The Flynn top is a reversible bikini top that can be worn bandeau style or with straps. It is easy to make and is beginner-friendly!
Flynn Top Written Directions
Materials
-1/2 yard of swimwear fabric
-1/4" Swimwear elastic (recommended for the best fit)
-Seam ripper
-Overlock machine OR zig-zag stitch on a regular sewing machine
Step 1
Assemble your pattern by cutting out the pieces, taping them together, then cutting out the size you would like to make.
Step 2
Cut your pieces. If you want to make your top reversible, make sure to have two different fabrics to use. In total you’ll cut 1 of the front and 1 of the back in EACH fabric.
Once you’re done, you should have 4 pieces total- 2 fronts, and 2 backs.
If you're adding straps, you will also need to cut two strap pieces. Refer to the measurements given in the pattern to find your recommended strap width and length for your chosen size.
Step 3
Match your fronts and backs with right sides together. Pin and then sew along the marked areas. If you're making straps, you'll fold them with right sides together lengthwise, and pin and sew the raw edges together.
Step 3A
If you're making straps, complete this step before moving on to Step 4. Once your straps are sewn, use a loop turner or safety pin to turn them to the right side. Then, insert them inside of the front piece where you'd like them to go. Typically, straps should go about 3.5-4" in from the edge. You can either sew down your steps during Step 3, or you can go back and seam rip where you want your straps, then sew them down to secure.
Step 4
Once you've sewn everything, flip your FRONT piece out to the right side. With your BACK piece still inside out, insert the front piece inside of it. If you do this correctly, right sides should be together since your front piece is right side out and your back piece is inside out.
Step 5
With the front piece still inside of the back piece, guide the sides so they're matched up. Pin them down to secure before sewing. You should be pinning through 4 layers of fabric.
Step 6
Now sew the sides straight across. You should be sewing across 4 layers of fabric. This will attach the front and back piece at the sides.
Step 7
Now we can take the top all the way to the right side. To do this, seam rip a small hole where the tag would usually be.
Note that the size of the hole in the image below is NOT to scale, ideally make a hole as small as you can while still being able to pull everything through it.
Step 8
Through the hole, pull your top all the way through to bring it to the right side.
Step 8A
If you've made straps for this top, complete this step before moving on to Step 9. With your top all the way to the right side, place your straps where you'd like them to go on the back piece. Again, 3.5-4" is typically good placement for straps. Seam rip a 1/4" hole for each of the straps, and insert them inside. Then, through the big hole we seam ripped, sew down the straps into the back piece while inside out. Afterwards, take your top back to the right side.
Step 9
Now all that's left is finishing off the hole. You can either to a top stitch or you can use an invisible stitch.