Tutorial Tuesday: How to add flutters to the Fair & Square Top and Dress Pattern


After a long summer hiatus, Tutorial Tuesday returns today!  Today we turn to the Fair & Square Top and Dress pattern.  This is a pattern I find myself reaching for over and over again.  It is a summer top or sundress but also an adorable jumper in cooler weather.  It dresses up and down.  It is really a perfect go to pattern.

Top length with a border
print and Sterling Leggings
Dress length layered for
fall with a long sleeve
tee and boots

 
Top length with bias hem
and Pretty Pantaloons
Dress length for spring
with a tee and capri tights


Another way to layer. Top length
with skinny jeans and a cardigan.

Today We're sharing how to add flutter sleeves to the Fair & Square pattern making it even more versatile.  Ready? Let's get started!

Begin by cutting out each of the pattern pieces as directed.  Then cut two flutters. To keep this easy we will start with rectangles.  For this 6-12 month size I cut rectangles that are 2 1/2" x 12".  For larger sizes you may want to cut rectangles up to 1" wider and 4" longer.  Keep in mind that the longer the rectangle is, the more gathered the flutter will be.


Now shape the rectangle.
  • Fold each flutter in half so that the short ends are together.  
  • Measure and mark 3/4" on the short cut (not folded) edge.  
  • Draw a gentle curve from that mark to the long edge of the flutter near the fold.
  • Cut on this line. We now have a shaped flutter.
  • Repeat for the second flutter.

Now we will add the flutter into the construction of the Fair & Square dress.  If you have made the Butterfly Dress pattern then this will sound very familiar.
  • I  opted to not add the included bow, but instead stitched some crochet lace to the center of the yoke.
  • Sew the shoulder seams for both main fabric and lining as directed in the pattern. Also press bottom edges of the liner up 1/2".
  • Before proceeding with the institutions we will now prepare and attach the flutters.
  • Hem the curved edge of the flutters with a narrow hem by folding under 1/4" and then another 1/4".  Stitch close to the folded edge.
  • Sew two rows of gathering stitches along the straight edge, one at 3/8" and the second at 5/8".

  • With right sides together, pin each end of the flutters to the yoke leaving 3/4" clear at each end of the yoke. Gather to fit.
  • Pin and baste in place.


Now continue with the Fair & Square instructions picking up were where we left off.  To accommodate the flutters, it is easiest to begin with sewing the neck edges of the main and lining. Then sew the armhole edges rolling the flutters to fit between the layers if necessary. 

That's it! Finish off your top or dress according to the pattern instructions and enjoy your Fair & Square with flutters.















Some other tutorial links you might enjoy:

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