size for yourself or someone else first. There’s nothing worse than having an ill-fitting garment! Also, consider the materials used when selecting a size, as different fabrics have different stretches and fits.
• Sports bras with contoured cups provide extra support for high-impact activities like running or playing basketball. However, they can often require more fabric, which will affect sizing accordingly.
• Construction tips, such as using stabilizers while cutting out pattern pieces, may help reduce unwanted stretching during construction. However, this isn’t always necessary depending on how stretchy your chosen fabric is.

  Supplex or COOLMAX are generally considered the best options among sewers due to their good stretch and recovery rates, but other alternatives exist too if desired.

With all these factors taken into account carefully prior to starting sewing, achieving perfect results every time is definitely achievable without breaking a sweat – pun intended!

Pattern Download

Download the Ultimate Sports Bra Pattern to get started on your supportive and comfortable sports bra! With free downloads available, you’ll have access to sewing tips and pattern drafts that will ensure your project is a success.

Choose fabrics based on the support level desired – Supplex or COOLMAX are ideal for providing lots of bounce-reducing compression without compromising comfort. Regular elastic can be used as well if needed, but make sure it’s wide enough so that when sewn onto the waistband it won’t be too tight around your body shape.

Before cutting out any fabric pieces, check what bra size you need by measuring yourself according to instructions in the pattern guide included in each download file.

From creating straps with ease to perfecting tricky curves such as those found near armholes or necklines – this pattern has got everything covered so don’t forget– take advantage of these helpful resources while making something special just for yourself!

Sewing the Back

Start your sports bra project by stitching the back pieces, taking care to pay extra attention to curved parts. When attaching elastic, make sure you stretch it as you sew for a snug fit without being too tight.

Depending on the fabric type and thickness, consider using a walking foot or zigzag stitch for best results when sewing stretch fabrics.

Don’t forget to try out sample fittings before cutting into your new pattern!

Separate the front and sides from each other so that they can be sewn separately with ease.

In this never-ending search for comfort while exercising, there are many machine options available now but none more satisfying than making something special just for yourself!

Sewing the Front and Sides

Next, carefully align the facing with your scooped neck and armhole edges before sewing the front and sides together.

With so many fabric options available for creating a sports bra, you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for you!

If you’re a fan of low-impact sports bras or need extra support during vigorous activities, testing fit should be done at this stage for best results.

Use a zigzag stitch if needed when stitching stretch fabrics like athletic mesh in green or light pink colors.

Once complete, attach elastic along shoulder seams while stretching it slightly as you sew.

Finally, adjust the elastic bands around the midriff section by dividing it into four equal parts and attaching each part securely.

Sewing the Elastic and Band

Now that the front and sides are sewn, it’s time to sew on the elastic and band. Depending on your desired support level, there are multiple types of elastic you can choose from, such as Babyville Blue Fold-Over Elastic or 5/8 inches wide Black Fold Elastic by Elastic By The Yard.

To ensure a correct size is achieved, measure around your body while taking into account how much stretch you need for comfortable movement in all directions. When sewing stretch fabrics like athletic mesh in green or light pink colors, adjust the machine or serger/overlocker settings accordingly.

Keeping tension control low will help reduce puckering and fabric distortion when stretching techniques are used during construction.

For those who aren’t fans of gyms but still want a supportive sports bra without too much compression, this pattern provides plenty of options! The Greenstyle Sports Bra Pattern marks out the correct number of bands for each cup size.

With just two yards worth of material needed, plus fold over elastic, a ball point needle, and thread, you can easily create the ultimate sports bra perfectly tailored just for you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)