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

Step 3: Cutting Out Your Pattern Pieces

Once you have the pattern printed out on paper and you've chosen your size, the next step is to cut out your fabric.

BEGINNER'S GUIDE: HOW TO READ A SEWING PATTERN

The first thing is to cut out the paper pieces which correspond do your size. Do not use your fabric scissors for this, as paper will dull the blades.

Make sure your fabric is pre-washed in case it shrinks.

You should also press your fabric before you begin cutting out, to ensure a nice neat finish.

Next, lay your fabric down on a flat surface such as the floor or a cutting table and position the pattern pieces on top, according to the layplan.

The front and back pieces are both cut on the fold, so you will see that the layplan shows the fabric folded. DO NOT cut along the fold line.

Using pins or pattern weights to keep your pattern pieces in place, cut out your fabric to match the paper pieces. Make sure you transfer any markings before removing the paper pieces.

ESSENTIAL GUIDE: FABRIC MARKING TOOLS

Step 4: Make Your Top!

Pin and stitch the front to the back at the sides, stopping stitching at the dot. Press the seams open and finish the seams.

BEGINNER'S GUIDE: Essential Seam Finishes for Dressmaking

Stitch the sleeve underarm seams.

With RST, pin the sleeve into the armhole, matching notches and seams. Stitch. Trim the seam and press towards the sleeve.

To make the neck casing for the elastic, turn 1.5cm to the inside on the top edge. Turn under 6mm on the raw edge. Press. Stitch and leave an opening to insert the elastic.

Cut a piece of elastic using the guide. Attach the elastic to a safety pin and insert through the casing.

Lap the ends of the elastic over each other and stitch together. Stitch the opening closed.

Finish the lower edge and armholes with a 1.5cm narrow hem. Turn up 1.5cm, press, open out and turn in the raw edge to meet the crease. Turn up, pin and stitch.

Finish the side openings in the same way.

Beginner's Guide to Sewing

This pattern is part of our Learn to Sew series! Join us with a new tutorial each week to build your sewing skills and discover the magic of making your own clothes.

Find the full series here