This blog contains affiliate links. Please see the DISCLOSURE POST for more information.

Knit Swimsuit (archived post)

This post (from my former blog "A Yarn About Knitting") was first published on Oct. 21, 2009.

I just completed my first real article of clothing [edited: since beginning knitting in 2005] and my first piece of clothing for a doll.  This pink and black beach set was knit with love out of acrylic super soft yarn.  Please feel free to replicate and improve it.  I'm not addicted to doll knitting [editted: no kidding- I just found over twenty doll outfits that I have knit over the years].  Perhaps when I get all the items on my Christmas to-do list done, I can try some sweaters, bath robes, pants sets, and even footie pajamas [edited: all for dolls].  I'm pretty excited.

The Suit:
I started the swimsuit at the bottom, knitting it in two pieces on size 2 needles.  Once past the legs, I joined the two pieces and knit in the round (92 stitches) until the piece was about five inches long (about an inch under the doll's arms).  I cast off the back and began shaping the front with decreases on each side.  Then, I created the straps, which crisscrossed and buttoned in the back.  To finish, I sewed the bottom flaps together.  I'm sure that if I was more skilled in this area, I could knit the whole thing in one piece by using a temporary cast on.

The Cover
This piece was knit in a simple lace pattern (yo, k2tog).  It's tied on with two i-cord straps, which I attached with a needle.

The Sunglasses:
I bought the glasses at Michael's craft store.  I added a piece of elastic to hold them onto the doll's head better.

The Sandals:
Trace the doll's foot onto black craft foam.  Cut out four pieces.  Knit an i-cord for the strap.  Glue the straps to two of the soles and glue another foam shape to each sole, sandwiching the i-cord in between the foam.  Punch holes into the soles and add elastic to help the sandals stay on better.  Finish with cheery flower buttons.

Jan. 2016 update: Here is a free "bodysuit" pattern which you could use to create your own swimsuit.







Comments

HomeschoolHistory.com - Start Your Free Trial

Popular posts from this blog

Foster-to-Adopt Party Theme Ideas

100 Indoor Heavy Work Activities to Burn Energy

Homeschooling with Laura Ingall's Wilder and the Little House series