Sewing Tutorial: Scarf Tie Back Top

Have you ever tried to tie a scarf as a top and it just won’t fit right, it falls down, or doesn’t feel secure?
This pattern has been made to fit the bust and stays in place so you can feel confident when wearing it.
The tie has been designed to cover the back of your bra if you choose to wear a strapless bra for extra support. There is also the option to add straps if desired.
This style is for advanced beginners however I am confident if you read the instructions below you will be able to make this even as a beginner sewer, it is fully bagged out there for an overlocker/serger is not needed, all you need is a basic sewing machine,

Also don’t be afraid to ask questions in the comments below if you need. I’m here to help. So let’s get started.

To begin you will need the following things

Materials

• Scarf Tie Back Top paper pattern
• 0.6-0.8m fabric
• 0.4m lining
• cotton thread

Tools

• scissors
• pins
• sewing machine
• iron

Tips

• Ensure your fabric is washed, dried, and pressed before you start cutting. For instance, there is nothing worse than washing your beautiful garment and it shrinks, or even more annoying the lining shrinks and the main doesn’t so your garment is all pulled out of shape and is unwearable.

Step 1 

Cut all main and lining pieces accurately on the correct grain, ensuring all notches are clipped.

Beginner tip* If you can afford to purchase a rotary cutter and cutting mat, I find this more accurate and time-efficient. 

Step 2 

Sew bust darts on main and lining of front bodice, press down.

Beginner tip* If needed you can draw the dart lines onto the fabric with dressmaker’s chalk to ensure you sew a neat straight dart.

Step 3 – Optional if using straps

Stitch straps, trim seam allowance and turn through, press and top-stitch if desired.

Step 4 

Sew side seams of main and lining, press open. (leave a 4cm wide opening in one side of the lining to turn the garment though later)

Beginner tip* Do not skip pressing, pressing ensures your garment gives a neat professional finish to your garment and will ensure it sits nice and flat on the body.

Step 5 – Optional if using straps

Place main and lining together, right sides together, pin straps in position on front and back using the notches on the pattern for placement.

Step 6 

Sew along top and bottom edges and tie ends, then clip corners.

Step 7 

Turn garment through the opening left in the lining side seam and press seam edges flat.

Step 8 

Close opening in side seam with an invisible ladder stitch

Your scarf tie back top is now complete. How did you go? Let me know in the comments below. Did you add straps or leave them out?

I also have a number of other top patterns that don’t need an overlocker available for purchase here.

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