How to Sew a Tie Side Top Step by Step for Beginners

In this post, you will learn how to sew a tie side top step by step using your own pattern.

If you’ve been following my summer sewing series, you already know we’ve made a beautiful side tie wrap skirt—and now it’s time to create the perfect match: the tie side top! This is one of my favorite outfits for warm weather because it’s breezy, stylish, and surprisingly simple to sew. Whether this is your first project or you’re looking to grow your sewing skills, this easy DIY tutorial is a great way to practice stitching a straight line, sewing shoulder seams, finishing raw edges, and understanding seam allowance.

In a previous post, I walked you through how to draft the pattern for this top from scratch (you’ll find the step-by-step guide there). Today, I’ll use that pattern to show you how to sew this comfy, wrap-style top with side tie details. I also included a video tutorial for visual guidance—especially helpful for confident beginners or anyone who learns better by watching.

Grab your sewing machine, enough fabric, and let’s make something beautiful together. You don’t need expensive fabric—just pick something breathable and soft. This is one of those sewing projects that looks impressive but is actually very beginner-friendly. Let’s dive in!

Fabric & How Much You’ll Need

One of the best things about sewing this tie side top? It doesn’t take much fabric at all! It’s a low-waste, fabric-friendly project that works great with leftover scraps, small pieces you’ve been saving, or upcycled bedsheets (just like the one I used!).

Fabric Suggestions:

Choose a soft, breathable fabric that feels comfy against your skin. Here are some beginner-friendly options:

• Lightweight cotton or cotton blends
• Soft linen
• Rayon challis or viscose for beautiful drape
• Upcycled bedsheets (so fun + sustainable!)
• Double gauze, crinkled cotton, or soft poplin

Tip: Always pre-wash your fabric — especially if you’re using a new bedsheet — to avoid any surprises with shrinkage later on.

How Much Fabric Do You Need?

Whether you’re sewing your first top or adding another handmade piece to your wardrobe, here’s how much fabric you’ll need based on your size. This chart assumes fabric width of 150 cm (60″).

Extras You’ll Need:

In addition to your main fabric, don’t forget a few small extras:

• Strap Ties: 6 pieces, about 2.5 × 35–45 cm each
• Neckline Facing: front and back curved pieces — you can cut these from leftover fabric corners
• Bias Tape for Armholes:
  • Width: 4 cm
  • Length: armhole circumference + 2 cm (×2)

Bonus Tip: Bedsheet-Friendly!

A standard twin flat sheet (around 160 × 250 cm / 63 × 98 inches) is more than enough for any size — including all ties, bias tape, and facings. You might even have enough leftover to sew a scrunchie or matching pouch. It’s a great upcycle idea and soft on the budget, too!

Want the Best Fit Ever? Draft It Yourself!

The secret to a perfect fit? Drafting your own pattern! In my previous post, I showed you exactly how to create a custom pattern for this Tie Side Top—step by step and beginner-friendly. If you haven’t tried it yet, it’s a great way to learn the basics of pattern making and make clothes that truly fit your body. Trust me, once you start drafting, you’ll never look at store-bought patterns the same way again!

Not into Drafting? I’ve Got You Covered!

I totally get it—not everyone wants to draft their own pattern, especially if it’s your first sewing project or you’re just in the mood to sew and not measure! That’s why I’ve created a basic downloadable pattern you can use as your starting point. You can simply hack it into this tie side top, and I’ll show you exactly how to do that step-by-step in the video tutorial. It’s a great shortcut while still keeping things fun, creative, and beginner-friendly!

Size chart

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

sewing pattern that’s completely free for my subscribers! It’s at the end of the post.

Basic Top Pattern for Hacking

Assembling Instructions

In the diagram below, I show you how to assemble the basic top pattern before turning it into a tie-side version. This step is important because it gives you a clean base to work from. Once the top is assembled, you’ll be ready to modify it by adding the side openings, ties, and inner closure for that beautiful adjustable wrap style!

