The Tegan Top is an essential basic, and its sporty style is ideal for swimming, beach volleyball, or anything active!
Tegan 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 of the pattern piece, and cut your 2 strap pieces according to the measurements provided in the pattern.
Step 3
Match your pieces 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 and each outer edge.
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
Insert each strap inside of each strap opening, while the piece is still inside out. Pin and then sew to secure the straps in place.
Step 6
Use one of the open outer edges to take the entire piece to the right side.
Step 7
Tuck in the raw edges of both the outer edges, then flip them inward toward the right side about 1/2" to 1". Use a straight stitch on a regular sewing machine to top stitch each edge down, which will create the strap channels.
Step 8
Thread your shoulder straps through each of the strap channels.
That completes the Tegan 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