How to Make Your Own Cami Insert

The finished width of the small cami is 8 1/2 inches, the finished width of the medium cami is 10 1/2 inches. Use a measuring tape to determine which size is best for you by measuring between your bra straps, just under your neck. Keep in mind that the upper corners of the cami will be attached to your bra strap. (These 2 sizes will fit most people, from teens to some adults who are obese, so be sure to measure.) The finished width of the large cami is 12 1/2 inches.

Use a paper sack to make a pattern. For the small size, cut a rectangle 8 1/2 inches wide by 6 1/2 inches long. For medium: 10 1/2 inches wide by 8 1/2 inches long. For large: 12 1/2 inches wide by 10 1/2 inches long. On the bottom edge of the rectangle, measure in 2 inches on each side and use a pen to make a dot at those locations. (See Fig. 1 for small, Fig. 1A for medium, and Fig. 1B for large.)

Use a ruler to draw a line from the dots to the upper edge of the pattern. (See Fig. 2) Cut out the pattern.

Prepare the fabric. If the fabric is washable, wash it. If it is fabric that can be put in the dryer, do so. If not, hang it to dry. Press if necessary.

You can make your cami using a single layer of fabric, or a double layer.

Single Layer: Pin the pattern to the material and cut around it, then do a machine zigzag stitch around all 4 sides of the cami.

Double Layer: For small, you will need a piece of fabric a little larger than 8 1/2 inches wide by 13 inches long. For medium: a little larger than 10 1/2 inches wide by 17 inches long. For large: a little larger than 12 1/2 inches wide by 21 inches long.

Fold the material in half, lengthwise. Press the fold, if you feel like ironing. Place the top of the pattern on the folded edge of the fabric, pin the pattern in place, cut out the cami, then do a machine zigzag stitch around the sides and bottom of the cami.

Evenly pin lace across the top of the cami, allowing part of the lace to extend above the top of the fabric, then machine stitch in place.

You can sew snaps or Velcro on the back, upper corners of your cami and on your bra or slip straps to hold the cami in place while you wear it, or you can just use safety pins to secure it.

Wash your cami by hand in warm water and detergent. Do not use bleach. Place on a towel on a flat surface to dry, smoothing with your hand so that no ironing should be required.

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