Seam Allowance

I suggest including an additional 1 cm | 0.4 in of seam allowance to the pattern pieces for this project. This extra allowance will provide ample space for sewing the seams without affecting the overall fit.

You may utilize a ruler or tape measure to indicate the seam allowance on the fabric. Another option is to use a seam gauge tool, specifically designed for measuring different seam allowances. Incorporating seam allowance is a crucial yet straightforward process in sewing. It guarantees that your garment will be the correct size and shape.

Materials & Tools You’ll Need

Materials	Why You Need It
Woven fabric (light to medium weight)	The main fabric for your top — choose cotton, linen, seersucker, or double gauze for a breathable, easy-to-sew finish.
Bias tape – about 1 meter (1 yard) or make your own	Used to finish the armholes neatly and add flexibility around curves.
Matching thread	For all your sewing — helps your seams look clean and professional.
Hook and loop tape / snap / small button	Optional but recommended: adds a secure inner closure to keep the wrap top in place.
Lightweight interfacing (optional)	To add structure to the neckline and front opening if your fabric is very soft.

Tools	Why You Need It
Sewing machine	For assembling the top, attaching straps, hemming, and topstitching.
Fabric Scissors or rotary Cutter	To cut your fabric pieces cleanly and accurately.
Pins or clips	To hold pieces and bias tape in place before sewing.
Iron + ironing board	Essential for pressing seams, hems, and bias tape — gives your top that crisp, professional look.
Seam ripper	For unpicking small sections of the side seam to insert ties. 👉 Why Seam Rippers Are a Sewist’s Best Friend
Measuring tape	To check fabric dimensions, strap lengths, and your own body measurements for a great fit.

Cutting Your Fabric According to the Pattern

Once your pattern is ready (whether drafted or downloaded), it’s time to cut your fabric! Lay your fabric flat, right side facing up, and follow this cutting list for a perfect fit and clean finish:

Fabric Cutting List:

• Front Bodice – cut 2 mirrored pieces
  (These form the left and right wrap front.)
• Back Bodice – cut 1 on the fold
  (Place the back piece on the fabric fold for a symmetrical back.)
• Neckline Facing (Front) – cut 2
  (These help finish the inner edge of your front neckline.)
• Neckline Facing (Back) – cut 1 on the fold
  (Neatly finishes the back neckline.)
• Front Ties – cut 6 or more, each measuring:
  2.5 cm × 45–50 cm (1″ × 17.5–19.5″)
  (You can add more ties for extra wrap details—it’s up to your style!)
• Armhole Bias Tape – cut 2 strips, each measuring:
  Width: 4 cm (1.57″)
  Length: Measure your armhole + 2 cm (0.8″) seam allowance

Tip: Cut these on the bias (diagonally across the fabric) for a flexible, curve-friendly finish.

Tie Side Top Sewing Step by Step

Step 1: Sew the Bust Darts

Shape your top for a flattering fit

Bust darts are essential for giving your tank top a natural, body-hugging shape—especially if you have curves. Don’t worry if you’re new to darts—this step is much easier than it seems, and I’ll guide you through it.

💡 What Are Bust Darts?

Bust darts are small triangular folds sewn into the fabric to shape it around the bust area. They remove excess fabric from the chest and allow the garment to contour smoothly over the bust without pulling or gaping.

How to Sew Bust Darts – Step by Step

Fold the Dart

• Take one front bodice piece and fold it right sides together along the dart line (the two dart legs should meet).
• The dart tip (the point toward the bust) should remain as a sharp triangle.
• Pin along the dart line to keep the fabric in place.
  Tip: Use a ruler and fabric pen or chalk to extend the dart legs if needed, so they’re clear and accurate.

Pin Securely

• Insert your pins perpendicular to the dart seam (so you can easily remove them while sewing).
• Make sure the raw edges of the dart legs are even.
• For precision, use 2–3 pins from the wide end toward the dart tip.

