X-factor sport top

When I first saw pictures of the X-factor tankini/ bikini I fell in love with the design of the back. However, after purchasing the pattern it took me a long time to actually use it, because it did look a little intimidating to me. Looking for a smallish project I finally bit the bullet and made the bikini top, that I will wear as a sports top.

The sizing chart put me in a size S. Looking at other people's makes I noticed the top started relatively high under the arms. With other tops (of different pattern makers) I noticed I usually need some slightly larger armholes, so I decided to a 2cm to the straps (1cm in front and 1cm to the back). This also lowered the neckline slightly. No other alterations were made to the pattern at this time.

Putting the top together was not as intimidating as I thought it would be. The tutorial that comes with the pattern also includes a section on how to do the binding, which was very helpful.

The first fitting showed that the top was a little too long, so I took out 1cm (the one I added to the straps) at the bottom. I also noticed the bottom band and the elastic were too wide. Since I needed to remove the bottom band anyway, I shortened both the bottom band and the elastic by about 4cm. This gives a much better fit. For a more supportive feel I may need to size down or use a less stretchy fabric (the pattern calls for >50% both ways and I used an at least 75% stretch fabric). Next time, I'll probably make some more changes to the fit, but I'd like to get some wear out of this one before I do.

All in all, I am very happy with how this top turned out. Maybe an X-factor slim tank next time?

Patroon/ Pattern: X-factor Tankini and Bikini Top - 5 out of 4 Patterns

Maat/ Size: S

Stof/ Fabric: lycra/ spandex - Rosa's glitterstof

                      lining - Rosa's glitterstof