Pipa Bikini Bottom
Sew your own Brazilian-cut bikini bottom step by step. Includes a printable A4 pattern in sizes 34 through 56 and a video tutorial from our online sewing academy.
Project preview
This video is for members
Join Lulu Ferris to watch the complete class and sew along at your own pace.
What you’ll make
Sew a Brazilian-cut bikini bottom with a neat, close-fitting finish. Make it reversible with a different Lycra fabric on each side, or use one outer fabric with a separate lining.
The elasticized waist and leg openings are enclosed between the layers. Once turned, the bikini bottom has a tidy finish on both sides without exposed elastic.
What you’ll learn in this class
- Select and test a needle suited to Lycra.
- Organize the two layers as you join the pieces.
- Quarter-mark the garment and elastic.
- Distribute elastic evenly with controlled tension.
- Use a stretch stitch, zigzag or serger.
- Enclose the side seams for a reversible finish.
- Close the final opening with an invisible hand stitch.
Fabric and elastic
Use Lycra suitable for swimwear. Choose a second Lycra color or print for a reversible version, or pair the outer fabric with a suitable lining when only one side will face outward.
The pattern uses 6 mm rubber or clear elastic at the waist and leg openings. The PDF provides the required elastic lengths for every size.
The class discusses Stretch, Super Stretch and Microtex needles. Test your needle and stretch stitch on a scrap of the chosen fabric before sewing the bikini bottom.
Make it your own
Use contrasting fabrics for two wearable looks, make both sides alike or sew a lined, non-reversible version.
Complete the set with the Ibiza bikini top or Violet bikini top, using colors or prints that coordinate with either side.
Pattern sizing
The pattern covers sizes 34/36 through 54/56. Its body chart spans waist measurements of 64–110 cm and hip measurements of 90–136 cm.
The video class includes a printable multisize A4 pattern with a body-measurement chart and size-specific elastic lengths.
Pattern & materials
Patterns are included with membership
Active members can download every available PDF and materials list.
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