How to Sew Easy Open Front Blouse: Step by Step DIY

In this post, you will learn how to sew open front blouse.

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Are you ready to create a stunning open front blouse that’s both chic and beginner-friendly? Whether you’re new to sewing or just looking for an easy and stylish project, this tutorial is perfect for you! In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to sew a long sleeve open front top with a beautiful bow details. And guess what? You’ll also get a blouse pattern free download to make this process a breeze.

This versatile top is a fantastic addition to your wardrobe, pairing effortlessly with your favorite outfits. From casual days to fancy evenings, this piece is sure to turn heads. So, grab your sewing machine, gather some enough fabric, and let’s get sewing!

What is an Open Front Top

An open front top is a stylish and versatile garment designed with a front that remains open, rather than being fully closed or buttoned up. It’s perfect for layering over other pieces and can be tied, draped, or left flowing depending on your style preference.

Often, open front blouses feature additional design elements like bows, belts, or unique trims to enhance their elegance. They come in various styles, such as long sleeve open front tops, which are perfect for cooler weather or more formal occasions. These tops can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for everything from casual outings to workplace attire.

When sewing your own open front blouse, you’ll work with details like finishing raw edges, stitching side seams, and shaping the front pieces to achieve the perfect fit. This type of garment is beginner-friendly, as the design usually involves straightforward patterns and assembly, making it a great choice for anyone looking to expand their sewing skills.

With the right blouse pattern and a little creativity, you can create an open front top that fits your style perfectly and becomes a favorite in your collection of favorite outfits.

Essential Materials

Before we start sewing, let’s gather all the materials and tools you’ll need for this project. If you don’t have some of these on hand, don’t worry—there are plenty of affordable options available at local stores or online.

Materials:

• Bedsheet: Choose one that’s soft and breathable, like cotton or linen.
• Sewing thread: Match the color to your fabric.
• Sewing pattern: Download the free blouse pattern provided in this post (I’ll cover this in more detail later).
• Ribbon or extra fabric: For creating the bow ties. Alternatively, you can use scraps from your bedsheet.

Tools:

• Sewing machine: A basic machine is all you need.
• Scissors: Fabric scissors work best.
• Measuring tape: Accuracy is key for a well-fitting blouse.
• Pins: To hold your fabric in place while sewing.
• Iron and ironing board: To press seams and remove wrinkles.
• Chalk or fabric marker: For marking the fabric when cutting the pattern.
• Seam ripper: Mistakes are part of sewing! A seam ripper will help you remove stitches cleanly without damaging your fabric. Learn how to use it here.

You will also need a magnetic seam guide or a magnet to help you sew evenly.

Selecting the Perfect Bedsheet for Your Blouse

Repurposing a bedsheet into a stylish blouse is a brilliant way to recycle while creating something unique! However, not all bedsheets are suitable for clothing projects. To ensure your blouse turns out comfortable, durable, and fabulous, you’ll need to choose the right one carefully.

What to Look for in a Bedsheet

• Fabric Type
  Opt for natural fabrics like cotton or linen, as they are breathable, soft, and easy to sew. These materials not only feel great against the skin but also drape beautifully for garments. Steer clear of synthetic options like polyester, which can be stiff, less comfortable, and harder to work with.
• Size Matters
  Make sure the bedsheet is large enough to accommodate your project. A full-size or queen-size sheet is ideal for crafting a blouse with all the necessary elements, including bow ties and sleeves.
• Color and Pattern
  Choose a bedsheet that matches your vision for the blouse. Solid colors are beginner-friendly and versatile, while bold patterns or prints can make your blouse a statement piece. Don’t shy away from florals, stripes, or even vintage designs if they suit your style!

By considering these factors, you can transform a simple bedsheet into a chic, one-of-a-kind blouse that combines sustainability with fashion.

How to Self-Draft a Custom Fit Open Front Top Sewing Pattern

In this video tutorial, I’m showing you how to draft your own custom pattern from scratch! and here how to add bust darts for best possible fit.

Sizing Instructions

Tools and materials you need for measuring yourself

• A measuring tape
• A notebook and a pencil
• A mirror
• A friend or a helper (optional, but recommended)

To choose the best size , you need to measure your :

• Chest measurement: Measure around the fullest part of your chest.

You may now utilize the size chart provided below to compare your measurements and choose the most suitable option. In case your measurement falls between two sizes, you have the flexibility to select the fit that suits your preference, whether it be slightly loose or fitted. Additionally, if necessary, you can make adjustments to the pattern to ensure it aligns with your true size.

Size Chart

According to your measurements, you can check the size chart to find the best size for you.

Blouse Pattern Free

If you like bell sleeve to this top, here is detailed tutorial with free pattern for it.

If simple sleeve you like more , here you can download free pattern.

At the start of the video, I demonstrate a simple hack to modify the basic pattern and achieve the exact design of this blouse.

Printing and Assembling Instructions

Check out my detailed posts on how to print, cut-out, and assemble PDF patterns.

How to print and assemble free PDF patterns

How to cut out sewing patterns with tips and tools

Seam Allowance

For this project, I recommend adding 1 cm | 0.4 in of seam allowance to all the edges of the pattern pieces. This will give you enough room to stitch the seams without compromising the fit.

You can use a ruler or a tape measure to mark the seam allowance on your fabric. Alternatively, you can use a special sewing tool called a seam gauge, which has markings for different seam allowances.

Learn more:

How to add seam allowance in sewing

Step-by-Step Sewing Tutorial: Make Your Trendy Open Front Blouse

In this step-by-step guide, you’ll transform fabric into a stunning bow-tie blouse, complete with long sleeves and perfect finishes. From cutting the pattern to stitching the final bow-tie detail, this guide is designed to make the process fun and easy.

