Not sure which swim sewing notions you need? This guide covers sliders and rings, S-type closure hooks, swim clasps, elastic, stretch needles, clips, and polyester thread, so you can choose supplies that work together and help your handmade swimwear last.
Not sure whether your swimsuit needs lining, power mesh, or both? This simple guide breaks down what each fabric does, when to use it, and how to choose the right inner layer for a swimsuit that feels comfortable, supportive, and beautifully finished. Learn when swimwear lining is enough, when power mesh adds helpful structure, and how the two can work together in the same project. Whether you’re sewing a bikini, a one-piece, or activewear, these small fabric choices can make your handmade piece feel more polished, secure, and ready to wear.
Stretch needles are a tiny notion that can make a big difference when sewing jersey, swimwear, activewear, rib knits, and other stretchy fabrics. Learn when to use a stretch needle, how it helps prevent skipped stitches, and why the SCHMETZ Knit & Stretch Needles Pack is worth keeping close by for your next stretch project.
What to Sew First: A Beginner’s Guide to Swim Kits (and What to Expect)
If you’ve been thinking about sewing your own swimwear but don’t know where to start — this is for you.
Swim can feel intimidating at first. Stretch fabric, elastic, fit… it’s a lot. But the truth is, with the right pattern and the right materials, your first swim project is completely doable (and honestly, kind of addictive).
Let’s walk through what to sew first, what’s inside our swim kits, and what you can expect along the way.
Start with the Right Pattern
If you’re new to swimwear, choosing a beginner-friendly pattern makes all the difference.
Our Flow and Ease swimsuit patterns are designed specifically with beginners in mind. They focus on:
Clean construction
Straightforward techniques
Minimal overwhelm while still feeling elevated
Whether you’re leaning toward a one-piece or a simple two-piece, these are the best place to start.
What’s in Our Swim Kits?
We created our swim kits to take the guesswork out of sourcing materials — so you can focus on sewing, not hunting everything down.
You can choose between two options:
Full Metre Kit
Perfect if you want:
A one-piece
A matching set in the same print
Includes:
1 metre of swim fabric
1 metre of luxe swim lining
Matching Gütermann thread
Rubber elastic (4m of 8mm + 2m of 19mm)
Exclusive sew-in label
Standard Kit
Perfect if you love a mix-and-match look.
Includes:
Two coordinating swim fabrics (fat halves totalling 1 metre — think print + solid, or print + stripe, etc)
1 metre of swim lining
Matching Gütermann thread
Rubber elastic (4m of 8mm + 2m of 19mm)
Exclusive sew-in label
What to Expect From Your First Swim Project
Your first make might not be perfect — and that’s completely normal.
Here’s what will happen:
You’ll learn how stretch fabric behaves
You’ll get comfortable sewing elastic
You’ll understand fit in a whole new way
And by the end? You’ll have something you made yourself — which is always worth it.
Common Beginner Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Let’s save you some frustration:
1. Using the wrong needleAlways use a stretch or ballpoint needle. This prevents skipped stitches and fabric damage.
2. Skipping test stitchesTest your stitch on a scrap first. A narrow zigzag or stretch stitch usually works best.
3. Pulling the fabric while sewingLet the machine do the work. Stretching fabric as you sew can cause rippling.
4. Elastic tension strugglesElastic doesn’t need to be stretched to the max — consistent, gentle tension is key.
5. Rushing the processTake your time, especially on your first go. Swimwear is all about control and precision.
A Few Extra Tips That Make a Big Difference
A walking foot can help feed fabric evenly (optional, but helpful)
Polyester thread (like the one included in our kits) is a must for stretch and durability
Clip instead of pin when possible — it’s easier on stretch fabric
Press gently with low heat (always test first)
You’re More Ready Than You Think
Starting is the hardest part — but once you do, everything clicks faster than you expect.
With a beginner-friendly pattern and a thoughtfully prepared Swim Kit, you’re not figuring it out alone — you’re set up for success from the start.
And your first swim piece? It won’t be your last.
