Sewing for Gymnasts is the third title in Marie Porter's Spandex Simplified series, and is all about designing and creating spectacular and durable leotards for gymnasts of all disciplines - Artistic Gymnastics, Rhythmic Gymnastics, Trampoline, Tumbling, Acrobatic Gymnastics, Aerobic Gymnastics, and more.
 
This book is appropriate for beginner to advanced levels of sewing ability, and is written from both a designer, and former “performance” athlete’s point of view. It will teach everything from the basics, to tricks of the trade. Spandex Simplified : Sewing for Gymnasts will prepare the reader to design and make almost any design of practice or competition leotard imaginable - artistic and rhythmic are both covered.

Given the cost of decent competition leotards, this manual can more than pay for itself with the savings from just one project!

The entire book is written completely in laymans' terms and carefully explained, step by step. Only basic sewing knowledge and talent is required. Learn everything from measuring, to easily creating ornate applique designs, to embellishing the finished suit in one book!

 

Please note: As spandex patterning and sewing techniques are largely the same across many styles of costuming, a large portion of each Sewing with Spandex title is the same/similar to the other Sewing with Spandex titles.   We recommend consulting the Table of Contents for each book you’re considering:

 

 Basic Principles of Leotard Design

- Proper Fit & Safety Considerations
- Figure Flaw Camouflage
- Designing for the Gymnast
- Designing for the Music
- Visibility
- Functionality
- Colour Theory
- Unity
- Selecting Fabrics

 

Pattern Alterations

- Measuring
- Using a Pattern
- Sizing a Pattern
- Adding Length
- Removing Length
- Adjusting Curve of the Back
- Adjusting the Butt Length
- Base Pattern Alteration Final Notes

 

Sewing Techniques

- In the Beginning
- Cutting the Fabric
- Seams
- Elastic Application
- Thread Colour Selection
- Colour Blocking
- Applique
- Lace Overlays
- Lining
- Piping
- Hems
- Zippers
- Closures
- Making Straps
- Hems

 

Leotard Assembly

- Basic Leotard & Singlet Assembly
- Basic Skirted Leotard Assembly
- Tights & Shorts
- Unitards & Biketards
- Applying a Sleeve

 

Style Techniques

- Backs and necklines
- Sleeves
- Skirts

 

Embellishments

- Hand Painting
- Foil Embossing
- Glitter
- Sequins
- Crystals

 

Accessories

- Scrunchies
- Grip Bags

 

Proper Care of Leotards

 

Resources

 

Note Pages