EASY way to draft a SIMPLE summer top! NON traditional method pattern making

Dear Sewing Friend, int his video I will show you my way of drafting a super simple and easy 1 hour Summer Top! This method is less confusing and works great for me, but it is NOT a traditional textbook method for patternmaking, SO it might not work for everyone! Please be aware of that, use old bedsheets before cutting into actual fabric, that's always the best way to go!
About EASE - the commercial pattern industry generally states that wearing ease is recommended to be 2 1/2″ (6.4cm) at the bust area, 1″ (2.5cm) at the waist and 3″ (7.6cm) at the hip area. (source: isntthatsew.org/ease/)
What Have I made recently? - • My April Sewing Makes ...
My favorite sewing tools:
1. Bias Tape Maker - amzn.to/3151IFh
2. Medical Tracing Paper - amzn.to/2EMafDm
3. Washable Fabric Markers - amzn.to/2ENCgKy
4. Hem Guide Clips - amzn.to/2EM5VUs
5. Sewing Rullers - amzn.to/2WF77n0
HOW TO become a MEMBER of this channel to get access to Extra Videos, library of Instruction Sheets and other perks- PLEASE READ FIRST TILL THE END. Thank you!
Membership trailer here (what are the full perks, where to find them, Apple users - please watch till the end) - • Membership trailer 2022
• PLEASE NOTE: these are not patterns for clothes and garments included in the Membership
• Instruction sheets are a step-by-step written instruction on how I drafted this or that project, so that you can follow along. Instruction Sheets are available as a back catalogue, but there are no new Instruction sheets for projects starting with July 2022.
• The templates are ONLY for the small projects, like a basket, or coaster, or towel wrap and etc.
• I have also created sewing reference sheets and practice sheets, as well as sketches that you can use and some small-scale garment parts that you can use to practice "slash and spread" techniques and dart manipulations. Instruction sheets are focused on the drafting process and less on the sewing sequence as that is shown in the video. Sewing steps can be sometimes written out, and sometimes referenced back to the original video.
• Members Extra videos go into fabric selection, extra tips and tricks, best practices and some additional ideas from me
• I try to prioritize Members comments, especially if there is a question
• I try to post EARLY ACCESS videos for Members, meaning those are videos that you can watch earlier than anyone else and without ads :)
• Every week I post Members ONLY sneak peeks
• We also have Members Only FB group for sharing project pictures and inspiration
• I am not a teacher and this is not a course or a program
Thank You for being here and see you soon!
xxx, Alisa
This description contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase something from the links displayed above I get a small commission. It does not come out of your pocket, but it does help me to support this channel. Thank YOU!
#draftingforbeginners #easysewingDIY #alisashay

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Alrighty, here's the way I draft my super simple and easy summer top. I think the main idea that I wanted to achieve with this video besides drafting, as it is a non-traditional method, is to show you that you don't have to be scared of drafting - you just have to understand the way the measurements of your body work in terms of pattern drafting. I think a lot of us perceive drafting as a sacred art, which it is and it can be complicated, but it does not mean that we can't create something easy and simple ourselves! I hope this helps and encourages you to try, to experiment!

[@sewcraftyjean3525]

Thank you so much. I am definitely going to try this. Then I want to draft a simple longline cardigan xx

[@944gemma]

Seems to me, if I follow your guidelines I could expand on it. Turn it into a dress, etc.

[@monikangwedha7659]

Very beautiful

[@marthamurray9855]

Great video and explanation of how to create a simple tee. I have not tried it yet, but I will definitely refer back to your video when I do.

[@ronniekagan8117]

Me too, from New York!

[@slaveNo-4028]

I just love this woman, I could listen to her all day.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Awww, thank you!

[@drchristinavanlalhriatreng8660]

Soooo truee 🥰🥰

[@laurapistilli8389]

Completely agree. Her simple tutorials are great. Not to remedial, but just perfect for average sewer.

[@Marialla.]

This would be such a great first project for any sewing class! I can imagine two dozen students all making the same basic shirt, but each giving it their own personal flair by fabric choices, embellishments, etc. and then all wearing their shirts to school at once. It would be so cool! Like a sewing class takeover!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

That would be indeed such a great idea! Great thinking, Marialla!

[@cindycoven1]

This is actually the best video I've seen to make a pattern. I hope you do lots more!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Thank you, Cindy for a great feedback. More to come!

[@shumisananimashau873]

This is very simple.. thank you very much.. please help with drafting a blazer jacket 🙏 can I use the same draft?

