A Modest Little Lady Swimsuit with Circle Skirt

What a cutie, right? This is my friend's daughter, Caitlin. She is now the proud owner of my first-ever handmade swimsuit! Her mom said she'd been having some trouble finding a more modest suit, one with a longer skirt with shorts that were a little longer. 

So she asked if I'd be interested in sewing one for Caitlin.

I just happened to have the perfect fabric waiting in the wings.

Yes! I was so excited to start.

I thought about it and researched the blogosphere a bit for patterns and ideas. I emailed with Amy, the owner of Peek-A-Boo Pattern Shop a bit and finally settled on the new Coco Cay Color Block tankini pattern for the shorts. The boy shorts were definitely short so I lengthened the pattern about 5".  I also knew Caitlin's mom wanted a twirly-type skirt, so I cut a circle skirt (having MADE's pattern in mind). Amy suggested I consult this pattern for attaching the two and that's exactly what I did.

 Now Caitlin can do many fun things in her skirt/shorts while maintaining a bit more modesty.

Oh yes, she is a karate pro too!

For the rashguard, I again went to Peek-A-Boo Pattern Shop.

I loved both patterns I bought from the shop and am looking forward to sewing another suit really soon for my own little girl.

Caitlin was so cute modeling her new suit for me! (Even in the rain - see the ground?) I am so happy it fits and that her mom liked it. :)

A few sewing notes:

- I found this recent advice from Rae very helpful with securing the seams.

- The shorts are fully lined. I wish I knew how to line, say, just the underwear or crotch area, but don't. 

- I bought my lining fabric at Joann's and used a coupon to score a good deal.

- The suit fabric source is unknown, sorry.

- Any questions? Just let me know.

I'll be linking up with some of these fun parties!