Convertible Top - FREE pattern

Considering we just had another snow storm here last weekend, it's a little early for this type of top, but at least I'll be ready when (if) summer finally arrives in Canada.

This top couldn't be any easier to make.  And I love that you can wear it so many different ways!

To get started, first create your pattern.  These measurements are for a small/medium.  If you want to make a large, just make the width of your rectangle a few inches wider.  A good guide to go by is that the width of the rectangle times 2 should be around 10" longer than your bust measurement.

Just make a rectangle with one side slightly longer and then join the top with a gentle angle.  Make sure to mark 5-6.5" from the top on that longer side.  You'll need to remember that when sewing.

Steps:
1) When cutting out your fabric, place the shorter side on the fold.  And while you're at it, cut out a long thin rectangle about 2" wide and 32-40" long.  If you don't have enough fabric you can always use something contrasting, a ribbon or other trim, or just put some elastic in the middle like I did.

A nice soft flowy rayon works best for this top

but you could try a thin well woven T-knit too~

2) With right sides together, sew the long edge of your big rectangle together, stopping at that 6.5" mark.

See how it's still open at the top?

3) Finish your seam edges with a serger or zigzag, iron flat, and then finish the top and bottom edges as well.

4) You need to sew down the seam at the top where we left it open.  Just fold under your seam edge to meet the fold, press and pin, then stitch it down in a long V shape.

5) At the top (the end with the opening that you just sewed down), fold over the finished edge about 3/4" and stitch close to the raw edge to make a casing.

6) Set that piece aside and make a drawstring from your long skinny rectangles.  Hopefully you've cut 2.  Just sew them together at one of the short ends and then, with right sides together, fold the long piece in half lengthwise and stitch.

7) Trim away about half of the seam allowance (you kept it wider for sewing for stability but now we can trim it down).  Using a safety pin or turning tool, turn the whole long thin piece right side out and press.

8) Using a safety pin to work the drawstring through the casing.

9) Try on your new top just to make sure of the length, mark it, and then hem it.  And NOW you're done!

So easy!  You can wear it over your shoulder, tie around your neck or put the tie in the front or the back. You can add elastic on the bottom edge or make it a little longer and add a peplum.  You can make it a lot longer and turn it into a dress.  So many options!

How will you wear yours?  Leave a comment below~