[@stargirl9861]

I just love the way you make everything about taking measurements to drafting patterns, really easy. Your videos gave me the impetus i needed to dive into making my own patterns. 💕💕💕

[@nourih9420]

This lovely lady is so talented . She tries her best to simplify the hardest part of sewing about everything n anything . Thank you , dear!

[@judithburgess1936]

I never knew how simple it was to draft a pattern. Alisa has so much enthusiasm and convinces you that you can do it too!

[@k3of5ks]

This is so good and I’m definitely going to try this. Thank you Alisa for your time and talent. You are a treasure. Happy Mother’s Day! 💐🌺🌷❤️

[@lindadechow3703]

Excellent, and I love your presentation. I have actually taken professional sewing classes and I have to say, I get so focused on doing things exactly so it's not fun, and I procrastinate. This is so darn easy, I can just pull out my material, draft my measurements and cut. Thank you, I love it. I am sharing this for my sewing friends, I think they will love it, too.

[@priscillastrickland4300]

I just started sewing a few months ago and I have been wanting to make some clothing but the patterns I bought from the stores confuse the heck out of me. This video is amazing and really helped me to make my very first shirt!!! Thank you so much! I can't wait to watch more of your videos.

[@capedoryus]

Thank you for making this video. Mistry solved. Kidding of course but at least I have a spot in sewing world were this is possible thanks to your willingness to share and educate. Thanks again. I'm still in the placemats, bags and now hat stage of sewing.

[@cfox9992]

I sewed the simple top and added a ruffle to the armholes. You make the world a little happier. I accomplished something I never thought I could. You have very good skills at sewing and teaching Thank-you!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Wonderful! So happy for your accomplishment, yay! Many more happy sewing days to you!

[@laurieschmitz3897]

Wow! That was really fun! I really love the way you just fold the tape measure in 1/2 or 1/4 to get the measurements w/o having to do the mental math and also how you use a plate or bowl to make the 1st neck and armhole curves, I’m looking forward to more of these videos😊

[@chrisstockwell1383]

So easy to follow and very upbeat attitude. First day of watching but very impressed. Will be watching many more. I am not a young person (i'm 68) but your basic t shirt pattern can be used for any age. Thank you .

[@amandaduffy2324]

Ive just made the pattern and the top! its perfect thank you so much i would never had had the confidence to do this without your fantastic demo I will be making many more!

[@ellasima]

This is life saving! Thank you soo much! I am speechless! You gave me something that I didn't even know I needed! I don't know how to thank you enough!

[@daniellesimone7769]

I learned pattern-drafting years ago in Okinawa; it was far more complicated. Your way accomplishes the same goal but is much easier, with excellent results. Thank you for simplifying pattern-making!

[@nitaholder4242]

Although I love your tutorials, I just tune in to listen to your voice. It's soothing and relaxing. I could sit and listen to you all day long!😃

[@ninagold1568]

Thank you for this pattern! I've been wanting to make some simple summer tops and have tons of rayons. Trying this tonight!

[@iloveharrold]

I love your sewing principles….you celebrate the simple and value what you make. Wonderful

[@may-marydobie8638]

Thank-you for showing us an easy way to draft a top.I will definitely try this method.Your top turned out lovely,i love the fabric you used 💕

[@WrkOtVids]

I watch LOTS of videos and I love this one especially when you talked about id regret not trying at all! ❤️

[@nadjie13]

Hi Alisa, I’m a newbie and I made a pattern and top by following this video! I love the top and I love how easy you made it! Thanks so much 💗💗💗

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

You are so welcome and great job! Proud of You!

[@carolyncoppola974]

This video is awesome! Even I can do it! Thank you SO much for explaining the measurements. Its just me so, I have no one to help. Also, I appreciate the way in which you started from scratch and where to start on the paper! From there it was understandable! Thank you so very much! God bless you!

[@reinarach]

Thank you for such a great video. I am a total beginner and your videos have been the most helpful by far! I will continue to watch as I develop my skills

[@Marialla.]

I'm sewing this first shirt now. Not surprised to find my (3X) proportions do not fit the simplified system very well, but it is still a good jumping-off place for me to begin from. Once I pinch and pin and adjust a little bit, find my favorite length etc. I will use the mock-up I'm making as my new pattern block from which to draft all the other shirts in this series! I'm learning good information about my basic shape and how to drape it, and I'm having fun.

[@patriciaoneal8222]

I was wondering how it would work for those of us who are larger. I have been reluctant to try.

[@thaisnails7337]

Hi, I wanted to say thank you for making the decision to do these videos of how to draft the slopers you have selected. I have drafted my pattern with no difficulty tonight and I'm excited to use my fabric to make my top. By the way, I love the introduction, it's cute.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Thaina, that's awesome! Great to hear! I am happy this video helped you!!!

