Aria Sew Along | Sew Side Seams and Hem

SEW THE SIDE SEAMS

With the right sides together, sew the front and back bodice side seams, matching the side seam notch. Finish the seams and press to the back.

SEW A FOLD GUIDE ON THE SLEEVE AND BODICE HEM

Sew a fold guide on the cut edge of the sleeve and bodice hem, just under 3/8″ (1 cm). Press the outer edge in 3/8″ (1 cm), wrong sides together.

HEM THE SLEEVES AND BODICE

You have two hem options for the bodice and sleeve hems.

To finish with a narrow hem, fold the hems up again at 3/8″ (1 cm). Edgestitch the hems and leave a 2″ (5 cm) opening to insert the elastic.

To finish with a ruffle hem, fold the hems up again at 1 3/8″ (3.5 cm).

Edgestitch the hems and leave a 2″ (5 cm) opening to insert the elastic. Create a casing by sewing a second row 3/8″ away from your edgestitch.

INSERT 1/4″ (0.6 CM) ELASTIC

Use the cut chart from your pattern to cut your sleeve and hem elastic lengths. Add safety pins to both ends. Thread the elastic through the casings, being careful not to twist it. Overlap the edge by 3/8″ (1 cm) on either side and pin in place. Try on your Aria Top to make sure the elastic is comfortable and creates the desired bubble effect.