Sew the Dart

• Start sewing at the widest part of the dart (toward the side seam).
• Stitch along the drawn dart line, tapering gradually toward the tip.
• At the dart tip, don’t backstitch—instead, leave long thread tails and tie a small knot by hand to avoid puckering.
  Pro Tip: A smooth taper and hand-tied knot at the tip will give you a professional, wrinkle-free finish.

Press the Dart

• Use your iron and a pressing cloth to press the dart downward or toward the waistline.
• If your fabric is thick or structured, you can press the dart open to reduce bulk.
• Use the tip of the iron to gently shape the dart curve around the bust area.
• Always press darts on both sides of the fabric—first on the wrong side, then lightly from the right side for a clean look.

Recap: Sewing Perfect Darts

Step	Action
1	Fold fabric right sides together along dart lines
2	Pin securely with dart legs matched up
3	Sew from wide end to tip, tie thread ends instead of backstitching
4	Press dart downward toward waist for smooth shaping

Once your darts are sewn and pressed, your front bodice pieces will start to take on a 3D shape that curves beautifully over your bust. This simple tailoring detail makes all the difference in fit and comfort!

Step 2: Join Shoulder and Side Seams

Assembling the Front and Back of Your Tank Top

Now that your bust darts are beautifully sewn and pressed, it’s time to join the front and back bodice pieces together. This step brings your tank top to life, creating the full shape of the body. You’ll start to see it take form — so exciting!

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Attach the shoulder seams (top of the bodice)
• Sew the side seams (from underarm to hem)
• Leave one small section unstitched for the inside tie (important for the wrap effect)

Align the Bodice Pieces

• Lay your back bodice flat, right side up.
• Place the two front bodice pieces on top, right sides together, aligning the shoulders and side seams.

💡Tip: Use sewing clips or pins to keep everything in place. Clip perpendicular to the edge so they’re easy to remove while sewing.

Sew the Shoulder Seams

• Sew the shoulder seams with a 1 cm (3/8″) seam allowance.
• Backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the seams.
• After stitching, press the seams open or toward the back bodice—whichever feels flatter.

Pro Tip: Pressing them open helps reduce bulk when you later add the neckline facings.

Sew the Side Seams

• Pin and sew the side seams from under the armhole to the hem.
• Important: On one side only, leave a small gap (about 2–3 cm) at the waist or bust level. This is where the inside tie will go.
• You’ll insert the tie strap through this opening later in Step 8 to secure the wrap effect.

Press the Seams

• Once stitched, press all seams open or toward the back for a smooth, professional finish.

Ironing Tip: Use a pressing ham or a rolled towel to help shape curved seams like the bust area neatly.

Quick Summary

Task	What to Do
Join shoulders	Right sides together, 1 cm seam allowance
Sew side seams	Leave a small gap for inner tie on one side only
Press	Open or toward the back for smooth shaping

Once this step is done, your tank top has taken shape! Next, you’ll add the neckline facings and ties—those pretty finishing touches that make it a wrap-style favorite.

Step 3: Attach the Neckline Facing

Clean and Professional Finish for the Front and Back Neckline

Now that your main bodice pieces are joined, it’s time to add the neckline facings. This step gives your tank top a smooth, clean-finished edge around the neckline, hides raw seams, and adds structure so the fabric won’t stretch out or curl.

Sewing facings is a skill worth mastering. Let’s break it down!

What Are Neckline Facings?

Facings are small pieces of fabric that mirror the shape of your neckline and are sewn onto the inside of the garment to finish the edge neatly. They help:

• Stabilize the neckline
• Hide seam allowances
• Create a professional, clean inside finish

What You Need to Attach:

• Neckline Facing Front (2 pieces)
• Neckline Facing Back (1 on fold)
• Front + back bodice (already joined at shoulders and sides)

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Prepare the Neckline Facings
• Place the front neckline facings right sides together with the back neckline facing at the shoulders.
• Sew the shoulder seams of the facings with a 1 cm (3/8″) seam allowance.
• Press the seams open to reduce bulk.

Tip: You’re basically creating a mini version of your neckline in facing form. Match the curves carefully.