Cutting the Pattern

The first step in creating your blouse is cutting out the pattern pieces. Using a pre-made or free blouse pattern ensures accuracy and saves time.

How to Cut Your Pattern:

1. Prepare the Fabric: Spread the fabric on a flat, smooth surface. Ensure it’s wrinkle-free for accurate cutting.
2. Position the Pattern: Place your pattern pieces on the fabric. Pin them securely to avoid shifting.
3. Trace and Cut: Use fabric chalk or a marker to trace around the pattern pieces, then cut carefully along the lines.

Pieces to Cut:

• Front: 2 pieces
• Back: 1 piece on fold
• Neckline Facing: 1 piece
• Front Facing: 1 piece
• Strap Ties: 4 pieces
• Sleeves: 2 pieces

How to draft front and neckline facing 

How to Draft Front and Neckline Facing

To draft the front facing and neckline facing, measure and trace the shape of your blouse’s front and neckline. Ensure they align perfectly with your main fabric pieces for a polished finish.

Sewing Bust Darts

1. Fold the fabric where the dart markings are.
2. Pin the folds to hold them securely.
3. Sew along the dart lines.
4. Iron the darts toward the center for a smooth look.

Sewing Shoulder and Side Seams

1. With the right sides of the fabric together, pin the shoulders and side seams.
2. Sew along the pinned areas to connect the pieces.

Attaching the Sleeves

1. Match the sleeve piece to the armhole, aligning the front to the front and back to the back.
2. Pin the sleeves in place on both sides.
3. Sew along the armhole curve.

Sewing the Side Seams

1. Place the blouse and sleeve pieces right sides together.
2. Start pinning from the armpit, working up and down the sides.
3. Sew both sides securely.
4. Turn the blouse right side out for the next steps.

Sewing the Strap Ties

1. Cut 4 straps: each 40 cm (15.7 inches) long and 4 cm (1.57 inches) wide.
2. Fold each strap in half with the right sides together, pin, and sew along the edge.
3. Turn the straps right side out for a clean finish.

Attaching the Facings

With the right sides together, pin the neckline facing and front facing to the blouse.

Pin the straps 1 cm (0.39 inches) from the neckline, ensuring both ties are placed symmetrically.

Sew the facing around the neckline and the front edges of the blouse.

Lightly clip the curves for smooth turning.

Turn the facings right side out and press them for a neat appearance.

Hemming the Blouse

Fold the hem 1 cm to the wrong side, then fold again by 2 cm to the right side.

Pin the hem in place along the edges and sew.

For the sleeve hems, fold the edges twice, pin, and sew to finish neatly.

Final Steps

Once your blouse is hemmed, give it a final press for a professional look. Your open front blouse with bow-tie details is now ready to wear! Pair it with your favorite outfits for a stylish addition to your wardrobe.

Watch the Video Tutorial on Sewing Open Front Blouse

If you want a visual guide on how to make an open front top with long sleeves, swing by my YouTube channel. I’ll take you through each step of sewing this cute blouse and share some handy tips to help you nail it!

You can watch the video here.

Make sure to give a thumbs up, leave a comment, and hit that subscribe button on my channel to get more sewing tutorials. Don’t forget to share your results with me on Instagram or Facebook. I’m really excited to see what you come up with!

How to Style an Open Front Blouse: Tips for a Chic Look

An open front blouse is a versatile wardrobe staple that can elevate your outfits effortlessly. Whether you’re dressing up for a night out or keeping it casual, here are some creative ways to style your long sleeve open front top to match any occasion.

 Layer It Over a Fitted Top

Pair your open front blouse with a fitted tank top, crop top, or bralette for a chic layered look. This works especially well with favorite outfits like high-waisted jeans or skirts, balancing the flowy vibe of the blouse with a structured base layer.

Keep It Casual

Leave your open front blouse untied over a basic tee and pair it with denim shorts or ripped jeans. This relaxed look is ideal for weekend errands or brunch with friends.

Dress It Up with Accessories

For a formal touch, style your long sleeve open front top with tailored trousers or a pencil skirt. Add statement earrings, a sleek belt, and heels to create a sophisticated ensemble suitable for office wear or evening events.

Play with Contrasting Colors

Experiment with the blouse’s color and pattern by pairing it with contrasting shades or complementary prints. A solid-colored open front blouse works well with patterned pants, while printed blouses can be toned down with neutral bottoms.

Go Monochromatic

For a sleek and modern outfit, match the color of your open front blouse with your bottoms or dress. Monochromatic looks are not only stylish but also give the illusion of added height.

Layer for Cooler Weather

Wear your long sleeve open front top over a turtleneck or long-sleeved fitted top in colder months. Add boots and a coat for a cozy yet fashionable outfit.

With these styling tips, your open front blouse will become one of the most versatile and chic pieces in your wardrobe. Experiment with different combinations to find the look that suits your mood and occasion!

Congratulations, You Did It! 🎉

And there you have it – your very own long sleeve open front top with a bow! Doesn’t it feel amazing to transform a simple piece of fabric into something fashionable and handmade? This project was all about mastering the basics: stitching the shoulder seam, finishing side seams, and perfecting the edges of the sleeve lengths. Now you can proudly show off your gorgeous open front blouse to the world!

I hope this step-by-step tutorial inspires you to keep sewing and exploring new patterns. If you loved this project, make sure to share your creations and tag me on social media – I’d love to see how you styled your top!

Stay tuned for more fun and beginner-friendly sewing tutorials, and don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for updates on blouse patterns and other sewing goodies. Until next time, happy sewing! 🧵

In this post, you have learned how to sew open front blouse.

Free Front Tie Top Sewing Pattern