Undaunted © 2010 Jennifer Casa for Sew,Mama,Sew! jchandmade.typepad.com / sewmamasew.com

Please do not reproduce or redistribute this pattern in any form without expressed written permission. Page 1

undaunted : a simple boat-neck top :

This great little summer top has got it going on — pretty fabric, flattering + forgiving fit, and it can be worn in a variety of ways. Try a slightly longer version to throw on over your bathing suit. In cooler weather, layer one made in wool jersey over a long-sleeved top. Go for it!

Time needed: less than 1 hour Measurement: When made using the dimensions given, this piece easily fits medium/large. That said, it is basically two trapezoids joined on the sides. So go on and shorten it, lengthen it, narrow it, widen it — have at it! After all, this is your top. Here’s what you need: * 1.5—2 yards of main fabric * Elastic thread * Ruler * Water-soluble pen * Coordinating thread (optional) * Iron

Note : be sure to wash your fabrics prior to sewing to remove sizing and allow for shrinkage

Step 1: Cut the Fabric You need to cut two trapezoid-shaped pieces, measuring: * 22” wide at the top widening to 26” wide at the bottom * 28” in length top to bottom I suggest doing it as follows: Fold the fabric selvedge to selvedge with RS together. Cut out TWO pieces using the fold to your advantage.

Dimensions right here —>

Step 2: Finish the Hem + Necklines Fold the top of each piece over 1/4” toward the WS. Press, and then fold it over another 1/4”, and press again. Topstitch on the RS using a 1/8” seam allowance. Repeat this for the neckline on the other piece. Now do the same thing for the bottom edge (hemline) of

both trapezoid pieces.

Undaunted © 2010 Jennifer Casa for Sew,Mama,Sew! jchandmade.typepad.com / sewmamasew.com

Please do not reproduce or redistribute this pattern in any form without expressed written permission. Page 2

Step 3: Create the Forgiving Waistline Hand wind a bobbin with elasticized thread and put it into your machine. Stitch 1 row on the RS, spaced 1” above the hemline. Backstitch at the beginning and end. Repeat this for 4 more rows spaced 1/2” apart. Now repeat this entire process with the other piece. With a hot steam iron, press the RS of the fabric right along those elasticized stitches working

slowly from selvedge to selvedge. You will see the waistline magically shrink up! (I know, if only…)

Step 4: Seam the Sides Place your two pieces RS together. Pin each side together starting 9” down

from the top going down to the hemline. Stitch the sides using a 1/4” seam

allowance. Backstitch at beginning and end. Since I do not have a serger, I chose to do an

overlock stitch over the raw edges on the WS. Not only will it keep it from fraying in the wash, but it will also secure those elasticized ends in place.

Step 5: Create the Boat-Neck Overlap the top

neckline edges 4” where it will rest on each shoulder.

Pin in place. Stitch the boat-neck

in place on the RS —(Stitch “in the ditch,” using the line of stitches as a guide.)

Undaunted © 2010 Jennifer Casa for Sew,Mama,Sew! jchandmade.typepad.com / sewmamasew.com

Please do not reproduce or redistribute this pattern in any form without expressed written permission. Page 3

Step 6: Finishing Fold the fabric at one of the armholes over 1/4”

toward the WS. Press, then fold it over another 1/4”, and press again. Topstitch on the RS using a 1/8” seam allowance. Repeat this for the other armhole. Slip it over your head with a pretty camisole peeking over your shoulder and you’re ready for pretty much anything.

Be undaunted.

Whip up a few simple tops to expand your summer wardrobe.

Adjust the dimensions for any occasion,

and fit + flatter your figure — and enjoy!

- Jennifer