Hi Emily,

Hello, I have just started learning how to sew and your blog has helped me tremendously. Before beginning working with patterns I have made the bodice block (which I must add is absolutely fantastic and very easy to follow). However, I have decided I wanted to try and attempt to make a top with the bodice block but am slightly confused as to how you would finish the neck of the bodice without leaving a raw edge.

Naveen

Hi Naveen,

Thank you for reaching out. I'm glad you are going to give drafting a top a go!

This is a question that highlights the difference between a pattern block and a pattern. For a pattern block, you are looking at getting a nice close fit, while a pattern is more about the design and will include wearing ease.

GOING FROM BLOCK TO PATTERN

If you'd like to know more about the difference between patterns and blocks and how to use a block to draft a pattern, I've linked some useful resources below:

For a pattern you also need to think about how you will finish the seams. Have you downloaded my e-book, The Little Book of Seam Finishes? This is a great place to start if you're trying to familiarise yourself with finishing options.

FINISHING NECKLINES AND ARMHOLES

For finishing the neckline and armhole of a top, my go-to finishes would be bias binding or creating a neck and armhole facing or an all-in one facing.

I think getting familiar with the block is a great idea, but I do think it might be worth sewing a pattern before trying to draft your own. This will allow you to familiarise yourself with the terminology and things to think about when drafting your own patterns.

If you'd like guidance on how to sew either neckline option I suggested above, the Collins top might be a good option for you, as one of these views has an all-in-one facing and the other has a bias bound neckline.

Happy sewing,

Emily

P.S. This week an interview aired on ABC RN's radio show 'Life Matters' about the online sewing moment, that I was interviewed for. If you would like to have a listen, you can find it here.

resources mentioned in this issue

What is a pattern block? Article can be found here.
How to draft a simple summer top. Tutorial can be found here.
Little book of seam finishes can be found here.
How to attach bias binding. Tutorial can be found here.
How to draft an all in one facing. Tutorial can be found here.
The Collins top pattern can be found here.

P.P.S. Would you like to know what the Q & A series is all about? This page tells you a little bit more about the motive behind the series. Past issues from the Q & A series can be found here.

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