Anyone ever made a leotard and how hard was it?

[JillBYeats]

Just that really. DD does ballet and is spending a fortune on leotards and the like and I would like to try my hand at producing one but I am a self-taught, beginner sewer. I have a basic machine and have made a few skirts, a dress and a shirt plus a lot of clothing adjustments. I am not always successful (as think I am too careless to be a good sewer). Anyone? Anyone?

Yes, many years ago (girls now grown up). As I remember, it wasn't too difficult, just got to be careful as the fabric can be a bit slippy to work with.

It's really easy. Jalie for patterns, fabric land for cheap Lycra and stretch net. Even tutu's aren't that hard.

You will need a machine with a stretch stitch, and a ballpoint needle.

what is a stretch stitch - my machine is very basic - dh bought it as a surprise (to my horror) present many years ago and the lady in the Singer shop recommended this one with 5 stitches, well, I say 5 but really it's two - straight or zigzag (4 different widths of zigzag make up the 5) so I guess I don't have a "stretch stitch"?

and I presume I cna buy a ballpoint needle in a sewing shop - what's it for.

again - I really am amateur

I think zigzag is a stretch stitch (or that's how I've always used it...)

A stretch stitch is a very close zigzag, so it looks like a normal stitch but slightly goes back on itself so stretches with the fabric.

A ballpoint or stretch needle is for stretch or jersey type fabrics. So the needle slips in between the weave and doesn't tear the fabric, which a normal sharp needle might do.