The Cowrie Kini (named after the Cowrie shell! The shape of the top resembles two cowrie shells I think) is a bikini pattern with two style options for the top and a French cut bottom with medium coverage and two waist rise options. View A, the flat front top, is finished with fold over elastic (FOE) and has a G-hook closure in the back. You can choose either mid- or high rise bottoms for both views. View B, the tie front top, is self faced and this construction is commonly called “seamless”, meaning you don’t see the seams and the lining and main fabric is the same.

You will learn:
✿ How to sew swimwear on your regular sewing machine, no serger necessary.
✿ Two ways of finishing edges on a bikini

FABRIC RECOMMENDATIONS
Choose knit fabric labeled “swim” or “active wear” with 4-way stretch. Typical compositions include Nylon/Spandex and Polyester/Lycra. Aim for at least 15% of elastane (also known as Spandex or Lycra). For US residents, bluemoonfabrics.com has a large selection of swim fabrics.

ELASTIC RECOMMENDATIONS
For View A, you will need 1” FOE to finish all edges. For US residents, the website elasticbytheyard.com has a good color selection of FOE. For View B, you will need good quality 1/4”(6mm) swim elastic or knit elastic, either polyester or cotton. Rubber and clear elastic is not recommended for this pattern.

PATTERN OPTIONS:
✿ A4/Letter print at home
✿ A0/COPYSHOP
✿ Projector file

NOTIONS
View A
✿ 1”(2.5cm) FOE
✿ 3/8(1cm) swim elastic for shoulder strap
✿ 5/8”(1.5cm) G-hook
✿ Matching thread for both FOE and SELF fabric

View B
✿ 1/4”(6mm) swim elastic

SIZING
✿ Bust 28”-58”/ 71-147cm
✿ Hip 31”-61”/ 79-155 cm

LEVEL
✿ Intermediate