Making A Retro Wrap Top // Patterning and Sewing the Cross Back Style

By popular demand, I give you the little retro wrap top from last week's video! These are so simple to make I was able to throw another one together this last weekend to show you all how I pattern drafted and put together this style of top. Easy to sew, I expect I'll be using this pattern again in the future for more simple tops for my vintage inspired wardrobe.
Fabric from Mood (the white is sold out but they have black and tan too!): www.moodfabric...
Music from Epidemic Sound
Where I get my pattern drafting paper: atlaslevy.com/P... (not sponsored)
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But wait there's more! A PO BOX finally wahoo!
First, a disclaimer: So many of you have kindly offered to send me things, including vintage items you may have inherited, and I am so honored you would think of me and of course I do adore vintage treasures, however, unfortunately I only have so much storage space currently! So there is a chance that if something just wont work for me, or doesn't fit me etc, that I may not be able to keep all of your lovely things. Please only send things if you are okay with the possibility that I may donate items I just cannot keep. If you would prefer I put things that I can't keep into the TCH Etsy shop to help raise funds for me and the channel, please specify this in a note or letter in your parcel. Thank you so much!
Bianca Esposito
PO Box 632177
Highlands Ranch, CO 80163
Thank you for watching!

[@strangestvintage6932]

You're actually my version of "fireplace ambiance" - I find your voice really relaxing and you have such a calm and methodical way of explaining things, it's just enjoyable to listen to while I do chores

[@doitwithgrace3850]

It reminds me of golf commentators, in the best way. Lol

[@rd6203]

Oh yes! I always have to rewatch these videos the next day, because they relax me right to sleep. Iz awesomeness! 🧡🖤🧡

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I even use a "fireside" scented perfume, so I guess I AM the fireplace ha!

[@RiaRaynedrops13]

I agree! I often have your videos in the background when I'm sewing. So calming. I also have a candle that's like that campfire smell.

[@karenalise7775]

Same! Normally i watch these videos while I’m sewing. But today I went on a walk with the stroller and listened to one.

[@maryblaylock6545]

I have never seen a back wrap blouse before. That is perfect for a person with a large chest! The front wrap is a disaster waiting to happen! Thank you for showing us how it was done and why. And don't worry cause everything was clear.🌹

[@kckazcoll1]

so true!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Mary!

[@growforkeeps4432]

YES! As an...ahem...overly endowed individual, I immediately saved and liked this video. Also, love that this top has cap (ish) sleeves! The only thing I would want to change is how short it is. I'm more likely to wear jeans than a skirt, so maybe a quick mention about the best way to add a bottom pattern piece - for more "modern" look - would be great.

[@damogranheart5521]

@@growforkeeps4432 I agree. If I raised my arms about 3 inches of midriff would be showing!

[@jesstoselli]

This video is quite old already, I'm not sure you're gonna see this comment, but... I've studied pattern making here in Brazil and even though I've been making my own clothes for over 6 years now, I've found you channel a game changer. The way you think the alterations required to make a certain pattern make so much more sense than the way I was taught and from which I was super scared to deviate. I've just cut this retro wrap top, will be sewing it tomorrow. I'm very excited! Thank you so much! Also, I gotta agree with everyone else, your voice is incredibly soothing and I love just leaving the videos rolling... 💜🤍💚

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you so much Jessyca!

[@marinary1326]

"Stop sneaking peeks!" Peeks of what, I didn't see anything I swear, absolutely no peeking going on here! :P

[@asilverfoxintasmania9940]

I wasn't paying attention to the top of the screen til someone pointed out that I shouldn't be sneaking peaks.... ;)

[@fawntheresa5338]

Wonderful! "And your body goes in here" Loved this.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Fawn!

[@karenmalay3046]

Totally get what you were saying about the cherry print fabric. Recently made a dress with a large hibiscus print. Had to position the fabric so the flower centers wouldn’t end up in “unfortunate” places.

[@UnderOrange]

I love how you did the print placement on this one! It turned out so elegant. Very well done, thanks for this video! ❤️

[@jaysianeira225]

The extra attention is worth the outcome

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@reeseoroni]

I use a "Magnetic Seam Guide for Sewing Machine" (search term) on my 1948 Singer 201 to mark seam allowance. This video is a perfect tutorial. I made this and am loving it. So good. I will be signing up for Patreon since I'm constatnly referring to your videos for new creations. Thank you.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you so much!!

