Have you got your bodice pattern ready?  Today we're going to use it make this...

If you need some more information about bodice patterns, have a look here.

This tutorial has quite a lot of assumed knowledge  - it's not for the complete beginner but for someone who feels reasonably confident with the basics of sewing and wants to experiment with their basic patterns a little more.

Through this tutorial I hope that you come to understand  a few things about pattern alteration - 

• Pattern alteration is not an exact science - there is a lot of tweaking involved.  For that reason, don't use your favourite/ most  expensive material the first time you make up an altered pattern.  Ask me how I know!
• Know what the seam allowance is on your basic pattern is and keep it consistent with any pieces that you draft.
• Bias tape  is your best friend!  It's so much easier to use  and so much more flexible than drafting facings and gives you a lovely finish.
• Gathered sleeves are very forgiving and perfect for the beginner.
• Most things are fixable!  See how the placket in the picture is a bit wonky?  It's because I made the buttonholes too big.  A few stitches on the end of each button hole and voila - a placket that sits much better!

If you'd like to see how I took a basic bodice pattern and made it into the modern vintage top then just click  read more.

Oh... and before you start sewing - don't forget we have a giveaway on at the moment.  If you'd like to enter, the odds are definitely in your favour!