Nautilus Swimsuit #1503

 

Name:

Nautilus Swimsuit #1503

Paprika Patterns & Tuesday Stitches

Pattern Description:

“The Nautilus Swimsuit has an elegant twist center front, like the shell of its namesake cephalopod.” – Instructions Introduction, page 3

Cephalopod

Available in 3 options, each with a peek-a-boo twist
- (View A) is a one-piece suit
- (View B and C) are bikini suits

There are additional options, such as halter (tie around the neck) and traditional straps (over the shoulder and attach to the back strap).

Fully lined, cup insert and side boning options.

Pattern Sizing:

Women’s sizes –

0 – 30, measurements are in inches and centimeters
Multiple cup sizes from AA to DD+

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Exactly like the front picture.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Yes, from the print instructions all the way through.  The sewing instructions were easy to follow especially for an intermediate/advanced sewer.  I call myself an “adventurous beginner with tendencies towards intermediate”, so a little more thought had to go into each step.  Thankfully, there were pictures with the instructions.  (Tuesday Stitches has a sew-along for additional pictures).

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

Particularly like the wide range of sizes and the attractive overall body coverage. The peek-a-boo top adds playfulness with a flair of sophistication.

The instructions include sizes, fabric & lining along with the elastic requirements.  There is also a fabric stretch visual.  At some points the exact length of elastic to cut is provided.

The pattern options flowchart as well as the sizing and fit visual explanations helped with knowing how the suit was to fit properly.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

No alterations or design changes.

Chose view A (one-piece)

My measurements in inches
Size 0 = 33 high hip, 28 crotch length
Size 2 = 33 high bust
Size 6 = 28 Waist

Made a straight size 0 with an AA cup.

Sewed in cup inserts.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Yes!

I really enjoyed the journey from start to finish even though this swimsuit took a bit longer to make than anticipated.  So glad to have made this because it stretched my abilities and further built my confidence.

This was made using the sewing machine and ball-point needles.  Settings used were the lightning stitch for overall construction, zigzag for the elastic, and finished with a twin needle (personal preference).

Stay calm and become one with the seam ripper.  My education is furthered with every stitch undone.

Recommendations for others is to go slow, make a couple t-shirts to practice working with knits or other stretchy fabrics.

Conclusion:

Go for it!  You can do this!

This was my first attempt sewing swimwear and love the result.  The Nautilus Swimsuit (View A) is stylish and comfortable with full coverage.

Each view enhances the figure and helps those of us with smaller cup sizes appear fuller due to the detail in the center.

Boning will be added on the next make.

I made this swimsuit for my upcoming vacation (YAY!!!) and adding this to my summer capsule wardrobe.  YAY!

*****
5 stars

#nautilusswimsuit @paprikapatterns