I’ve learned a lot through the release of my four exercise sewing patterns, and even though each is vigorously tested through my crack team of pattern testers, there are still a few things I’d go back and do differently if I had the chance.
On the XYT Workout Top, providing only one level of support and one cup option is definitely something I’d change if I was releasing it now – as printed, the bra lining is awesome if you want high support for running and other high impact sports and you’re a C cup or smaller.
But two of the most common issues I see with people is that they’re totally unaccustomed to how a fully-supportive compression bra actually feels (I see so many women bouncing all over the place when they run, it makes me weep for their future selves), or that they think they can “get away” without doing an FBA even though they’re busty.
Let’s address those two issues!
It’s too tight – I need less support!
Not planning on doing any running or other high impact sports and only want lighter support? Only use one power mesh layer with the crosswise stretch (ie: going around the body) and add room at the side seams. On the Back Lining piece, you can actually just cheat and cut it a cm or so from the fold since it’s just a rectangle, but on the Front Lining, add a bit to the side, then smooth out the curve to the armhole.
I recently made an adjustment similar to the darker shading for a client who wanted very minimal support for power walking. I’d suggest you do something in between should you want to wear it for yoga, cycling, and other low-impact sports.
I’m bigger than C- cup – I need an FBA!
If you need an FBA in normal patterns, then yes you will definitely need a Full Bust Adjustment (FBA) on a bra lining pattern! (I’d think this would be common sense, but you’d be surprised…)
You can just leave the Back Lining piece alone and just alter the Front Lining piece here, though if you’re really busty, you may benefit from doing the same adjustment to the Front piece, too.
I’ve included these sort of common fit alteration illustrations in my latest VNA Top pattern, so if you purchase that they’re all ready for you!