A big part of activewear for women is finding a good sports bra, and preferably one that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. So the idea of sewing our own is a pretty appealing idea. Luckily the range of sports bra sewing patterns are expanding quickly these days, and some also offer a lot of support with more intricate construction.
So here is a compilation of sports bra sewing patterns currently available, with comments from me regarding things such as support and construction.
A big list of sewing patterns for sports bra-making:
I first saw this pattern when visiting the stall of a Swedish bra making vendor at a sewing fair. The reviews seem really good and while the constructions look quite easy it looks like it could offer good support and the option to add foam bra cups
German sports-bra pdf-pattern company that comes in a great range of sizes. I have sewn this pattern and really liked it! But it does need some extra stability layers, such as power net.
Sports bra patterns that are easy to make and best suited for small busts. And with the addition of stable power net lining it could offer good support too for small to medium busts.
A huge size range and with lots of design options. From the styles shown on the website this looks like a model that will fit many well, but perhaps it doesn’t offer the super support that the Endurance bra does from the same pattern company.
Large range of sizes, with lots of design option and looks very supportive, according to the description it caters to lift larger cup sizes without the “uniboob” look.
Looks like a medium support bra that according to the description works by compressing the chest to hold your breasts in place and the that the fit and support is fairly dependent on the fabric choices. Lots of cool design options, this is definitely one of the most fashion-like, innerwear as outerwear, bra pattern I’ve come across.
Two strap options with sizes ranging from A to G: The thin strap versions don’t appear to be very supportive, but I think with some power net lining the racerback version could probably give it some stability for at least some breast.
This bra pattern stands out to me because it looks more like a regular bra, but with added stability, which is a style that I personally like, rather than having the bra just pressing the boobs together.
The actual fit of this bra pattern is hard to gauge since it looks kinda off on the model. The support comes mostly from the fabric, not much when it comes to structural support from what I can tell from the tutorial. But hey, it is free!
I created this pdf-guide to help you sew supportive sports bras. It covers what fabrics and notions you need in order to create a fully supportive sports bra and how to build a strong, non-bouncing foundation. I also show step-by-step tutorials for some common assembly steps to make the sewing process easier.
Want to add a simple built-in-bra to your workout top? In this tutorial, I show how it can be done.
This was a pretty extensive list, but I’m sure there are more patterns out there. Please share in the comments section and if you have any tips, tricks and favourite materials for making your own sports bra
Also, join my Sewing Activewear Facebook group if you like. Several folks, there have made their own sports bra and can offer great advice.
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