If you’re looking for a simple, breezy sewing project that works beautifully for everyday wear, this Girls’ Boxy Top Free PDF Sewing Pattern (Sizes 1–12 Years) is a wonderful choice. Designed with a relaxed silhouette and clean lines, this top is perfect for beginners and a joy for experienced sewists who love quick, satisfying makes.
The boxy shape gives it a modern, effortless look while keeping little ones comfortable and free to move — ideal for playtime, school days, and warm summer outings. Whether you sew it in soft cottons, crisp linens, or playful prints, this top becomes a versatile wardrobe staple for any child.
Materials Required
To make this boxy top, you'll need the following materials:
- Sewing pattern -- Link is given below.
Lightweight woven fabric
Matching thread
Bias tape (for finishing neckline and armholes)
Sewing machine
Scissors or rotary cutter
Pins or clips
Iron and ironing board
Suitable Fabrics
This top works beautifully with a variety of fabrics:
Cotton poplin for crisp, everyday wear
Linen for a breezy, natural look
Double gauze for softness and comfort
Lightweight chambray for a classic finish
Soft prints for playful, child‑friendly styles
Because the silhouette is simple, it’s a great pattern for showcasing special prints or using up smaller cuts of fabric.
Fabric Requirements
| Size | Fabric Needed (inches) | Fabric Needed (yards) |
|---|---|---|
| 1Y | 24" | ⅔ yard |
| 2Y | 24" | ⅔ yard |
| 3Y | 26" | ¾ yard |
| 4Y | 26" | ¾ yard |
| 5Y | 28" | ¾ yard |
| 6Y | 28" | ¾ yard |
| 7Y | 32" | ⅞ yard |
| 8Y | 32" | ⅞ yard |
| 9Y | 34" | 1 yard |
| 10Y | 36" | 1 yard |
| 11Y | 38" | 1⅛ yards |
| 12Y | 40" | 1⅛–1¼ yards |
Bias Tape
These amounts assume standard double‑fold bias tape (½" wide).
Size Bias Tape Needed (inches) 1Y 36" 2Y 36" 3Y 45" 4Y 45" 5Y 54" 6Y 54" 7Y 54" 8Y 63" 9Y 63" 10Y 72" 11Y 72" 12Y 72"
*You can also make your own bias tape using the same fabric you’re sewing the dress with. You may need some extra fabric to make your own bias tape. Please refer to the chart below.
| Size | Top Fabric Needed | Extra Fabric for Bias Tape | Total Fabric Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1Y | 24" | 10" | 34" |
| 2Y | 24" | 10" | 34" |
| 3Y | 26" | 12" | 38" |
| 4Y | 26" | 12" | 38" |
| 5Y | 28" | 14" | 42" |
| 6Y | 28" | 14" | 42" |
| 7Y | 32" | 14" | 46" |
| 8Y | 32" | 16" | 48" |
| 9Y | 34" | 16" | 50" |
| 10Y | 36" | 18" | 54" |
| 11Y | 38" | 18" | 56" |
| 12Y | 40" | 18" | 58" |
Click the link below to browse all the free PDF sewing patterns for women:
Step-by-Step Sewing Tutorial
Let’s get started with this adorable sundress sewing project!
1. Download Your Pattern
Start by downloading the free PDF sewing pattern for the pillowcase dress. Simply print it on A4 or Letter-sized paper, assemble the pages, and you’ll be ready to start sewing!
How to Print and Assemble the PDF Pattern Pages:
Pattern Assembly:
The diagram below is given as a guide to assemble the pattern pages. There are 6 pages in the pattern PDF. And these pages are arranged as shown in the diagram.
*A 1" × 1" test square are included on Page 1. Print this page first and measure the test square to ensure your printer settings are correct before printing the remaining pages.
Download Link:
👉 Girls' Drop Shoulder Boxy Top--Free PDF Sewing Pattern for Sizes 1 Year through 12 Years
2. Cut Your Fabric
Fold your fabric and place both the front and back pieces on the fold. Cut one of each.
3. Sew the Shoulder Seams
Place the front and back pieces right sides together and sew the shoulder seams. Press them open for a neat finish.
