How to Make a Bikini Top You Can Wear in 17+ Different Ways

DIY Multiway Top

The rise of the capsule and minimalist wardrobe is real! but… who doesn’t enjoy rocking new outfits when snapping a picture for the gram? 😅

Well, with this DIY multiway bikini top you’ll get the best of both worlds!

After reading this post you’ll know how to make a gorgeous bikini top you can transform in more than 17 different ways and look extra cute in every pool party or shore-side outing!

Bonus? Save the planet, your bank account, and the space in your wardrobe (or luggage)…

If that sounds like your type of win-win situation, let’s get into it! ✨

What do I need to make a bikini top?

You can make this top using just 1 yard (90 cm) of fabric and thread in a matching color! 🧵

Below you’ll find the best supplies to make a multiway bikini top along with some amazing sewing tools to help you get a professional finish and work even faster!

What fabric do you need to make a bikini?

The best swimwear fabrics are Polyester/Spandex and Nylon/Spandex blends. 

And there’s even sustainable fabrics with these blends, like Econyl made 100% from waste products!

Stay away from fabrics made from natural fibers such as cotton since those absorb way more water and your bikini will turn into a heavy wet mess (that will take hours to dry) which may not be a pleasant experience. 

My go-to option? a 4-way stretch Nylon fabric, with at least 10 to 20% Spandex, it’s super stretchy, comfortable, and with a beautiful shiny finish.

Etsy has some swimwear fabrics to die for! Look at these gorgeous colors:

How much fabric do you need for a bikini?

1 yard (90 cm) of 58″ or 60” (150 cm) wide fabric is enough to make this bikini top. 

What kind of thread is used for swimsuits?

Polyester thread is the best option to sew swimwear. The reason? It’s more resistant to chlorine and salt water than cotton thread. 

If you’re looking for top quality, Guttermann is my all-time-fave thread brand. They’ve a HUGE variety of colors, making it easier to find the perfect match for your fabric. 

Best needle to sew stretch fabric?

Ballpoint needle, through and through! AKA stretch needle. 🪡

Have you ever wondered: “why is my sewing machine skipping stitches on stretch fabric?” one of the most common reasons is an issue with the needle.

Your sewing machine needle may have a dull point from use or you could be using a needle for a different type of fabric.

I’ve struggled with this problem before (sooo frustrating I know) and i’m glad to report, It was resolved in 20 seconds just by changing the needle! 

Now to sew bikinis I only use these Schmetz needles in the 75/11 size.

*insert angelic choir sound effect*  🤣

Bias maker tool & tape binding presser foot.

My little secret to sewing strong swimsuit strings (fast!) lies within this little box and I’ll show you how to use it in the tutorial below. 

Bikini top pattern 

This is the master key to make the perfect bikini top for yourself or your besties!!

This bikini top sewing pattern comes in 5 different sizes and it’s ready to be printed at home so you can start making as many multiway tops as you want today!

Multiway bikini top – DIY tutorial summary

If you’re more of a step-by-step reader than a video-watcher, this quick summary is for you. The full video is right below if you want to see each detail in action—but here’s the big picture broken down into simple, easy-to-follow steps.

Step #1 – Print and assemble the pattern

Start by printing the pattern at 100% (actual size) and measure the test square to confirm it was printed correctly. Then cut or fold the edges and match the letters to tape them together.

If you want, you can trace the size you’ll use on pattern paper (I love Swedish Tracing Paper for that!) so you can preserve all sizes in case you want to make more tops in different sizes later.

Step #2 – Cut your fabric

To make this DIY multiway bikini top cut 4 pattern pieces on the stretch fabric, plus a 59″ by 1 5/8″ strip for the under bust strap. 

If you fold your fabric in half, the layout will look something like this: 

You may be wondering… why is there empty space on the folded edge? Well, that’s in case you want to cut some cute bikini bottoms later to match your top! 😍

Oh and there’s no need to print the bikini top pattern twice, you can cut a set of 2 pieces first and then place the pattern again on the fabric to cut the other 2 🙂

Step #3 – Sew the cup pieces

Take the first 2 pieces and sew the sides and the top edge with the right sides of the fabric facing each other, using a stretch stitch (looks like a lightning bolt ⚡️) or a small zigzag stitch.
Trim the top corners to avoid bulk and get a crisp, clean finish when you turn it right side out.

Step #4 – Create the channel

After turning the pieces right side out, stay-stitch the bottom edges. Then measure, fold, and pin 1” up to create the string tunnel. Zigzag stitch along the edge

Step #5 – Sew the straps and assemble

Fold the long strip like bias tape: fold the edges in, then in half, and sew with a zigzag for strength.

Lastly, finish the ends of the strap by folding around 3/8″ and stitching, then insert the strap through both channels of the top using a safety pin.

Watch how to make this multiway bikini top

Here’s a quick video that covers everything you need to know—from cutting the fabric to the very last stitch. 🪡

How to wear non-padded swimsuits

I like this bikini top without padding, because you can transform it and distribute the pleated fabric evenly under the bust more easily. 

But…

If you don’t want the people around you to notice that you’re getting cold — 🤣 I hear you! and there are adhesive-free nip covers you’ll LOVE! No stickiness, just seamless coverage.

Body heat makes them stick to your skin and they’re also waterproof so you can go swimming without problems and they stay in place all day!

How to Tie a Bikini Top 

This DIY bikini top is basically a love letter to sustainable fashion! ♻️✨ With so many ways to style it, you’ll never get bored.

Ready to have some fun with your new adjustable bikini top? 🤩

Here’s a sneak peek at my top 17 favorite ways to wear it!

Check out this guide to reveal all the creative ways to tie your top step by step and get endless style options from just one piece!

DIY Multiway Bikini Top: Final Thoughts

There you have it! Now you’re all set to start making stunning bikini tops.

Grab your sewing pattern here, pick your favorite fabric and let’s make some magic happen! 😍✨

P.S. No sewing machine? No problem! check out the no-sewing method to make this stunning top.