Quick Summary

Step	What You Do
Join Facings	Sew front and back neckline facings together at shoulders (right sides facing).
Press Seams	Press the facing shoulder seams open to reduce bulk.
Prepare for Attachment	You now have a mini facing matching your neckline, ready to attach to bodice.

Step 4: Sew the Front Ties

Create the Adjustable Straps that Make Your Top Unique

The front ties are what give your tank top its stylish side-wrap design. They’re simple to sew but add a beautiful, adjustable detail that lets you customize your fit and look.

What You’ll Need:

Front tie strips (cut 6 or more, 2.5 cm × 45–50 cm / 1″ × 17.5–19.5″)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Fold the Tie Strips

• Take each tie strip and fold it in half lengthwise, with right sides together.
• Align the long raw edges.

Tip: For neat corners, make sure the ends are even before sewing.

Pin the Straps

• Pin along the long edge and one short edge (the closed end of the tie).
• Leave the other short edge open for turning.

Sew the Straps

• Using a ¼ inch (0.6 cm) seam allowance, sew along the pinned long edge and one short edge.
• Backstitch at the start and end for security.

Clip Corners and Turn

• Carefully clip the corner at the sewn short end diagonally, to reduce bulk when turning.
• Turn the strap right side out through the open short end.
• Use a chopstick, pencil, or a special turning tool to push out the corners neatly.

Press the Ties

• Press the straps flat with an iron.
• Fold the open edge inward about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) and press.
• If you like, topstitch close to the edge all around the tie for a polished finish and extra durability.

Quick Summary

Step	What You Do
Fold & Pin	Fold tie strips in half (right sides together), pin along long edge + 1 short end.
Sew & Clip	Sew with ¼″ seam allowance. Clip corners to reduce bulk.
Turn & Press	Turn right side out, press flat, fold in open edge.
Optional Finish	Topstitch all around for durability and polished look.

Step 5: Attach the Ties & Finish the Neckline

Neat, Secure & Stylish Final Assembly

Here’s exactly how I did it when sewing my top — feel free to follow my method if it suits your style! This step brings it all together: the neckline gets enclosed, the strap ties are added, and the hem is finished.

Sew the Neckline Facing First (Without the Ties)

After joining the shoulder and side seams, I started by attaching the neckline facing to the front neckline, right sides together, without the strap ties yet.
This gave me more control and helped me position the facing neatly.

Add the Strap Ties Between the Facing and Bodice

Once the neckline curve was sewn, I opened it up and slipped the strap ties between the neckline facing and the bodice.
You can add ties to both sides of the front if you’d like your top to tie on either side. I added ties on just one side for a clean wrap.

Here’s how I positioned them:

• First tie: 1 cm (⅜″) from the neckline edge
• Second tie: 8 cm (3¼″) below the first
• Third tie: 8 cm (3¼″) below the second

💡 Feel free to add more or fewer straps depending on your style and bust coverage preferences.

Fold & Press the Raw Front Opening Edges

Before sewing the facing down fully, I folded and pressed the small raw edge of the front opening under twice where the front facing meets the bodice.
This hides the raw edge under the facing for a clean, professional finish.

Note: At this stage, I only finished the center opening edge — not the full hem yet.

Sew the Facing, Clip & Press

Then I sewed around the entire neckline and front facing, enclosing the ties and the folded front edge inside the facing.

Next, I:

• Clipped into the curves

• Trimmed excess seam allowance, especially around the ties

• Turned the neckline right side out
• After turning, I gave the neckline and front edge a good press, making sure everything lay smooth and flat.
• Finally, I folded the hemline under twice, pinned it, and stitched all the way around to finish the bottom hem.

