I’m excited to guide you through sewing a jersey Banksia top, which takes t-shirt making to a whole new level. If you need help or a refresher on sewing with stretchy fabrics, check out my previous post. This project comes together quickly—let’s get started!
First, cut your fabric using your altered stretchy fabric Banksia pattern. Place the top front and back pieces together with right sides facing, and sew the shoulder seams. Sew the collar, and be sure to press it. Although it’s tempting to skip ironing with jersey, pressing is essential for a polished look. I didn’t use interfacing on the collar to keep it drapey like the top, but you can if desired—just use stretch interfacing. Attach the collar to the top, then sew the seam allowance flat against the inside so it doesn’t show from the outside. Be careful not to catch the collar in your stitches, and use a stretch stitch. The topstitching will be concealed once the collar lies flat. Attach the sleeves and sew up the side seams. Hem the bottom of the top and sleeves with a stitch that maintains fabric stretch, and you’re finished! LOOKING FOR MORE BANKSIA POSTS? Preparation Sewing: Darts & Seams Sewing: Basting & Placket prep Sewing: Collars Sewing: Collarless version Sewing: How to sew a placket Sewing: How to sew a placket the easier way Sewing: How to sew a faux placket Sewing: Leaving the placket off Sewing: Flat sleeve insertion Sewing: Sleeveless version Sewing: Long-sleeved version Sewing: Hemming Sewing: Dress version Sewing: Jersey version Some other tutorials you might like to check out: Pattern Alterations: How to turn the pattern into a dress Pattern Alterations: Altering bust dart height Pattern Alterations: Bust adjustments (FBA and SBA) Pattern Alterations: Lengthen the sleeves Pattern Alterations: Drafting different collars Pattern Alterations: Alter the pattern for stretch fabrics DON’T HAVE THE PATTERN YET? Order Banksia today in Sizes XS-XL