Samara Top

Whether you are a novice stitcher in search of your first dressmaking project, or an experienced crafter yearning for a speedy sewing session, you can’t go wrong with this batwing beauty from Amanda Walker. In just three simple steps you can create a versatile garment that will fit perfectly into your capsule wardrobe. This top has been designed exclusively for jersey and stretch fabrics, so pay close attention to the properties of your material before making a commitment.

Essentials

Fabric, 2m (150cm)

Suggested fabrics

Stretch knit fabrics, such as viscose jersey or cotton jersey

Sizes

8-24

Cutting guide

Front: cut one on the fold
Back: cut one on the fold
Neck band: cut one strip, 4cm x 69cm
Sleeve bands: cut one strip, 4cm x 22cm
1.5cm seam allowance used throughout, except the neckline where a 1cm seam allowance is used.

Download and print the template from sewmag.co.uk and follow the cutting guide. Match the shoulder and sleeve seams of the front and back pieces together, pin, then stitch together with right sides facing. Neaten the seam allowances together and press the seam towards the back.
Sew the two ends of the neckband together with right sides facing to make a circle, then turn the band to the right side, fold in half lengthways and press flat. Overlock or machine stitch the neck band to the front and back neckline, starting by matching the join in the neckband to the centre-back neckline. The neck band is slightly smaller than the neckline so will need stretching to fit. Press the seam allowance downwards so that the band stands up into the neckline.
Lay the back and front pieces together with right sides facing. Match, pin the under sleeves edges and side edges together, then stitch. Neaten the seam allowances together. The ends of the sleeves are finished in the same way as the neckline with the two sleeve bands. Match the join in the bands to the under sleeve seam. Neaten around the base of the top, then fold and press up a 3cm hem. Set your machine to a zig zag stitch, then sew the hem in place.