Easy Retro Tankini

Hello! In this tutorial I'll teach you how to make a super easy retro tankini top. Pair it with a plain bikini bottoms, and hit the town!

**Remember to use a zigzag stitch in order to ensure stretchiness**

Step 1:

Measure a rectangle of fabric with the width being the circumference of you ribs, and the length being measured from your armpit to mid-thigh, running the measure down your side.

Step 2:

You will cut the rectangle into four parts:

• First cut it in half
• Then cut about 6 inches off the top of both (this should be close the length from your armpit to under your bust)
  

These will become the top.

Step 3:

Next cut out four straps:

• Two should be about 30 inches long, and 5 inches wide. Fold in half (pattern facing in), sew the sides, leaving the bottom edge open, then flip inside out
• One should be 17 inches long, and 6 inches wide Fold in half (pattern facing in), sew the sides, then flip inside out

The first two will be used for the halter, the third for the top in step 8.

Step 4:

**OPTIONALLY, first you can sew padded cups onto the back of one of the smaller rectangles**

Then sew the two straps between the two rectangles as shown to create the halter.

Step 5:

Sew the top to one of the big rectangles

Step 6:

Sew the two rectangles up the side with elastic, creating the body.

Sew a ring of elastic around the tube created by the two large rectangles.

Step 7:

Cut a small slit in the middle of the seam connecting the top to the bottom. Pull the short strap through and over the top, tie in the front, and you're done!