When I first began my journey into crocheting bikinis, I found myself struggling to find more information on how to crochet my own crochet swimwear and bikini set.
Since then, I decided to put together all the necessary knowledge and skills I learned throughout the years into this exciting article. I’ve compiled a detailed and thorough guide that covers every aspect of crocheting swim attires.
From understanding the materials and tools required to selecting the ideal bikini style for each unique body type, I’ve also addressed commonly asked questions through an FAQ section – this guide has it all.
Here are the 4 simple things ( + 1 FAQ) you need to know to get going in making your very own crochet bikini.
- Material & tools
- Type and style of bikini
- Getting the correct measurements
- Reading patterns
- Frequently Asked Questions about Crochet Bikinis and Swimsuits
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Crochet Bikini and Swimwear Material & Tools
Selecting the right materials is crucial. The primary focus should be on choosing the appropriate type of yarn. The yarn’s composition and characteristics play a vital role in determining the stretchiness and lightness of the finished product.
Opt for yarn with elastane for elasticity and lightweight properties, especially if it will be used for swimming. A DK weight yarn, also known as lightweight or category 3 yarn, strikes a balance between durability and comfort when wet, ensuring a resilient, stretchy, and comfortable finished product.
Cascade Fixation Yarns
Cascade Fixation Yarns are highly recommended for crochet bikini and swimsuit projects. You can learn more about this yarn here.
This lightweight cotton yarn offers high elasticity and comes in various bright colors and tones. If you are looking for other alternatives, here is a list of the Best Yarns for Crochet Swimsuits which I cover in depth.
Additionally, smaller crochet hooks ranging from 2.00 mm to 3.5 mm hook, such as these clover hooks, are the best-suited crochet hooks when making crochet swimwear.
Smaller stitches equals fewer gaps! And of course don’t forget the other essentials such as elastic rubber bands, stitch markers, bra pads, a pair of sharp scissors, tape measure, and a tapestry needle as well.
As a crocheter, these are the ready-to-go essentials you should already have in your kit! (links attached for easy reference). Check out some of these amazing crochet essentials here!
Type And Style Of Crochet Bikini
Before we start crocheting our own bikini, it’s crucial to have a clear idea of the style we want to create. You can explore various designs and inspirations on platforms like Pinterest or Google, where countless images and ideas await.
Alternatively, you’re welcome to browse through our collection of free crochet bikini pattern and Video tutorials, which have been thoughtfully crafted to accommodate all body types and styles.
Once you’ve settled on a particular pattern, the next step is to ensure that it complements your body shape and type. This involves considering factors such as your bust size, waistline, and hip measurements to find a design that accentuates your best features and provides the most comfortable fit.
Here are some quick and handy tips to guide you in selecting the perfect bikini style for your body:
Large chest: ✅Triangle Bikini Top. ❌ Bandeau
Small chest: ✅Halter crop top. ❌ Triangle Bikini Top
Wide hips: ✅Triangle bikini bottoms . ❌High Waist Bottoms
Narrow hips: ✅ALL (except). ❌ Brazilian style bottoms
Check out some other great free crochet bikini patterns below.
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Getting The Correct Body Measurements
The best way to get the most accurate measurement would be to measure the Height x Width of our bust to achieve the perfect bikini cups (see diagram below).
This is the chart we use for The Knotty Lace designs. You will never go wrong if you follow these measurements against our patterns. Note that sizes may differ from other designers’ patterns and websites. More details on how to measure correctly here.
Start measuring under your bust all the way up to the top flat part of your chest. Then again across the bottom of the cups from left to right.
This will give you your “triangle” cup size when making your bikini top. Mark down these measurements and refer to our step-by-step tutorial on how to crochet the perfect triangle cups here. Or you can also check out How to Crochet a Basic String Bikini Set for absolute beginners.
As for the hip measurements, you would need the circumference of the widest part of your hip aka around the bum area.
Most people would make the common mistake of measuring around the hip bone which will eventually give you a much smaller opening. Learn more about How to crochet the perfect bikini bottom.
Sometimes using our favorite bra and underwear as a comparison to making a bikini could be an option, however, this is not 100% ideal. The best way is to always measure out our cups and hips, followed by making a swatch.
This free Swatch Gauge Calculator will be able to guide you on how to calculate your own gauge if you’re creating your own custom size.
Reading Crochet Patterns
If you are still an apprentice in written patterns and trying to learn symbols and abbreviations, here is a copy of our abbreviations list with the most often-used crochet stitches in patterns.
This list will be able to guide you through each abbreviation and what those shortcodes stand for. In this list, I am only using the US terminology versus the UK terminology which has its variations.
If you would like to learn more about the differences and the basic knowledge of crocheting, here is a great guide that will be able to help you out: How to crochet for absolute beginners.
Using Basic Stitches
When making a crochet bikini or swimsuit, incorporating basic crochet stitches like chain stitches, single crochet stitches, and half double crochet stitches is essential.
These stitches, though short and straightforward, offer remarkable versatility. They enable crocheters to create a diverse array of textures, densities, and designs, thereby facilitating customization and fostering creativity in every piece.
Moreover, using smaller or shorter stitches plays a crucial role in maintaining modesty by minimizing the occurrence of gaps in the fabric.
By utilizing these compact stitches, crocheters can ensure a snugger fit and a more secure garment, preventing unwanted exposure while providing comfort and confidence to the wearer.
This attention to stitch size not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the bikini or swimsuit but also reinforces its functionality, making it suitable for activewear in water environments.
We’re fortunate to have access to a wide selection of crochet tutorials these days on YouTube (including Knotty Lace YouTube tutorials) as well as through picture tutorials.
This access to resources has made learning how to crochet more accessible than ever before, catering to different learning styles and preferences.
Whether you are a visual learner or a step-by-step pattern reader, there’s something for everyone, making the crochet learning journey enjoyable and convenient for all.
Don’t forget to check out our Video Tutorial playlist as well as as our Pattern Store for more ideas!
If you like this video you might also like my other video tutorials on YouTube or here on the blog. And don’t forget to Subscribe to get the latest videos in your inbox.
- Do Crochet bikinis/swimsuit Sag. Can I Swim in it?
- Are crochet bikinis/ Swimsuit see-through?
- Are Crochet swimsuits uncomfortable?
- Do crochet bikinis/ swimsuits shrink?
- Are crochet bikinis/ swimsuits stretchable?
- My crochet bikini/ Swimsuit did not turn out correctly. What did I do wrong?
Check out the full Q&A list here.
There you have it! The 101 and all the things you need to know to start making a crochet bikini.
If you are looking for some great free crochet pattern and tutorials, do go and check them out here.
Candy Twist Bikini Set
Crocheting a bikini is an enjoyable and fun project suitable for all skill levels, whether you’re a beginner crocheter or an experienced one.
With the abundance of resources available, including video tutorials, making your own bikini is easily within reach.
Gear up for the summer by adding a personal touch to your own handmade crochet bikini is a fun and rewarding endeavor.
By selecting the right materials, mastering basic stitches, and following step-by-step instructions, you can craft a stylish and comfortable bikini that’s tailor-made for you.
So, grab your crochet hook, choose your favorite yarn, and create your own gorgeous crochet bikini and swimsuit that’s as unique as you are.
I hope this article was helpful! Let me know if you have any other ideas you would like me to share.
Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram and Facebook @theknottylace, I would love to see your work!
Happy Hooking
Shaz 🌺
