Coralie swimsuit by Tilly & the Buttons Sewing Beautiful Swimwear

The Coralie swimsuit is the first pattern I’ve sewn by Tilly and the Buttons.  The pattern company gifted me this pattern with no obligation to provide feedback or review.  When they offered the pattern, I was knee-deep into some other endeavors and never got around to sewing it.  In the past, I’ve been eager to make swimwear as a challenge.  Many people shy away from this fabric and swimwear in general.  If that’s you, keep reading for all the reasons you can and should sew the Coralie swimsuit.

Features of the Coralie Swimsuit

• Body Inclusive: US pattern size 2 to 30
• Full swimsuit
  • High back or low back
  • Ruffles or no ruffles
• Bikini
  • Ruffles or no ruffles
• Can be Self-lined
• Less than six pieces to trace, cut, and sew
• Full-color instructions

My choices for Sewing this swimsuit

When it comes to the Coralie swimsuit, the choices are endless. The first decision is whether to craft a bikini or a full swimsuit.  Then, the next choice is ruffles or no ruffles.  In this one pattern, you can create six unique swimsuits! The thrill of cutting and sewing six different designs, each with its own charm, is an exhilarating prospect.  

For my Coralie swimsuit, I opted for the low-back design with no ruffles.  And let me tell you, I have no regrets about this choice. It’s a decision I stand by and one that I believe many of you will also find satisfying.  

Tips for sewing the Coralie Swimsuit

Unlike commercial patterns, independent pattern companies often do not provide printed paper patterns, or they are purchased in PDF form and constructed from standard printer paper.  Fortunately, I had the printed version complete with a beautiful pattern envelope and instructions.  The paper is much thicker than commercial patterns, and I did not want to cut it.  

Trace the Pattern

My first tip for the Coralie swimsuit is to trace the pattern, or at least trace your pattern size.  There are no number of letters.  The pieces are instead labeled by pattern piece–” bikini bottom,” “bikini back,” etc.  Multiple pieces may be on a larger piece, so take great care when you trace.  

Test your fabric, then…

Before you start sewing, it’s crucial to test your fabric and stitches.  Ensure that your fabric is suitable for swimwear and has the right amount of stretch. Test it, then test it again. This thorough testing process will give you the confidence that your fabric is of high quality and suitable for your project.

Read ALL the instructions

The Coralie swimsuit sewing pattern has the best instructions I’ve ever read, and I’ve been sewing for over twenty years.  I’ve made several swimsuits like McCalls 8329 and Vogue 9192. These instructions are clear.  The illustrations are helpful if you get lost. These sewing pattern instructions even tell you what stitch length and width to use—brilliant!

Conclusion about Coralie swimsuit

I will definitely make another Tilly and the Buttons swimsuit. It was super easy, and it’s the first swimsuit I’ve made with cups. The girls love the support, and it was easy to add.  

Have you made the Coralie swimsuit? Do you have another swimsuit pattern you like?