[@Kindofalot]

I'm so intimidated by patterns and piecing things like clothing together (because let's be honest I usually don't end up with a wearable garment😂) but your videos always give me the confidence to give them another go and to not give up! Beautiful top! And I love the pattern on the fabric😊

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Ash! I hope to demystify the patterning process as much as I can, I'm always working on how to do it a bit better ha!

[@christinevr7698]

I adore wrap tops! Thank you for the explanation - esp with the modifications- so helpful, to understand how why it needs to happen (or not). That wrap top is gorgeous on you.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Christine!

[@vinceena]

That is what I call a perfect fit.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@kaytiej8311]

Barbara, aka 99, is sure to give you good service for many years. Thanks for sharing the finer details of alterations that you make. It's all very helpful and inspiring. And even your coffee-effected inarticulation is entertaining!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Kaytie!

[@kirsten4211]

Ooo, thank you for going into detail about closing the one dart on the back on the wrap side. I had such an awful time fitting an indie wrap dress pattern that I decided to fit a block and learn flat drafting. Making that is still on my to-do list, and I wouldn't have considered drawing through the apex like that.

[@alexandraleigh]

You are a Magician {I do not care that there is a science behind it} LOL and thanks for helping me overcome my fear of working with prints!! Very Lovely and now I understand wrap tops and don't fear them being so scary

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Alexandra!

[@bluestar.8938]

Gotta watch those cherries : ) Thank you lovely B : )

[@damogranheart5521]

Watched it again and got even more out of it! You are right. That material is so very beautiful that I think I would be hammering my head against the wall because I hadn't gotten enough to make a kimono!

[@adamreynolds9816]

Green Silk and corset. I can’t wait. I am 80% done making a corset. I can’t wait to see where that goes.

[@asilverfoxintasmania9940]

You got the print placement perfect on the front! Thank you for taking time out of your writing schedule to post this for us! I look forward to making some of these a little bit later in the year, still a bit cool here for me to be wearing short sleeves.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@dianakidd5688]

Another excellent example of why a well fitting Bodice Sloper is so important ~ Because you can create anything from it! Thanks for yet another fabulous tutorial!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Diana!

[@leannevantyghemleroux6003]

Bonus videos can never disappoint, I love this top and I might be tempted to make a version with longer sleeves! Thank you so much for your clear explanations on pattern drafting, you definitely helped me in becoming a better seamstress!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Léanne! ❤

[@michellecornum5856]

This was exactly what I needed, today. I've been listening to Rainy Night Coffee Shop Ambiance with Jazz music. I gotta tell ya, I just can't get enough of your pattern sheers! They look like tree trimmers and your hand is a yard away from what you are cutting, and yet. . .it's oddly satisfying to watch . How exciting to get a bonus. Stay well.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Michelle! They double as a self defense situation for sure!

[@poco3219]

I will definitely try this one. Beautiful print and lovely skirt.

[@miniaturephilosopher]

Your videos make me feel like I could maybe make my own patterns....first step will be following your sloper tutorials! Thanks for all the work you've put into this.

[@constancemuller9775]

Thank you Bianca!

[@petapendlebury9024]

Lovely as always! Just a thought - my vintage Singer sewing machine came with all its original feet and a funny looking t bar with a hole in the end. Turned out to be a seam guide - the hole allows it to be screwed into one of the holes on the bed of the machine (to the right of the needle). Wish I could pop a photo of it for you!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

I have seen them while researching the machine! Interesting looking little doodad indeed.

[@janethagy8871]

I always pick up a tip or two watching your videos. Love that fabric and with that olive circle skirt! Be still my heart.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Janet!

[@DawnYarnDoll]

Yes it's time for the amazing wrap top! LOL for the Easter egg hints on the green fabric upcoming project. Sending endless well wishes and positive vibes xo

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Dawn! ❤

[@lynn858]

Should I have a coffee at 11pm? No. But it sounds so yummy now that you mention it. Lovely use of that print.

[@kayhamil23]

This is awesome! I thoroughly enjoy your videos! The way you speak is soothing, even when you are yelling at your past self! 🤣 Thank you! You've inspired me to begin sewing clothing! I'm nervous and excited!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! You can do it!! 🧵

[@22mendonca]

I could listen to you for hours doll! Such soothing tones! Adore this style of top with beautiful fabric! Xx

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Jo!

