Signature Box Top

Pin side seams together starting at end points and matching notches. Make sure to unfold pre-pressed hems. Pin as needed: Make sure bottom hem is unfolded: Stitch side seam at 3/8'' seam allowance. Finish raw edge with zig-zag stitch or serger.

With wrong side of garment facing up, press center front seam flat. Starting at bottom of shirt, top stitch 3/8''from center front. 3/8'' is a design aesthetic choice, but also a nice width to secure center front seam allowance to bodice. Take your time at the back tack at the neckline (I try to back tack right on top of first stitch to keep it looking clean), I back tack about 3 stitches, and forward again 3 stitches for this step).  Start at top of neckline on other side and continue stitching top stich 3/8'' from center front: Trim any...

BODICE HEMS Lay bodice back, wrong side up on ironing board. Starting at center back, press 3/8'' fold, working your way to sides of pattern piece. First fold: Starting at center back again, fold second time 3/8'', first fold should help guide second fold. Fold all the way to bodice sides. Do the same for bodice front. SLEEVE HEMS At this point your shoulder seams will be already stitched together (raw edges finished with zig zag or serger): with wrong side facing up, fold 3/8'' first, start at shoulder seam and work your way to side seams. Fold second fold...

Understitching can create a more polished look for necklines, and can help prevent a neck facing from shifting out of place.   Finger press the seam allowance up towards the neck facing. This is in preparation to stitch the neck facing to the seam allowance. Make sure the seam allowance is pressed towards neck facing. Start at shoulder seam, understitch 1/8'' from edge of neckline seam. End understitch about 1'' from center front. Note under stitch is not on outside of shirt. Do the same technique to the other side. This side is a bit trickier, you will need to...

HEMMING BODICE Refold hems at side seams, this can be done with a finger press and securing with a pin. Pin hem as needed, match center front seam to center front seam. Stitch hem 1/8'' from edge of hem. Make sure to back tack at start (and end). Beginner tip- stitch bodice back first for practice. End at side seam, make sure to back tack: It isn't uncommon for your stitching to be a little rippled or puckered. This can be pressed out with an iron. If it is severe, it may be a needle/machine issue. You can troubleshoot this...