Sewing Tutorial: Alexandra Dress, Additional Finishes

The following instructions are simplified steps on how to sew the collar and sleeve hem ties on the Alexandra Dress. I have taken a video of each step to help explain the process for those that are not familiar with this sewing method.

The pattern for the Alexandra Dress is available as a PDF download here. The full tutorial for sewing the dress from start to finish can be found here.

Step 1 

Starting with one of the tie pieces, pin the right side of the tie piece to the wrong side of the neck edge or sleeve hem. The pattern will have notches to match these pieces together. Then stitch together between the 2 notches.

Beginner tip* If sewing on curved edges it is recommended that you stay stitch both edges of the fabric before sewing them together to prevent them from stretching.

Step 2

After stitching the two pieces together, fold the tie down and press the seam allowance towards the tie.

Step 3 

On the remaining tie piece, fold the seam allowance over along the top edge and press in place between the notches.

Step 4 

Next, place the attached tie right side up and place the other tie on top, right side down. Pin the ties together along all sides excluding the space that is stitched to the sleeve/neck. Then stitch closed.

Step 5

Clip the corners of the tie to reduce the bulk when it is turned through. Then turn the tie through using scissors or another pointy object.

Step 6

Press the ties ensuring the edges are rolled out neatly and the corners are nice and sharp. Ensure the seam allowance along the neck/sleeve edge is pressed down internally into the tie.

Step 7

Pin the last of the tie to the sleeve/neck, closing the hole that you previously turned the tie through. You want to pin it so that the folded edge just covers the stitch line underneath.

Step 8

Pin stitch the opening closed. This can also be hand sewn if you would rather not see the top stitching shown below.

The process is now complete. I hope you found this mini-tutorial helpful. If you have not used this method before I recommend practicing on some scrap fabric, so when it comes to sewing the actual dress you will have a lot more confidence and hopefully, less unpicking will be required, if at all.

If you happen to make the Alexandra Dress I’d love to see your creations, please tag me on Instagram at @at_the_seams_patterns