Ruffles are a great way of adding a feminine detail to a garment and here, this top combines a classic line with a dainty trim.Amanda Walker’s pattern allows you to practise sewing darts and concealed zips as you construct a charming spring staple. Our version is sewn from cotton, but this design would also work in chiffon.
ESSENTIALS
Fabric: main, 1m (150cm); contrast, 50cm Lightweight fusible interfacing Concealed zip, 23cm
SUGGESTED FABRICS
Lightweight woven fabrics, such as cotton poplin or chiffon. For the contrast frill, use broderie anglaise.
SIZES
8-20
CUTTING GUIDE
Front: cut one on the fold from main
Front facing: cut one on the fold from main
Back: cut one pair from main
Back facing: cut one pair from main
Ruffle: cut two on the fold from contrast
1.5cm seam allowance used throughout, unless otherwise stated.
1 Download the pattern at sewmag.co.uk, then print out and follow the cutting guide. Cut out all the pieces according to the cutting guide, then transfer any markings. Stitch bust darts into the front as indicated, sewing from the edge to the points, then press them towards the armholes. Neaten the front, back and centre-back seam edges using an overlock or zig zag stitch. Match the shoulders on the front and back, right sides together, then pin and sew.
2 Iron interfacing onto the front and back facing pieces, then neaten at the bases. Match the front and back at the shoulder seams, pin right sides together, then stitch. Lay the top out flat with the facing on top, right sides together. Pin, then sew at the neckline. Clip the curved seams, then press it down and understitch (see Core Skill panel).
3 Lay the top out as before, matching the edges between the facing and top around the armholes, then pin and sew. Clip the curves of the seam allowances then turn right side out. Tease out the neckline and armhole allowances, then press flat.
4 Match the front and back at the side seams and pin. Sew from the base to the underarm and into the facing, making sure the armhole seams are open. Stitch the side seams and the small part of the facing in a continuous line. Press open, fold the facing inside, then hand stitch the edge to the side seam.
5 Pin and sew the centre-back seam edges, leaving a 20cm gap at the top for the zip. Fold and press the seam allowance along the two sides, then open out. With right sides
