A sleeveless bodice is always an option if you want to avoid having to attach sleeves. And if you have a lining, you can finish the armholes, too. However, this will also add some extra steps to the sewing process. First, you need to prepare the sleeves. Leave, for example, 0.16in./0.4cm seam allowance at the short ends, which you will close next ( 3.).

When you have a child who is just beginning to learn how to sew, why not take them to the sewing machine yourself? You can teach them how to use this equipment by attaching a few easy on and off instructional videos. This barbie sewing machine is a great tool in teaching kids how to be independent and self sufficient. With just a few simple lessons learned each day, this could very well become their new favorite pastime instead of playing video games or engaging in television. This is probably the easiest type of top as it has no sleeves, and hence the perfect first example of a lined bodice. The front part consists of three panels.

Diaries & Calendars

Remember that you need to sew accurately as at this scale even a small error will show more easily.

Don’t close the side seams before you have attached the sleeves. It’s much easier to sew the sleeves on while the bodice lays flat like this. Also the sleeve seams should not be closed yet. In addition to the built in needles there are also a bobbin and two dials for changing colors. This barbie sewing machine comes in two basic colors blue and pink. The two dials control the size of the thread – a smaller one for light weight fabrics and a larger one for very heavy fabrics. The large dial also controls the number of stitches you will make in a single go. Once the sleeves are attached, trim off excess seam allowance as usual, and then you can close the side seams and sleeve seams. The side seam of the lining is sewn separately in this case so that the seam allowance remains hidden. Lined Bodice without Sleeves

Creative Play

Here’s a basic top with bust darts. You’ll need to close the darts and shoulder seams of both layers at first. See points 1 and 2. Trim off excess seam allowance and corners. Make clips that enable you to turn the lining to the wrong side.