Thread: pratice top patterns?

I would like to find a sports braish type pattern to make some fun dance tops with. I have some small amounts of 4 way streach fabric i want to use up.

I don't really like the wrap around top because i'm big busted and they never seem to stay in place or closed. The sports bras I have gotten seem to either suffocate me and create mono-boob or they are wayyyyy too low cut in the front. I like to keep things at a PG level.

I would like to find some basic pattern that I can have fun with....any suggestions? Has anyone made these with success? Tips?

Thank you ..g.:

I haven't made any, but the Jalie patterns for exercise wear come highly regarded. Check out their website:

Sewing Patterns by Jalie - One Pattern Fits All

Also, Kwiksew has many patterns for knitwear you might find useful. I did make myself a couple tie-front tops for wearing over sports bras.

kwiksew.com - Home

i bought a pattern that goes from little children all the way up to fit big girls like me; i am a size 22 and big busted

its for ice skaters and ballet dancers; but they look like belly dance tie tops. i have cut out a pattern but am yet to sew it together. bit tricky with a baby ... i have to remember to pull out my sewing while she is asleep or she wants in on the action.

Mine is a Jalie pattern too

I'll third the Jalie patterns- I also have their raglan sleeve unitard pattern which I've modified 100 different ways for some cool effects- good stuff!

Re: wrap around tops: I have had luck with KwikSew 2632. I altered the pattern a bit, kind of doing a full-bust-alteration (FBA in sewing terminology) by adding to the front pattern piece. I made the front pattern piece longer in front by about an inch. I was able ease in this length at the side seams, so I didn't have to sew a dart. I also added raised the neckline edge by about 3/4 of an inch. I really like sewing a lot of my own clothing because I can alter things so that they will fit better. I have sewn versions where I have a lengthened the ties so that I can it in the back if I want.