Learn About Bra Styles
Get to Know Bra Anatomy
This article explains basic bra anatomy and illustrates two styles of bras you’ll encounter most often in your bra making.
The Foam Cup
An introduction to different styles of foam bras. Learn how some foam cups are designed to add “size” or push up, while others are simply a form of support fabric.
The Frameless Bra
Learn about the frameless (or partial band) bra.
How to Fit an Underwire
An explanation of different styles of underwires along with some fitting tips.
Tutorials
Is That Bra a Demi, Balconette, or Full Cup?
October 22, 2015An explanation of bra styles and how they differ among necklines, strap positions and cup shapes. Read more
Video: Dyes for Lingerie Fabrics
September 30, 2015I love hand dyeing fabrics for lingerie projects. In this video, I introduce you to a few different types of dyes and how they work… Read more
Reader Question: Sewing Machines for Lingerie
August 7, 2015Hi Amy, I’m interested in sewing lingerie. Do you recommend a sewing machine or are their special features I should look for? Over the past… Read more
The Magic of Edgestitching
April 9, 2015Do you press seams when making a bra? I’ve been asked this question a few times. You may be surprised to know that iron pressing… Read more
Guest Post: Make Your Own Bra Pressing Curve
February 17, 2015I love making up sewing tools. There are times a tweezer works better than a bone folder, and a rubber hammer works better than an… Read more
How to Sew Lingerie Elastic
January 21, 2015We’re almost ready to cut! Before we get to cutting or sewing, I thought it would be useful to review the basics in sewing lingerie… Read more
Bra Making: Add Boning to a Strapless Bra
September 25, 2014Oh hey, remember my strapless bra project? This week I had a little “me sewing time” after over a month away, and finally worked on… Read more
Bra Making: What is Sister Sizing?
September 18, 2014Have you heard the term “sister sizing”? It’s a great term for explaining how bra sizes shift in band and cups. The basic idea is… Read more
Bra Tips: Fitting An Underwire
May 13, 2014It’s reader question day! Recently, a reader asked by email: How do you know what size to start with? The wires in my bras dig… Read more
Making a Foam Cup Bra: Part 3
April 14, 2014Today I’m going to finish my bra! At this point I have two sets of cups–the foam cups and the outer coverings–and have also assembled… Read more
Making a Foam Cup Bra: Part 2
April 11, 2014Today I’ll be cutting out my pieces and get started sewing. First, let’s make some some changes to your cup pattern to work with foam.… Read more
Making a Foam Cup Bra: Part 1
April 10, 2014This summer I have planned a few foam-lined bras for my wardrobe. One of these is going to be strapless style I can wear comfortably… Read more
Lingerie Friday: Cutting & Tipping Underwires
October 4, 2013Learn about underwire shapes and cutting to your own size. Read more
White to Ivory: Dyeing with Tea
September 12, 2013Experiments in dyeing nylon with tea! Read more
Lingerie Friday: The Frameless Bra
August 2, 2013My take on a frameless (aka partial band) bra in sheer leopard mesh, with highlights on the distinctions between frameless and full-frame styles. Read more
Lingerie Friday: Dyeing the Notions
April 26, 2013Dyeing lingerie notions (bra hooks, elastic, and more) with acid dye. Read more
Lingerie Friday: Thread Tales
March 22, 2013Special threads for sewing lingerie. Read more
Adjusting Your Bra Band (With Math!)
March 6, 2013How to alter a bra band pattern based on the stretch of your fabric. Read more
How to Sew Bra Straps
January 25, 2013Make your own bra straps–all elastic or spaghetti-style, front or back closure. Read more