[@CocoaMommy]

Thanks for sharing this method! I absolutely love these kind of simple tops. I love the way you have made the pattern making a simple geometric process. I am new to sewing and will definitely let you know how this attempt goes!! Cheers!

[@Muggy1170]

wow! Thanks for this video. I'm plus sized and drafting a pattern to my measurements is SO what I needed. You are great at explaining and I feel my frustration with patterns has diminished and look forward to using this method.

[@leraboisson-comissiong9439]

Thank you for a great tutorial. I am not a professional and your guide was very useful. I made my first top today using my own size and following your guidelines

[@miraklemoments973]

You are amazing, you drive this channel with so much passion. I love your voice, it's beautiful. Thank you for all that you share with us. God bless🙏🏻

[@mrgarner4796]

I am looking at some of my fabric 'stash'. Some pieces are smaller than others so I was thinking this might be just a great idea to make some quick summer tops. Because I am old, I seem to have forward sloping shoulders and the seam lines of some of my t-shirts seem to have 'moved' (LOL). I will need to make a slight alteration to the shoulder slope on my pattern. I love that you are providing these detailed measurements and drafting them to paper. It is such a welcome thing for those who don't have the money for patterns and even the ready-to-wear garments but want to have something new to wear. Also, the pride in 'I did it myself'. Beautiful job Alisa. You can do your 'Happy Dance'.

[@lauriepayseur5897]

I LOVE LOVE LOVE you’re opening statement on this video! ❤️

[@myralorraine]

Great job! You really “demystified“ drafting your own pattern block for a top! Thank you!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Myra, hello there! he he, I guess so - also, I find it that drafting an A-line top and going from there is easier then actually making a traditional slopper.

[@sassycat8067]

Thank you so much for this video!! I'm just beginning sewing (I've made a couple of face masks, one I'm pretty pleased with) and you've made it so easy to understand the basics of creating a DIY pattern 😃 I'm going to dig out an old duvet cover and have a play, might end up making some lounging pants too!

[@lindawigilius5213]

As a total beginner at sewing clothes, so far I have tried your pants tutorial and do not get the crotch right. Got frustrated after 4 tries so I went on to your kimono. So simple, turned out great! Then proceeded to this pattern and struggle a lot with your inches (work in cm) and I do have a very weired body… Made the shirt and it looked like a tent with to small armholes, fit perfect over hip and bust but waist was way to floppy. Experimented with the garment and cut of more for the arms and sew in a bit here and there and tadaaa, a perfect t-shirt 😁 Thank you so much for your easy to follow instructions!❤️ never in a million years thought I would be able to sew clothes! Found duvet covers for 4 dollars and out of that done 2 kimonos and 2 t shirts 😁 and made scrunchies from the incl pillowcase 😀

[@jennysspace3635]

This is my favourite tutorial yet from you sewing friend.Thank you for sharing.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Thanks so much 😊 I hope it helps people defeat the fear of drafting their own simple patterns! :)

[@sagithayang]

Always love your creativity in making things look so easy to make and clear instructions 😇❤️

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Sagitha, hello there! It is easy, I promise, you can draft it probably in 15 - 20 minutes and then have fun :) Thank you so much for your kind comment :)

[@michellecarver4781]

You explain so beautifully and clearly, thank you for an amazing tutorial 🤩

[@EnlightenedFlamingo]

I am new to sewing & am hoping to get to where I can create my own clothes. This seems a bit complicated to me (only because I've never sewn clothes before), but I think if I keep pausing it & go step by step slowly, I can figure it out. Thanks so much for sharing! When I get the courage to try it, I'll let you know how it goes!

[@Britgirl58]

You can slow down the video -click on the settings (gear symbol) under the time bar at the bottom of the video.

[@tina8513]

I loved the way that the A- line shape omits the need for darts.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Yep, me too, Tina! That's what makes it so easy to draft and sew, I will show how to add darts in a video a few weeks later.

[@StunningEmu]

I know this video is old but I want to thank you anways for making this video. I'm for sure going to make my pattern piece when I get home today.❤

[@thaisnails7337]

I ended up with 2 tops. The first one had some alterations that needed fixing: the front neck line was too big and the back neck line needed to be smaller. The alterations were easy to fix, and I made the alterations on the pattern and then recut a second top which came out so nice.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

That is so GREAT! Thank you so much for sharing! I hope you try other tutorials that are based on this pattern! So happy for you, have fun sewing!

