Women's Side Tie Top---Sewing Tutorial + Free Sewing Pattern (for Bust Sizes 30 to 44)

  

Here's another free PDF sewing pattern for women. This is a pattern for side tie top for women's bust sizes 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, and 44 (that is, sizes XS to XXL).

This sleeveless top features stylish side tie strings that can be fastened for an effortlessly cute and flattering look. 

Layer it over a long top, shirt, or dress like a vest to instantly elevate your look with a chic, versatile touch.    

Click the link below to browse all the free PDF sewing patterns for women:

Free PDF Sewing Patterns for Women

Click the link below to browse all the free PDF sewing patterns for kids:

Free PDF Sewing Patterns for Kids

Click the link below to see the complete list of Free PDF Sewing Patterns for 18-Inch Dolls:

18-Inch Doll Clothes Free PDF Sewing Patterns

 

This is the measurement chart I used to create this pattern. Please select your pattern size according to your bust size. 

Seam allowances:

Seam allowances are included in the pattern.

Top's bodice part:

1/2 inch for the neck line and armhole

1/2 inch for the sides

3/4 inch at the hemline

Note: This pattern includes approximately 3 inches of ease around the bust line. However, if you have a fuller bust, consider adding ¾ inch or more to each side seam of both the front and back pieces or you may consider doing a full bust adjustment. Additionally, you can lower the armhole by about an inch—or adjust it further based on your preference.

Download link:

Click here to download the free side tie top PDF sewing pattern.

How to Print and Assemble the PDF Pattern Pages:

Click here to learn how to print and assemble the PDF pattern pages. 

You can use the following diagram as a guide to assemble the pattern:

Supplies Needed:

1. Fabric

2. Measuring tape

3. Matching thread

4. Sewing machine

5. Scissors

6. Sewing pins

7. Fabric marker or pencil

8. Serger (optional)

Bias Tape Length Estimates (XS–XXL)

Here’s a practical guide:

Note: By 2.5 yards (2.3 m), I mean the total length of bias tape you’ll need to cut for finishing the neckline, both armholes, and the side seams with ties. Think of it as the sum of all those edges plus extra allowance for the ties themselves.

So for each size (XS–XXL), the measurement I gave is the overall continuous length you’ll want to prepare. You can cut it into separate strips for neckline, armholes, and side seams, or make longer strips and divide them as you sew. It’s always wise to cut a little extra so you don’t run short when turning corners or finishing ends.

How this is calculated:

• Neckline: ~24–28″ depending on size.
• Armholes (2): ~18–22″ each.
• Side seams (2): ~20–24″ each, plus extra for ties.
• Add ~10–12″ per tie if you want longer bows.

It’s always best to cut bias tape a little longer than estimated—you can trim excess later.

How to Sew? 

1. Cutting the Bias Tape

• Cut strips of fabric on the bias (at 45° angle to the grain).
• Join strips with diagonal seams to create the total length needed (see size chart). You can also use the readily available bias tape if it's easier for you (refer to the size chart for the length you need).
• Press seams open, then fold tape in half lengthwise and press.

2. Preparing the Ties

• Cut two extra lengths of bias tape (10–12″ each, or longer if you prefer bows).
• Fold and stitch closed to make neat ties.
• Set aside for attaching at the side seams.

3. Joining the shoulders

• With right sides facing join the front and back bodice pieces at the shoulders.

4. Finishing the Neckline

• Pin bias tape to neckline edge, right sides together.
• Stitch, then fold tape to inside and topstitch for a clean finish.

5. Finishing the Armholes

• Repeat the same process for each armhole with shorter bias strips.

6. Finishing the hemline 

7. Attaching Bias Tape to Side Seams

• Pin long bias strips along each side seam.
• Sandwich the ties inside each strip at the waistline before stitching.
• Sew bias tape in place, enclosing raw edges and securing the ties. Fold the bias tape to the wrong side and sew. 

8. Final Press

• Press all edges flat.
• Try on the top, adjust tie length if needed, and trim excess.

Done!

If you want a pattern for a side tie top with ruffle hem, click the link below:

Women's side tie ruffle hem top

Please check the link below to get some idea on how to attach the bias strips to the sides of the top, as well as the fabric ties. 

Baby dress sewing tutorial

You can completely hide the bias tape under, or you can use a contrast fabric as shown in the baby dress sewing tutorial.

You can attach the fabric ties in different ways you prefer. You can sandwich the fabric ties under the bias tape, and then fold down the bias tape; attach them after you have folded down and sewn the bias tape; or attach them on the outside over the bias tape. The design choice is up to you!

I will soon post a step-by-step picture tutorial. 

Click on the link Free Sewing Patterns Page at the top of this blog page (under the blog title) to find more free sewing patterns.

Click the links below to browse through all the pattern drafting and sewing tutorials on my blog.

pattern drafting tutorials 

sewing tutorials 

Happy sewing!

---Flora