Sew Alongs / Marcel / All

Sewing the dress side panels to the center front and center back is pretty simple and straight forward. If you are sewing the tank, this step will go even faster. Click the link below if you’d prefer to watch the video for sewing the dress. There is a separate video below if you are sewing the tank.

SEW THE SIDE PANELS TO THE CENTER FRONT

Inside of Marcel is shown with side panels attached to center front panel

With right sides together, pin the front edge of the side panel to the center front. The center front panel has a straight edge and the side front has a slight curve. Use the notches to match the bust point and tiered seams. Sew the seam.

Outside of the Marcel Tank Top is shown in pin fabric with side panels attached to center front.

If you’re making the tank top, the steps are the same. With right sides together, pin the front edge of the side panel to the center front, matching the notches. Sew and finish the seam. Press the seam allowance towards the center front panel. Repeat for the other side.

SEW THE CENTER BACK TO THE SIDE PANELS

The Marcel center back is shown with side panels and front panel attached.

With right sides together, pin the center back to the side seam panel. Matching the double notches first, the single notches will match the tiered seams. Sew the seam.

The inside of the Mini Marcel Tank Top is shown with

If you’re making the tank top, the steps are the same. With right sides together, pin the center back to the side seam panel, matching the notches. Sew and finish the seam. Press the seam allowance towards the center back panel. Repeat for the other side.

GATHER THE CENTER FRONT & CENTER BACK PANEL

Now it’s time to gather the center front and and center back panels. Just make sure not to gather the top edge of the side panels.

Just like when gathering the tiers, change your stitch length to the longest possible length. 

Sew two parallel baste stitch lines at the top of the center front and center back panel. Make sure not to backstitch at the beginning or end of your stitch lines and leave long ends to your threads. 

– The first line is 1/4” (0.6 cm) away from the fabric edge.
– The second line is 1/2” (1.5 cm) away from the fabric edge.

Pull the bobbin threads to gather the top edge of the center front and center back.

Press the gathers in place to help when distributing the gathers – this step is very helpful so don’t skip it.

Now you are ready to attach your bodice to your dress or tank top! Click here for your next steps.