Free Knitting Pattern for a Striped Rainbow Bikini.

This vintage knitting and crochet pattern set creates a bikini swimsuit ensemble, including a bikini bottom (referred to as a “slip”) and a bikini top (referred to as a “bra”), along with an optional separate cropped top. The pattern utilizes a combination of techniques, including stripes, shaping through increases and decreases, and short rows. The bikini bottom and top portions employ a vibrant, seven-color striped pattern using PINGOUIN JERICHO yarn (or a suitable substitute).

The bikini bottom (“slip”) is worked primarily in single crochet stripes, with detailed shaping to create the curves of the body. It features a gusset for reinforcement and instructions for adding elastic at the waist for a secure fit, and buttonholes. Plaited cords act as ties. The bikini top (“bra”) is knitted, also worked in stripes, with shaping for the cups, and includes instructions for knitted straps and plaited cord ties. The separate, optional top is cropped and features a unique shape created with short rows, and knitted straps. The pattern includes instructions for creating plaited cords, which are used as ties.

• Measurements:
  • To Fit Bust: 32 inches. The pattern indicates that instructions for larger sizes are given in brackets, but only one size is fully presented in the provided text. The bracketed numbers likely refer to larger sizes, though this is not entirely clear. The bottoms do not state a size.
• Skill Level: Given the terse instructions, complex shaping, multiple pieces, combination of crochet and knitting, and lack of detailed explanations, this pattern is best suited for Advanced knitters and crocheters with experience in interpreting vintage patterns.
• Materials Needed:
  • Yarn:
    • PINGOUIN JERICHO (light weight yarn) in seven colors:
      • A – Yellow
      • B – Orange
      • C – Bright Pink
      • D – Red
      • E – Violet
      • F- Blue
      • G – Bright Green
    (The pattern suggests referring to an “interchangeable chart on page 6” for substituting yarns, but this chart is not included in the provided text.)
  • Needles/Hooks:
    • Crochet Hook Size C/2
    • Knitting Needles: Sizes No. 2, No. 11 (These are likely UK sizes; a conversion chart would be needed to determine US equivalents. A very rough estimate would be US 0-1 for No. 11, and US 2-3 for No. 2, but this must be verified.)
  • Notions:
    • Sewing needle
    • Elastic (for slip waist)
    • Tapestry needle (likely, for weaving in ends)
• Gauge: 32 dc. and 36 rows to 4 inches. This is a very tight gauge.