Lingerie Sewing: Bralette Sewing Tips

Applying Picot or Decorative Elastic

1. Prepare the machine by measuring the distance between the needle and the edge of the machine, Mark with tape. The elastic should stretch about 15-19%. This means that for every 4” you stitch you want the elastic to be about 3 1/4”, stretched to 4”. It does not have to be exact.
2. Place the plush/back side of the picot elastic up, on right side of fabric. Align the straight edge of the elastic to the edge of the fabric. Pull the elastic by the 3 1/4” mark and stretch it to the edge (4”). Sew with medium zigzag trying to stay as close as possible to the picot side edge.
3. Trim excess fabric along the elastic edge.
4. With the garment right side up, turn the elastic to the back. Zigzag stitch trying to stay as close as possible to the flat edge of the elastic (use a visual reference). Garment right side up. Stretch the elastic slightly, but don’t stretch the fabric.
5. Here’s what the front and back of the elastic should look like.

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Applying Picot or Decorative Elastic in the Round (i.e. waist or leg openings)

1. Trim seams to make them even if necessary.
2. Start approx. 1” from the seam.
3. When the elastic overlaps release the tension of the elastic, and without stretching, overlap approx. 1/2”-3/4”.
4. Turn the garment to a 90 degree angle and bartack along the join seam of the elastic.
5. Trim the elastic and the loose threads.
6. Turn the elastic to the back, and sew with the garment right side up. Step 4 in top instructions.

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Creating the Straps

1. Cut 2 pieces of satin elastic for the straps that measure about 22” long each.
2. Slide one of the ends of the elastic about 1 ½” around the center post of the slider.
3. Fold down elastic and bartack (small tight zigzag) approx. 1/2” -5/8” from slider
4. Trim the excess strap and loose threads.
5. Pull the loose end of the strap through the ring, and then through the slider, and pull.
6. Measure 2 ½” between the ring and slider for adjustability.
7. Measure the final length of the strap (measure according to your pattern’s instructions), and now the strap is ready to use.

Note: As the final step to finish your bralette, attach the strap to the front with a bartack and to the back with a long single needle stitch to hold in place. Double check on the body, if possible, before cutting the final strap, and if measurement is correct bartack to the back on top of the single needle stitch.

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Stitch Love Studio’s “Daisy” bralette pattern

The Daisy pattern is a cute, comfy, easy to make and easy to wear lingerie piece. The long line bralette features adjustable straps and lined seamed cups. Daisy was carefully designed to be versatile and provide you with subtle support while lounging, playing, sleeping, traveling or just going out. Instructions include variations for a lengthened version for a bustier style, or can be converted to a one-piece back for more comfort. If using a lower stretch fabric, follow the variation with hook and eye. Use a cotton or bamboo spandex blend knit fabric for a cute look, lace with a stretch mesh for a romantic style, or stretch velvet to wear under a low cut tee or jacket. Create endless combinations… Have fun! The “Daisy” is available in a downloadable, easy to use, PDF chock full of easy to follow instructions, accompanied by colorful clear photos for every step, to guide you along in your bralette journey. Available in sizes ranging from XS-3XL.

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