The Ivy Top is a halter-style bikini top with a keyhole cut out. It is beginner-friendly!
Ivy Top Written Directions
If you prefer video instructions, click on the image below to watch the video tutorial.
Materials
-1/2 yard of swimwear fabric
-Swimwear elastic (recommended for the best fit)
-Seam ripper
-Loop turner OR safety pin for turning straps
-Overlock machine OR zig-zag stitch on a regular sewing machine
-Regular sewing machine
You will need both a regular sewing machine as well as an overlock machine for this tutorial. If you don't have an overlock machine, you can use a zig zag stitch on a regular sewing machine. Make sure you at least have a regular sewing machine, because we will be using a straight stitch in this tutorial.
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. Cut two in each pattern piece- 2 of the front and 2 of the back. You will also cut your strap piece according to the measurements provided in the pattern.
Step 3
Match your fronts and backs with right sides together. Pin and then sew along the marked areas. Attach your swimwear elastic to these same areas.
After this step, the only open seams should be the strap openings at the top of the front piece as well as the sides on both pieces.
Step 4
Fold the straps with right sides together lengthwise, and pin and sew the raw edges together. Attach elastic.
Then, use a loop turner to take each strap to the right side.
Step 5
Flip the back piece to the right side. Then, insert it inside of the front piece. Make sure right sides are together
Step 6
With the back piece still inside of the front, align the sides so they're matched up. Pin, and sthen sew across all four layers of fabric. This will secure the front piece to th
Step 7
Using one of the strap openings we left unsewn, take the entire piece to the right side.
Step 8
Next, we need to make the strap channels. To do this, tuck in the raw edges of the halter area of the top. Then flip them inward toward the wrong side. Top stitch them down using a straight stitch, about 1/2"-1" in. Make sure you leave enough room to thread your strap through!
Step 9
Thread your halter strap through each strap channel, then tie.
That completes the Ivy top!
If you have questions about sewing or construction, our Facebook group is a fantastic resource for new and experienced sewers alike. You can join here: https://facebook.com/groups/edgewaterave