[@asenatieasley1448]

I love your videos, very clear and super simple. I've learned so much, thank you

[@laheebk]

Great tutorial and you make it simple, doable and easy to understand what each step means, as always great video and fantastic instructions ❤❤❤

[@bethzaidasanabria8280]

I am an industrial pattern maker. I love your patterns.

[@izabelalukaszewicz9106]

Great video! I wish my teacher back in time simplified the technique of making patterns👍👍💖

[@angelitafrancisco5092]

I love your suggestions. Thanks a lot. You make things so simple.

[@whome4851]

You may not be conventional but you made my work soooooo much easier thank you. At the end of the day its about measurement to the proportion to the human body and you nailed it.

[@renoldanthane2978]

Thank you for teaching me how to make a top pattern its so simple I've been struggling for a long time

[@r.or.i]

I am hooked... just finished creating this pattern on drawing paper... I'm a size 22/24, so had to troubleshoot to make the pattern large enough. But I'm ready to start the fun part! Thanks so much for these helpful videos!

[@imsewblessed1578]

Such a great tutorial. You explained it so well. Happy Mother’s Day to you !!😊🥰

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Christine, thank you! Happy (belated) Mother's Day to you as well! :)

[@kripaverma222]

Your a good teacher♥ i searched top pattern a lot but didn't find it, but u helped me♡ u look so cute♡♡

[@feliceopara]

What a great way to start sewing! Thank you.

[@nanastevens4094]

Wow! I'm in. Going to give this a try tonight. Thanks for sharing this method.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Nana - that sounds like a plan! Do it with some old fabric first, in case you need to adjust the neckline and have fun! I hope this makes some beautiful tops for you!

[@annettemoolman6504]

Interesting to watch and big fun sewing this new top. Thank you so much for the inspiring video 💖🌷🌷💖

[@sewlovemydogs]

Wow you have just inspired me to get cracking on some tops for myself! 😂 Thank you for sharing this, it’s the first time I’ve clearly understood the process. You’re a very smart and talented young lady. I’ve subscribed and looking forward to your next video.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Thank you so much and you totally need to make some - so easy and perfect for summer or for layering during colder months! Besides, I am using this exact pattern to do other modifications on this channel, so you will have plenty inspiration for sewing! :)

[@billiessewingcorner7213]

Great video, Alisa! Thank you for sharing!!! 💕

[@marionbartley214]

I liked this video and yes mine will be larger than yours. But by measuring a body in any type, large, small, or petite. This pattern can work . Thank you for sharing

[@Star-dz3ei]

Love it!!! 🌺🌺🌺 can't wait to try this one. Great demonstration!

[@griseldaalarcon703]

I was looking for a video like this, is the first one I found really helpful!!! Thanks

[@reshmashriyan5042]

I made this top and it’s perfect.. I used a good fabric from Joann but it was expensive .. this was my first ever sewing and making something out of it.. I practiced by making two mask first

[@deanalovessewn6117]

Hi Alisa!! Wonderful vlog.. Thanks for showing us this, I deeply appreciate it.. Going to start working on this.... 💜💜💜🧵🧵🧵

[@salindaa5188]

Just what i was looking for. Subscribed !

[@mikybaum108]

You are fantastic I love your way's and it's sounds so easy I will definitely make that That will be my first item Thank you so much 💐💐💐💐💐

[@judyhill4655]

Thank you I always wanted someone to do this

[@sikhinihall6503]

Wonderful Job. I am going to try right now after writing this. BIG Thank you

[@florencengotho86]

Thank you. So easy to follow and clear.

[@salc348]

I love your simplicity...thank you for sharing. Just subscribed🤗

[@caroltice161]

You are so nice and helpful. I love your video today. It is really cold in Michigan so I am going to wait for warmer weather to try this. Thank you.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Carol, thank you so much! :) You know, it got really cold here in TN (Smokies) as well, which is really odd usually we walk in short right now. I hope it warms up for you pretty soon! :)

[@caroltice161]

@@ThoughtfulCreativity Next Friday it is supposed to be back to normal temperatures.

[@nicolewilson4055]

That was great. Thanks Alisa, I will be giving this a go.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Hey Nicole, I am happy it helped and was good! :) Please do give this a go and let me know how it goes!

[@alejandraahmed1177]

Thank You so much, you make it so easy. God Bless you.

[@MadeByTriniLena]

Great video Alisa, truly informative 🧵👚❤

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Thank you!!

[@mrgarner4796]

I cannot wear polyester. I want to be able to create my own tops for summer using lovely cotton and make them non clingy. As I age, my weight has redistributed to areas I do not want to emphasize. I wish I was as slim as you Alisa. I thank you for giving me inspiration and motivation to create my own comfortable and attractive garments.