[@skirtedgalleons]

Gonna replace all my frumpy t-shirts with wrap tops (2021 goals)

[@Toyon95]

I also want to do that now haha XD

[@buzzi2k]

Wraptop Back headliner band in the line up with: Armhole Princess Fullbust Adjustment ...

[@deniseheringer8972]

I’m kinda crazy about these little wrap tops, especially in this fabric. Thank you for giving us some of your writing time to share this video. Yes, peeking, can’t wait to see these upcoming projects 😊

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Denise! Very exciting projects coming up soon :)

[@dallasmandy]

I didn't even notice what you were making. I just saw your face and thought thank God I need this

[@TheClosetHistorian]

❤ Glad I can be a relief for a bit! I would not be holding it together without KZbin this year myself that's for sure!

[@caitmcg4382]

Yes I loved that top in your previous video!!! So cool to see how these come together.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Cait!

[@totalanimalsoup]

sooo gorgeous! i'm a big fan of this look! it would look so dope with high wasited jeans or trousers!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Frankie! I would totally wear this with high waisted jeans for sure!

[@viktoriavintage556]

This is just the perfect project for the William Morris fabrics that they have in my favorite fabric store!

[@ajjones8013]

Mood has this print still - I was just considering ordering it a few days ago. Your project is gorgeous!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Aj!

[@Maellen]

This version with the green skirt looks specially elegant. Love it!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Maellen!

[@NikkNacqs]

SHANT CUT IT OUT. MUST SNOOP. Also thanks for sharing all these processes with us, I keep finding new wardrobe pieces I need / must make.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

;) Thanks Ashley!

[@Sew_Learning]

Thank you Bianca for showing us how to draft and sew this wrap top...very much appreciated! It looks gorgeous! Best wishes from Down Under🇦🇺👗👠👒✂️📍👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻♥️😎

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Rhonda! ❤

[@odalithcardenas3697]

Thank you

[@paganodesignworks]

So cute!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Jenni!

[@lindarosenthal6835]

Lovely

[@faylowery8693]

This was a great video. Thank you for taking time off your writing to do this and showed how you did it.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Fay!

[@kckazcoll1]

that was great! So much easier than trying to adjust a front wrap top to fit, love it! Stunning result :)

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Kaz!

[@valeriewade3688]

Thanks to this video, I was inspired to make a front wrap (ooh er) top to go with a lovely Jaegar vintage sunray pleat skirt I scored from a charity shop here in the north east of UK I'd always wondered why I couldn't get a wrap top to fit me , but now I know. I used an old bodice pattern and followed your directions.. Hey Presto, I've have a lovely little wrap top in a 50s vibe print Thank you for the tutorial and inspiration

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Valerie! Got to love sunray pleats, so nice ❤

[@debbiewakeland1353]

I so enjoy your videos.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Debbie!

[@jenniferakin7203]

Yeah! Another video, freshly uploaded! Awesome!!!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Jennifer ❤

[@joannaaugustine2310]

This wrap top turned out so wonderful! Perfect timing too, I've been contemplating adding a wrap top to my project list

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Joanna!

[@danielletdg8423]

I recently found your channel and I am loving your content! As a newer sewer to clothing I appreciate how you explain things, and really appreciate the thoroughness in showing how you draft patterns. Keep up the great work!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Danielle!

[@marciahighsmith4820]

Lovely tops!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Marcia!

[@rebekkawacherhausenwichman236]

Great make and tutorial! A style that would be flattering on most people. Thank You! 😊 👍❤️😍

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Rebekka!

[@seriouslyinsanediva]

Lovely!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@evelynhearnsberger660]

I enjoyed this video. The blouse is really nice. I love the print. It’s always so relaxing to watch you pattern draft and sew and talk too😁.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Evelyn! ❤

[@canceraven]

I made a Ravenclaw ambience and I use it for similar, love the top. Gorgeous.

[@dayzemae9015]

Good job❤

[@LizVonVillas]

Gorgeous fabric 😍 I love the finished product!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Liz!

[@elizabethwilson5349]

Love this! Beautiful choice of fabric and I LOVE how you styled it with the skirt. Bravo!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Elizabeth!

[@digitaldgirl4459]

So beautiful. The fabric is just beautiful.

