Creating a turtleneck sewing pattern from scratch can be more complex than a basic lanyard, but it's still doable with some sewing experience. Here's a simplified pattern for a turtleneck:
Materials You'll Need:
- Stretch knit fabric (Jersey or ribbed knit works well)
- Matching thread
- Sewing machine with a ballpoint/stretch needle
- Scissors
- Pins
- Measuring tape
- Chalk or fabric marker
- Turtleneck sweater or shirt for reference (optional)
Instructions:
- Take Measurements:
- Measure your neck circumference. This will determine the size of your turtleneck.
- Measure the length from your shoulder to where you want the turtleneck to end.
- Create Pattern Pieces:
- For the turtleneck, you'll need two pieces: one for the body and one for the turtleneck itself. You can create a simple rectangular pattern for the turtleneck, or you can use an existing turtleneck sweater as a reference to create the shape.
- To create the turtleneck piece, measure the width of your neck circumference, add some ease for comfort (usually 1-2 inches), and determine the desired height of the turtleneck (typically 6-8 inches). Cut a rectangle with these dimensions.
- Cut the Fabric:
- Fold your fabric in half with the right sides together.
- Using your pattern pieces, cut one front and one back piece for the body of the shirt. You can use a basic t-shirt pattern for the body, or create a simple rectangular shape for a looser fit.
- Cut one turtleneck piece based on your pattern or measurements.
- Sew the Body:
- Place the front and back body pieces right sides together.
- Sew the shoulder and side seams, leaving the armholes open. Use a stretch stitch or a narrow zigzag stitch on your sewing machine.
- Sew the Turtleneck:
- Fold the turtleneck piece in half lengthwise with right sides together.
- Sew along the short edge to create a loop.
- Attach the Turtleneck:
- Fold the turtleneck loop in half with the seam on the inside.
- Pin it to the neck opening of the body, aligning the raw edges.
- Sew the turtleneck to the body, stretching the turtleneck slightly as you sew to ensure it fits snugly.
- Hem the Sleeves and Body:
- Fold up the raw edges of the sleeves and hem and sew in place using a stretch stitch or a narrow zigzag stitch.
- Finish the Turtleneck:
- Fold the turtleneck down, and your turtleneck shirt is complete.
- Final Touches:
- Trim any loose threads and give the shirt a final press with a warm iron.
Remember to adjust the measurements and fit according to your preferences. This is a basic pattern, and you can modify it to create a looser or tighter turtleneck shirt. The key to sewing with knit fabrics is to use the right type of needle, a stretch stitch, and to stretch the fabric slightly as you sew to allow for stretch and movement.