[@rosydemasi2708]

I think i love you. Finally i REALLY understood how to make a basic pattern. I watched tons of videos and i' ve read a lot of books on the subject and still i failed to understand. You made my day. Sorry for my english, but i needed to thank you.

[@mollyart2656]

Aw this is adorable! I'll have to have a go at making it :)

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Molly, absolutely - I have found this to be the easiest way for me to draft a simple top. Have fun and if you make one, tag me on IG - I would love to see it! :)

[@archanaghadge1538]

best tutor ever.

[@phuongkern8027]

Very cute top! Thank you.

[@chrischristian08]

Loved this so much! Thanks! 🌺

[@travellerg.8068]

It’s beautiful

[@dorenenagy564]

You make it sound so easy.

[@Mrsxmasbaby]

Exactly what I’m trying to do but don’t know how. Thanks for the tutorial.

[@jorisvanderaa4799]

Thank you for this video! I usually like to drape my patterns on a dressform beceause I like to make evening gowns and that kind of stuf but I will defently try this methode to make some daywear for myself, thanks again!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Joris - dress form is a great way FOR SURE! I would LOVE to have a dress form that is an actual dress form, mine is just a decor element bought from Jo-Ann's, the real one can be so expensive, so I haven't gotten around to getting one - but one day :) Thank you Joris for your comment, always happy to read them! :)

[@jorisvanderaa4799]

Thoughtful Creativity - CRAFT, SEW, DIY I know right, luckily I could get mine for free, the aunt of my neighbours was a fashion designer who retired, so they gave the dressform, her fabric stash and more thread I will ever need in my intire life! From that day one I have a serious addiction and I blame everything on her😂

[@sunshinej3319]

Very clearly your explained 👏👏👍🏻

[@kendradrakes2947]

Thank you. Just made a perfect shirt using your method. Didn't understand the text book method.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Kendra!!!! Yay! So happy for you! :) Makes it all worth it reading your comment!

[@sheronwoods568]

You make it seem so easy.

[@nitiyakornsangkhurang5451]

I love this video, Thank so much ☺️

[@cindymitchell6525]

Looks great.

[@raneerattna658]

Thanks.... it is simple to follow

[@arturobueno]

Thank you!!!! This was very clear to follow!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

So glad!

[@ccpperrett7522]

Hello! Joy Bernhardt sent me to your channel. Thank you for your videos.

[@veronicafata2571]

It would be so useful if you did a basic bodice pattern with darts et brust. Yous explain so good. Thank you !

[@lian7217]

U r so resourceful!

[@KittenBowl1]

Hi, first time watching your video and I loved the way you explained! Not too fast but not overly complicated and easy to follow! I have made several tops and pants etc even dresses while back using regular patterns I bought. But I never liked them. I have larger bust than regular petite women but everywhere else I’m rather small so most patterns don’t fit me. Most retail medium size for me (I live in Asia so that’s small size in the U.S.), my bust is very tight and sometimes I have to go up a size and everywhere else is loose excess my bust. So I always wanted to custom tailor even a tank top or camisole. This is fantastic as I could follow. I’m going to try making my own pattern following your tutorial! And will get back to making a simple top! Thanks so much I love your style of explanation and your teaching style! 😊 New subscriber!

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

KittenBowl, hello there! I actually have a bit better video suggestion for you. This is dartless top, so you will have a little extra room in the bust due to a slight drop shoulder and lack of darts, but from what you wrote - I think you could really use just a basic bodice block with dart, that you can then turn into so many wonderful creations (I have video for it on the channel), but to start, take a look at this cami video, it features a dart and I show and easy way how to form it right on your body, and you can see what a difference a dart can make :) - kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6nMnWmLrrCbisU

[@KittenBowl1]

@@ThoughtfulCreativity Thanks so much for your response! I will definitely follow your advice! Will be watching your recommendations! Thank you! 💕🙏🏻

[@mme2chicbouvier346]

I almost gave up trying to learn, thanks for sharing.

[@944gemma]

What a great video and explanation. This could even be turned into a tunic or dress.

[@ThoughtfulCreativity]

Gemma, very true! So many possibilities - I have turned this into a t-shirt and a colorblock top.

[@RitikSharma-jh5cc]

Awesome keep uploading this type of video's

[@gokokarol4554]

So simple so easy so butiful thanks

[@allisonbroomes3453]

Am saving this video, thanks

[@rabifaisal2078]

Oo such a lovely way 😍