Learn to Sew Part 2: Start at the Top, Simple Blouse FREE PATTERN
This sweet smock style is great for all shapes and sizes and doesn't use much fabric! We've chosen it for our Learn to Sew series because it's quick and easy to make and is perfect for getting to grips with all the basic techniques you need to get started in dressmaking.
You will need:
- 1.4m 115cm-wide or 1.15m 150cm-wide lightweight woven fabric like cotton lawn or viscose
- 80cm 6mm elastic for arms
- 80cm 6mm elastic for neckline
Pattern Notes
- Use a 1.5cm seam allowance throughout
- Mark your back bodice with a small piece of masking tape to avoid getting the pieces mixed up
STEP 1: PRINT YOUR PATTERN TEMPLATES
The first thing you'll need to do is print out the pattern. Pattern pieces for a garment are quite big, so you will need to print out and stick together multiple sheets.
DOWNLOAD YOUR PATTERN TEMPLATES HERE:
BEGINNER'S GUIDE: HOW TO ASSEMBLE A PDF SEWING PATTERN
Step 2: Sizing
Before you start sewing, you will need to choose a size. This pattern is a super-simple design which comes in three sizes, to fit a UK size 8-10, 12-14 or 16-18. Most dressmaking patterns have more sizes to choose from, but we chose this one for beginners as it will be easier to work with with fewer sizes. It's shown in the second size on Kayleigh, who is a UK size 14.
You will need to take your own measurements and compare them to the measurement table for this pattern. Here's our step-by-step tutorial for taking your measurements, including a free downloadable quick reference guide:
DRESSMAKING MASTERCLASS: TAKING ACCURATE MEASUREMENTS
This article is tagged as: