Update: I’ve been informed the streaming class had audio problems; I am re-recording and will post an update June 26th, 2019.
It’s March – already! We had a lovely time sewing briefs last month; this month we continue our lingerie efforts by making a bralette.
A reminder that for all sew-alongs you need:
1. a machine with it’s manual, tuned-up, that can sew a balanced zig-zag
2. the supplies listed in the pattern, as well as a thorough read-through of the pattern you use
From here on out we will be cutting with a rotary cutter and mat. We will need to have our pieces cut out and ready to go, by Friday the 29th at noon PST.
So! Let’s talk about this month’s project!
Bralettes are, generally speaking, bras that are less structured and either decorative or comfort-based. Generally, they do not have wires, foam or padding, or metal closures. Many are made as pull-over garments. They are not intended to shape, lift, or constrict. This lends to some people claiming their bust is “too big” for bralettes. This is patently false; any bust can wear a bralette! If you haven’t tried one or if you have but have not been satisfied, this is a good opportunity to give it a fair shake. Otherwise, please find a friend or loved one you can sew for!
For the purposes of this sewing lesson, I’m going to be using House Morrighan’s Poppy Bralette. This bralette comes in two size ranges. To know which pattern to buy and size to select, you need:
your underbust measurement (directly where your bra band typically lies); and
your bust measurement (the measurement around your nipple line, without wearing a padded bra. Write these numbers down!
The pattern listings below, will show you where to take these measurements and also provide the size tables. The tables are a bit confusing to someone new to bramaking, so please – just take the measurements and write them down, and if you struggle to understand how to proceed, hit me up for help!
6 to 16 size:
underbust: 30″ to 40″
bust: 35″ to 51″
14 to 24 size range:
underbust: 38″ to 51″
bust: 43 1/2″ to 62″
The livestream will be, as ever, on the last Friday of the month (the 29th)
My advice is that you purchase the pattern, print it off, pour a cup of coffee or tea, and read through it.
SUPPLIES:
Rotary cutter and mat
Sewing machine with balanced zig zag; sewing machine manual
Thread and ballpoint, jersey, or stretch needle
4-way stretch fabric; 40% stretch
3 types of elastic (strap, picot, and bottom band)
RinG Slider Set (for your straps)
The exact quantities of each material are detailed in your pattern, which is why it’s important to measure correctly and buy the correct pattern size (or for crying out loud, just buy them both and plan to sew bralettes for your friends)!
Finally: if you are new to bralettes, I advise you make a cotton lycra bralette (Purpleseamstress’ cotton lycras are gorgeous and a great weight) and use the same fabric for the shell and lining. I will be using different colors for my shell and lining, for demonstrative purposes.
Any questions? Comment below!
This is perfect timing for me. I am about to start sewing a bralette. I would love to be included in the livestream.