Check out how we added a little topstitching to the neckline of the Alma Blouse.
Here’s how we did it:
We sewed the first row of stitching, following the 1 centimetre (3/8″) guideline on my sewing machine.
After that, we moved the presser foot to the left as far as it would go, and used the edge of the presser foot as a guide for the second and third rows of stitching.
The key to making it easy to topstitch is to use the edge of your presser foot as a guide, once you stitch the first line close to the edge.
It’s subtle, but pretty. On this fabric, it sort of gets lost in the print and the fact that you can see the outline of the facing.
Topstitching adds more structure to the neckline, and frames the face nicely. And we love that a bird ended up swooping across the neckline!
For more impact, try using a contrast colour thread. Or plan your project around the topstitching, with white thread on a black blouse.
You could add more or less rows of stitching if you wanted. Just move them closer together or farther apart! If you’re making the scoop neck view (the neckline on View C) you’ll have more room to add more rows of stitching as there’s no centre ‘V’ to go around.
An added bonus: the extra topstitching will keep the facing in place, making it less likely to flop out of your neckline!
Want to get started on your own Alma blouse? Get the pattern here.
Neat! And such a cute anti-flopping measure ;-)
I could also envision using decorative stitches for topstitching, especially on a solid fabric.
Very pretty. Love it. I also like PerlenDiva’s decorative stitching idea. Sweet. Now I’m REALLY dying to work on my first Alma.
Love the topstitching!!!
I agree with the comments above, the topstitching looks great. Can’t wait to see this blouse on you!
Beautiful topstitching! And good to keep your facing in place.
I love the V notch neckline the best for the Alma. Can’t wait to make this up!
I like the topstitching a lot too. I think I will have a few versions of this, so I will try one with topstitching.
Great addition to this blouse. Makes me want to go topstitch crazy on all my projects.
I really like this idea, could definitely have some fun with contrasting thread. Beautiful fabric even if it is on the sheer side :-) you should make a pretty camisole to wear under
The topstitching just finishes off this lovely pattern. You are so talented. I am an older lady and have certainly learned a lot from your website since I found you yesterday. In fact, I can’t seem to get away from the computer…..this is not good. God bless and have a wonderful life sewing.
I love the look of topstitching along a neckline, and it works really nicely for this blouse. I agree that it gives the neckline just a little more structure, and I like the professional look of it. Nice job! : )
Hey! I like the idea of the topstitching.
I somehow always end up with sheer fabrics, don’t really know why, So I’m always grumpy about visible facings, seams and stuff like that.
Maybe it can be an idea to make the facing in a color that is close to your skin color, that way the facing will blend in when you wear it.
Very cute! I can’t wait to get home where my pattern will be waiting so I can get started. :)
/Agneta
Lovely distraction!
Hi, I read your blog every so often. I have been sewing my own clothes for a few years now. I love the light weight fabrics for summer. Everyone talks about them being see through, and or adding cost by lining the fabric. I use to just cut two layers of the same fabric and use it as one piece when I sew it together, but as you know cotton lawn/voile can get quite expensive. I finally bought some muslin and made myself a full slip and a cami from a regular pattern for a dress. I put thin straps on the slip and cami and my problem is solved for about 7 dollars. Now when I get that beautiful fabric for a summer outfit I don’t have to double the price. Its still very light weight and no peep shows!!