Sew Your Own Athletic Wear: Week 1 – Bras & Tanks

If you’ve ever worn a handmade sports bra or tank to the gym, on a run, or even just lounging around the house, you already know the truth: once you sew athletic wear, there’s no going back.

Welcome to Week 1 of our Sew Your Own Athletic Wear series, where we’re starting right at the foundation—sports bras and tanks. These are the pieces that sit closest to your body, get the most wear, and (bonus!) are some of the most satisfying athletic garments to sew.

Whether you’re brand new to sewing knits or ready to tackle strappy backs and built-in bras, this week is all about building confidence and skills, one stitch at a time.

Why Start with Bras & Tanks?

Sports bras and tanks are:

• Smaller projects (hello, quicker wins!)
• Great for learning stretch fabrics
• Easy to customize for your body and activity level
• The base layer for almost every athletic outfit

Plus, many patterns grow with you—from simple pull-on styles to advanced designs with pockets, cups, and multiple strap options. Make sure you read all the way through - you just might find some discount codes :)

Beginner-Friendly Athletic Bra & Tank Patterns

These patterns are perfect if you’re new to athletic fabrics or just want something straightforward and wearable. Make sure you read all the way to the bottom for some savings.

🧵 Simple Sports Bras

Fabric + Flow – Flow Bra

• Modern, supportive bra pattern designed for everyday comfort
• Clean lines and flattering shaping
• Ideal for lounging, layering and light movement
• Fully lined and suitable for stretch fabrics like swim, athletic, or soft knits
• Beginner-friendly, customizable, and perfect as a wardrobe staple
  
• You can get the pattern for free with the purchase of an Athletic Kit with code FLOW until February 7.

Greenstyle Creations – Bobby Brami PDF Pattern – Greenstyle

• Brami (bra/cami) design
• 3 lengths, 3 necklines, and 3 back options
• Built-in shelf bra with optional cup inserts
  
• Works with athletic or soft fabrics for an everyday wardrobe staple
  
• Save 15% off with code GSxFF15 until end of February.

🧵 Basic Athletic Tanks

Jalie – Workout Tank

• Front yoke with keyhole racerback, slightly longer back hem, and a modern, easy-to-sew hem
• Armholes on both views are finished with bands
• Has dress option

Fehr Trade – Versatili Top

• No side seams to eliminate underarm irritation
• Boxy, loose-fitting workout top for comfort and ease
• Two versions included: sleeveless tank or tee
• Save 20% with code FLOWWITHIT until end of February

Styla – Estes Set

• No side seams to eliminate underarm irritation
• Boxy, loose-fitting workout top for comfort and ease
• Two versions included: sleeveless tank or tee
• Save 20% with code ATHLETIC20 until end of February

Intermediate/Advanced Patterns: Leveling Up Support & Style

Ready to add a few new skills? These patterns introduce shaping, multiple views, and optional features without being overwhelming.

🧵 Intermediate Sports Bras

Greenstyle Creations – Endurance Bra

• High-impact support
• Optional pockets and strap variations
• A favorite for runners and athletes
• Save 15% off with code GSxFF15 until end of February.

Made For Mermaids – Emmy Sports Bra

• Scoop neckline and open crisscross back
• 2 lengths
  
• Designed for knit fabrics; customizable support with optional power mesh inner lining and removable cups

Sinclair Patterns – Onyx Bralette

• Very fitted, medium-impact pull-on athletic bralette with a regular, low, or deep neckline and non-adjustable straps
• Fully lined and reversible for comfort, support, and versatile wear

🧵 Intermediate Tanks with Built-In Features

Fehr Trade – XYT Workout Top

•  A workout tank with an integral, supportive sports bra and three different back options
  
• Optional built-in bra for added support
  
• Intermediate level pattern using stretch jersey with good recovery (negative ease); bra requires power mesh lining
• Save 20% with code FLOWWITHIT until end of February

Michelle Design Co – Ella Top

• Not officially a workout tank — but we love her look as a cute, low-impact top that
  features a keyhole wrap detail at the front
• Deep U-neck in the back for an elegant finish
  
• Save 15% with code SEWMDC until end of February.

Fabric Tips for Sewing Bras & Tanks

Choosing the right fabric makes all the difference:

• Medium to high stretch knits (nylon/spandex blends are ideal)

• Look for 4-way stretch with good recovery

• Power mesh or athletic lining for added support

• Don’t skip quality elastic—it’s worth it!

Coming Up Next: Week 2 – Shorts & Leggings

Once you’ve got bras and tanks covered, it’s time to move on to shorts and leggings—where pockets, waistbands, and performance fabrics really get to shine.

👉 Stay tuned for Week 2: Sewing Athletic Shorts & Leggings (From Basic to Pocket-Packed!)