Quick Summary

Task	Notes
Attach neckline facing	Right sides together, no ties yet
Insert front ties	Place ties between facing and bodice at even intervals
Finish raw front edge	Fold & press raw center opening edge under
Sew all layers	Stitch neckline and front edge, enclosing ties and raw edge
Clip, trim, turn	Shape curves, reduce bulk, turn right side out
Press + hem	Press neckline, fold hem under twice, and topstitch

Step 6: Hem the Bottom Edge of the Top

Finish Your Tank with a Clean, Professional Look

Let’s hem the bottom edge of your top to give it a neat, polished finish that holds up through washing and wearing.

Prepare the Hem

• Fold the raw hemline up by 1 cm (⅜″) toward the inside of the top.
• Press this fold flat.
• Fold it up again by 1 cm (⅜″) to fully enclose the raw edge.
• Press the double fold firmly and pin or clip it all the way around the hem.

Tip: If the hem curves slightly near the side seams, gently ease the fabric into place and steam press before pinning for a smoother result.

Stitch the Hem

• Topstitch close to the inner folded edge using a straight stitch.
• Keep your stitches even and clean as you sew around the entire hem.
• Backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the stitching.

Optional: Topstitch the Neckline & Front Opening

• For extra stability and a polished finish, add a final topstitch around the neckline and front opening.
• This helps the facing stay flat and gives a crisp, finished edge.

Tip: You can use a twin needle for a double-line finish, or add a decorative stitch for a unique touch.

Quick Summary

Step	What You Do
Fold & Press	Fold raw hem 1 cm (⅜″) inside, press. Fold again 1 cm to enclose raw edge, press.
Pin or Clip	Secure double fold all around hem; ease fabric gently on curves if needed.
Stitch Hem	Topstitch close to inner fold with straight stitch, backstitch at start & end.
Optional Finish	Add final topstitch around neckline & front opening for stability and polish.

Step 7: Attach the Side Ties and Add the Inner Closure

Adjustable Fit + Clean, Secure Inside Finish

One of the signature features of this side-tie tank top is the adjustable side ties. Here’s how I created the bow-tie look and added a hidden inner closure to keep it secure and comfy.

Unpick the Side Seams

• Carefully unpick a small section of the side seams, starting from the underarm area.
• I made three small openings — just enough to insert and sew the straps through later.

Insert the Straps

• Thread the straps (ties) through the unpicked sections of the side seams.
• Make sure they come out cleanly through the openings.
• Double-check that the ties are even on both sides before securing.

Pin and Sew the Straps

• Pin each strap carefully in place to make sure it stays exactly where you want it.
• Then sew the straps securely into the side seams.
• This will hold them in place for easy, adjustable bow-tying on the outside.

Add the Inner Closure

• For extra security and comfort, I added a small, discreet closure on the inside near one side seam.
• This helps keep the wrap top securely fastened underneath the outer bow.
• I used a small hook-and-loop fastening, but you could also use a button or snap.

Tip: This inner closure is great for helping your top stay closed while wearing and makes the outer bow-tie purely aesthetic!

Now your tank top has both style and function — adjustable outer ties and a smart inner fastening for comfort and confidence.

Quick Summary

Step	What You Do
Unpick Side Seams	Carefully open 3 small sections at underarm for straps insertion.
Insert Straps	Thread straps through openings; ensure even length on both sides.
Pin & Sew Straps	Pin straps in place, then securely sew into side seams.
Add Inner Closure	Attach a small hidden closure (hook & loop, button, or snap) inside.

Step 8: Finish the Armholes with Bias Tape

Clean, Comfy Edges for a Professional Look

Finishing the armholes with bias binding is perfect for sleeveless tops—it adds flexibility, comfort, and a beautiful polished edge.

What You’ll Need:

• Two strips of bias tape, each:
  • Length: Armhole circumference + 2 cm (¾″)
  • Width: 4 cm (1.57″)
• You can use pre-made bias tape or cut your own from fabric scraps (cut on the bias for stretch).

Prepare the Armholes

• Lay your top flat and press the armhole edges smooth.
• With the right side facing up, open one bias tape strip.
• Align the right side of the bias tape with the raw armhole edge.
• Pin or clip all around, easing it gently around the curve.

Tip: Gently stretch the bias tape around curves, but don’t pull the fabric itself.

