Introduction
Say hello to the Top-Bra “Sport” — clean, classic, and endlessly versatile. This is the kind of pattern people all over the world keep coming back to. I’ve seen it turned into sporty gym bras, comfy lounge tops, and even sleek swimwear pieces. It’s beginner-friendly, but it definitely doesn’t look “beginner-made.”
Materials & Tools You’ll Need
With the right fabric, Sport can be supportive enough for activewear and soft enough for everyday lounging. And if you pair it with matching bottoms, you can create a full swimwear or lingerie set. Grab your copy of the Top-Bra “Sport” sewing pattern and I’ll walk you through the whole process.
Sport is simple, so your fabric can really shine. For activewear and swimwear, use spandex, Lycra or polyester with four-way stretch. If you want casual comfort, go for cotton jersey. For something romantic, lace works beautifully — just position the pattern above the scallops so they stay visible at the hem.
Elastic
Fold-over elastic is neat and beginner-friendly, while picot elastic adds a delicate lingerie finish. You can also use a wider band elastic at the hem for more support.
Straps. The shoulder straps are adjustable elastic with rings and sliders for a secure fit. After finishing the main top, you’ll attach them as the last step — or, if you want a sporty or swimwear vibe, make simple fixed straps.
Thread, needles & machines
Go for polyester thread with 75/11 needles. You can sew the whole bra on a regular sewing machine with zigzag or elastic stitches. An overlocker is handy but optional.
Cutting & marking. Keep it precise with sharp scissors or a rotary cutter on a healing mat. Mark your notches using chalk and hold everything steady with pins.
💡 If you’re just starting out, here’s my guide to Top 10 Sewing Supplies for Making Women’s Underwear (And Why You’ll Fall in Love With Them)
Preparation Tips
Print your pattern on A4 paper and check the 5×5 cm test square for accuracy. Larger sizes will come on multiple pages — just align the triangle markers (A1+A1) and tape them together.
Place the pattern pieces on the fabric fold where marked. Seam allowance is already included, so you can cut directly along the lines. Transfer strap notches carefully — they’ll help you place your adjustable straps at the end.
Method 1: Double-Layer Sport (support & hidden seams)
This version is ideal for sports or swimwear. The double layer adds structure and hides all raw seams.
Lay the first front piece right-side up. Place the back piece right-side down on top of it (so their right sides are together). Then place the second front piece right-side down over everything (so the two fronts are now facing each other.
Sew both side seams through all the layers.
Now move the back layer out of the way, and sew only the two front layers along the neckline. Flip the whole thing right-side out. Finish the armholes, and underbust with elastic. FOE gives a clean sporty look, when picot adds a delicate edge. For extra support, attach a wide elastic band under the bust.
Finally, attach your adjustable shoulder straps using rings and sliders. If you’ve never made your own, check out my video showing five different methods how to make the straps — they’re all perfect for this crop top.
Method 2: Single-Layer Sport (fast & fabric-friendly)
The single-layer method is great when you’re low on fabric or just want something cozy and comfortable to lounge at home.
Cut one front and one back. Place them right sides together and sew the side seams. If you don’t have an overlocker, finish the raw edges with zigzag or an elastic stitch to keep them tidy. Then sew elastic around the neckline, armholes, and underbust. Leave about 2 cm free at the strap points to add your rings and sliders later. Hem with FOE or use a band elastic loop for a different look.
Once the top is complete, attach your straps.
For extra guidance, follow the Sewing Pattern “Sport” – DIY Crop-Top / Bra With Step-by-Step Tutorial to see how to sew this version with one-layer fabric.
Method 3: Lace Sport with Scallop Hem
Want something more romantic? Try Sport in lace — it’s beautiful and surprisingly simple.
Place the pattern about 1–1.5 cm above the scallop edge of your lace before cutting, so the scallops peek out after sewing. Cut the front and back, sew the side seams, press them toward the back, and topstitch them flat with zigzag or elastic stitch.
Avoid FOE on the scallops themselves. Instead, sew slim elastic (about 1 cm wide) just above the scallop line so the edge stays pretty and decorative. Finish the neckline and armholes with FOE or picot elastic, leaving strap points free.
Attach your adjustable straps at the end, testing the length on your body before sewing.
Fitting & Adjustments
Elastic tip: Never pre-cut elastic. Sew straight from the roll and trim at the end. Stretch the elastic slightly, not the fabric, and keep it even.
Strap tip: Pin your straps in place first then try the bra on, and adjust the length before sewing permanently. This saves you from straps that dig or slip.
If you want more support, you can swap the FOE underbust for a wider band elastic. It lifts the bust and makes Sport perfect for activewear.
Finishing Touches
Trim loose threads, neaten elastic ends, and give your bra a final press.
Pair your Sport top with matching bottoms to make a full swimwear or lingerie set — there are lots of styles to choose from in my underwear sewing pattern collection.
Final Thoughts
Top-Bra “Sport” is simple, flattering, and super versatile. Whether you go for a supportive double-layer, a speedy single-layer, or a dreamy lace version, it’s the kind of top you’ll want to sew on repeat and wear non stop!
