-  before I got the Treasure Chest (and sometimes after, if i didn't have the TC along with me).

Start off with a strapless, preferably with some firm or rigid cups (1).  Stuff socks or panties or whatever in to them as a base, making sure not to over or under fill.   Take a “normal” bra (2), one that fits a little tight and put it over the first bra.  The secret is in the construction of the cups.  Look for one with a thin smooth layer over kind of a foam support.  Make a tiny incision (half inch or so) in the location of the nipples.  Then take two baby bottle nipples (3) (different kinds make for different looking nipples, I liked the tall clear ones) and stuff them full of toilet paper so they have some firmness.  Pinch the bases together with your fingers and insert them in the little incisions.  Finally, take your sports bra (4) and put it over top.  You want one that’s a little tight, but not so tight that it crushes the nipples and doesn’t give them a chance to stick up.  Also try to get a flesh colored one.