Sew the Bias Tape

• Stitch along the first fold of the bias tape (about 1 cm from the edge).
• Then fold the bias tape toward the inside of the armhole, enclosing the raw edge.
• Fold the inner edge under again, and pin or clip in place all around.

Finish the Binding

• Topstitch close to the inner folded edge, going slowly around curves for accuracy.
• Press the armhole flat with an iron for a crisp, clean finish.

And that’s it—your sleeveless top now has smooth, flexible armholes that look great inside and out!

Quick Summary

Step	What You Do
Prepare Armholes	Press armhole edges flat; align and pin bias tape (right side to raw edge).
Sew Bias Tape	Stitch along bias tape first fold (~1 cm from edge).
Fold & Pin Inside	Fold bias tape inside, enclosing raw edge; fold inner edge under and pin.
Topstitch & Press	Topstitch close to inner fold; press armholes flat for clean finish.

Step 9: Final Press & Try It On

Give Your Handmade Top That Professional Finish

You’re almost there! A good final press makes all the difference—your seams will lie flat, your ties will drape nicely, and the whole top will feel polished and ready to wear.

Final Press

• Press all seams: neckline, hem, side seams, and armholes.
• Gently steam the strap ties and smooth out any wrinkles.
• Make sure everything lays flat, especially around the front opening and facing.

Tip: Use a pressing cloth if you’re working with delicate fabric or don’t want any shine.

Check the Fit

• Slip on your finished tank top.
• Adjust the side ties and inner closure until it feels just right.
• Look in the mirror and admire your beautiful wrap-style creation!

Quick Summary

Step	What You Do
Final Press	Press all seams (neckline, hem, sides, armholes); steam straps.
Smooth & Flatten	Ensure everything lies flat, especially front opening and facing.
Check Fit	Try on your top; adjust side ties and inner closure for comfort.
Admire	Enjoy your polished, professional-looking handmade tank top!

🎥 Prefer to Learn by Watching? I’ve Got You!

If you’re a visual learner like me, don’t worry — I’ve got you covered! I created a step-by-step video tutorial that walks you through every part of sewing the Tie Side Top. From stitching those perfect side seams to tying the stylish side bows, you’ll see exactly how it’s done in real time.

Watching the process can make learning so much easier and boost your confidence, especially if it’s your first project.

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 Your Tie Side Top

One of the best things about this tie side top is how effortlessly it pairs with so many looks. My favorite way to style it is with the side tie wrap skirt from my earlier post—together, they make a chic, breezy summer outfit that’s perfect for anything from casual days out to sunset walks.

You can also wear the top with high-waisted jeans or shorts for a more laid-back vibe. Try layering it over a simple tank top or under a lightweight jacket for cooler evenings. Play with different fabrics and colors to match your personal style—soft linens for a relaxed look, or silky prints for something dressier.

Because of the adjustable side ties, this top lets you customize the fit and silhouette, so it works beautifully with many body types and styles. It’s a simple style with endless styling possibilities!

Ready Handmade Tie Side Top !

And there you have it—your own handmade tie side top! It’s such a simple style, but it adds so much charm to your wardrobe. I love pairing mine with the side tie wrap skirt we made earlier, but it also looks amazing with jeans, linen pants, or high-waisted shorts. With right sides stitched together neatly and raw edges finished cleanly, your finished garment will not only fit beautifully but also feel as good , if not better, as anything from the fashion industry.

Sewing your own clothes is the best way to create pieces that truly match your style—and this top is a perfect project to build confidence. Whether you’re working on improving your sewing skills, experimenting with different fabrics, or adding to your favorite pinterest board, this tie side top is a good idea you’ll want to make again and again.

If you enjoyed this DIY tutorial, make sure to check out the rest of my summer sewing series. And don’t forget to tag me if you share your top online—I love seeing your creations! 💕

Happy sewing and see you in the next project!

In this post, you have learned how to sew a tie side top step by step using your drafted pattern and basic sewing techniques.

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