4. Sew the Side Seams
With right sides together, sew the side seams. Press them open.
5. Finish the Armholes
Finish the armholes with bias tape for strength and durability — especially helpful for active little ones.
6. Hem the Top
Fold the hem up twice and stitch to finish. Press well.
7. Sew the Back Closure
I wanted to add a stylized back closure to this top, featuring a keyhole opening and two tie‑strings that fasten at the back. Because of the higher neckline, the top cannot be slipped over the head without this keyhole, so the opening is both functional and decorative, giving the garment a sweet, vintage touch.
Keyhole Length by Size
These lengths ensure the top can be worn comfortably without forcing it over the head.
| Size | Keyhole Length |
|---|---|
| 1Y | 2.75" |
| 2Y | 3" |
| 3Y | 3.25" |
| 4Y | 3.5" |
| 5Y | 3.75" |
| 6Y | 4" |
| 7Y | 4.25" |
| 8Y | 4.5" |
| 9Y | 4.75" |
| 10Y | 5" |
| 11Y | 5.25" |
| 12Y | 5.5" |
These lengths are proportional to the neckline depth and shoulder width of each size.
Keyhole Facing Piece (Cut from Main Fabric)
The facing mirrors the keyhole shape and must be large enough to turn cleanly.
Facing Shape
A soft teardrop or oval shape.
Facing Measurements by Size
| Size | Facing Height | Facing Width |
|---|---|---|
| 1Y | 4.5" | 3" |
| 2Y | 4.75" | 3" |
| 3Y | 5" | 3.25" |
| 4Y | 5.25" | 3.25" |
| 5Y | 5.5" | 3.5" |
| 6Y | 5.75" | 3.5" |
| 7Y | 6" | 3.75" |
| 8Y | 6.25" | 3.75" |
| 9Y | 6.5" | 4" |
| 10Y | 6.75" | 4" |
| 11Y | 7" | 4.25" |
| 12Y | 7.25" | 4.25" |
Tie‑String Measurements
Two tiestrings are attached at the top of the keyhole.
Tie‑String Width (Cut Width)
1.5" (finished width ≈ ⅜" after folding)
Tie‑String Length by Size
| Size | Tie Length (each) |
|---|---|
| 1Y | 8" |
| 2Y | 8" |
| 3Y | 9" |
| 4Y | 9" |
| 5Y | 10" |
| 6Y | 10" |
| 7Y | 11" |
| 8Y | 11" |
| 9Y | 12" |
| 10Y | 12" |
| 11Y | 13" |
| 12Y | 13" |
Step 1 — Mark the Keyhole
On the back piece, mark the keyhole length using the chart above.
Draw a soft teardrop shape.
Step 2 — Prepare the Facing
Cut the facing using the size chart.
Interface lightly for stability.
Finish the outer edge (serge OR fold ¼" under).
Step 3 — Stitch the Keyhole
Place facing and back piece right sides together.
Stitch around the neckline and keyhole shape.
Pivot carefully at the keyhole tip.
Step 4 — Attach Tie‑Strings
Fold each tie‑string strip lengthwise, stitch, turn, and press.
Insert each tie‑string between the facing and main fabric at the keyhole top.
Stitch securely.
Step 5 — Clip and Turn
Clip curves and notch the tip.
Turn the facing to the inside through the keyhole.
Press well.
Step 6 — Understitch (Optional but recommended)
Understitch the facing around the neckline (stop before the keyhole).
8. Finish the Neckline
Use bias tape to finish the neckline. This gives a clean, durable edge and keeps the top comfortable for everyday wear.
Your boxy top is ready!
Are you a sewing enthusiast? Are you looking for a simple and easy sewing project to do this week?
I’ve posted lots of Free printable PDF sewing patterns on this blog. Also I have posted loads of pattern drafting tutorials and sewing tutorials on this blog. Please check out these links: Pattern drafting tutorials and Sewing tutorials.
If you enjoyed this project, don’t forget to check out my other free PDF sewing patterns:
Happy sewing!
--Flora
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