Instructions

1. Ok! Let's talk about how to sew FOE. Sew the shoulder seams, side seams and crotch seam on the swimsuit. I really prefer 1" FOE for this technique, but in the video I also used 5/8" fold over elastic and it works well. If you are just starting I think the 1" is easier to use.
2. When you cut out the swimsuit trim 1/4" seam allowance OFF the edges you will finish with the FOE. We will not be folding this under to enclose the elastic so it needs to come off. The leg, arm and neck openings need the seam allowance trimmed off.
3. For my swim pattern {link in materials above} the ratio of elastic to suit opening is 90%. Cut the elastic to that length {pattern goes into much more detail} OR cut the elastic to the length of the pattern you are using.
4. Overlap the ends of the elastic or place the right sides together and then zig-zag to create an elastic circle.
5. I like to half and then quarter the elastic around the suit opening first.
6. After you have the elastic placed around the opening, fold it over with the fabric in the middle. The fabric should come all the way to the elastic fold, but not be folded over {the fabric should not fold, just lay flat inside the elastic.}
7. Place several clips to hold the elastic in place then sew with zig-zag stitch on sewing machine. Catch both layers of elastic and the fabric in your stitch. Sew just a few inches at a time so you can make sure the fabric is in the right place.
8. Check out the video for all the details and watch me actually sew fold over elastic.