[@dpr4820]

That is so gorgeous! I can't wait to try the pattern modifications and make one. I love your videos!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@user-hw5ri9wx5j]

Reaiiy liked the model. I will definitely sew myself. Thank you !

[@brendabaum6442]

Gorgeous as usual!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Brenda!

[@pinatrima3116]

Thank you. I am learning so much from you.

[@lynnekingham8754]

Thank you for this. Everything I know about dart manipulation I have learnt from you!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Lynne!

[@brendabijak7171]

LOVE< LOVE LOVE!!!!!! Those colors look great on you! Perfect!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Brenda!

[@fionacreates]

oh wow, I love clothing with high neck and low back, I think this may be one to try out!

[@violetsidhe]

Thank you for the bonus video

[@frankieb43]

Looks lovely. Xx

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Frankie!

[@frenchy2466]

Yaya bonus videos!!

[@deanalovessewn6117]

Hi Bianca!! Wonderful vlog.. Absolutely gorgeous wrap top.. Thank you for giving us some of your precious writing time.... 💜💜💜🧵🧵🧵

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Deana!

[@StephanieCanada]

I love this wonderful blouse! Excellent work!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Stephanie!

[@geministargazer9830]

See if you can get a ruffle foot for that machine because I LOVE my ruffle foot. I don’t use it too often but when I do, omg so easy to gather things

[@mimzyriepensell1423]

Thanks for showing how to line a top...very helpful as were the tips on placing a pattern on a print fabric....

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@pay4fish]

Beautiful top!!! Also, love how your props have evolved!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I'll use these boxes till they rot they took so dang long to make ha!

[@bohemiansusan2897]

To adjust the bobbin tension for your Bernette: place bobbin in the case and feed the thread through until about 6 inches is sticking out. Then take the bobbin casing and shake it once. Thread should give freely but not too easily or not at all, 3 inches is about right. To adjust the bobbin tension, use the screwdriver to tighten or loosen. From then on, tension adjustments should be at top thread. Its pretty straightforward. I've always managed better stitching and less headache with a bottom feeding bobbin.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Alas I have watched many a video, but just right, the sweet spot of not too loose and not too tight, still evades me I'm afraid! Thank you!

[@bohemiansusan2897]

@@TheClosetHistorian some can figure it out by video and others have to physically feel the give to get bobbin tension. Might bring it into a sewing shop and they could adjust it and then you could give the thread a good flick to know.

[@mandycollins8795]

Gorgeous! As always, thank you for sharing your projects with us!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Amanda!

[@koconnor117]

Extra video, hooraay! And a very cute top

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Krystal!

[@melodysimonson1510]

I love that fabric!

[@ravensnestacres7218]

This is awesome, I’ll be making one of these after I move. Great video as always thanks.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Elaine!

[@bonecharm]

Obsessed with the print for this top, absolutely gorgeous!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I have the same print in black as a dress as well 😅

[@tracieeaton1082]

You are so clever. The top is beautiful, I am in love with the print.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Tracie!

[@sharonrussell7933]

I just love this fabric. It did up so beautifully.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Sharon!

[@tazbop1]

Hello this was great.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Katrice!

[@Dishcreator84]

Very pretty, you are a pleasure to watch, drafting is so interesting.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Brenda! ❤

[@trulytart3534]

I am looking, respectfully, at the corset. (Great top btw)

[@TheClosetHistorian]

;)

[@rachellynncreates2703]

Thank you so much for the extra video!! This tutorial was great.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you RachelLynn!

[@Lamdennison]

Fabulous tutorial and adorable blouse, as always!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Leigh-Ann!

[@hazelgeno]

Love the completed outfit, it’s perfect for Fall!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Tamra!

[@Anna-qb3pv]

Love this! I've been trying to work on a capsule wardrobe and these tops will come in handy!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Anna!

[@andreaj5767]

Love that top !! I love the print so pretty.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Andrea!

[@sarahduffy6964]

I love how you manipulate your block patterns. How do you tackle collars? It would be an exciting video.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I have a bit in this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJ-ch6asa7SBoas

[@sarahduffy6964]

@@TheClosetHistorian Thank you! I appreciate you taking the time out of your day to link this. That's so nice of you.

[@jessieupton4643]

Sublime! I love this blouse!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Jessie!

[@Ddouglas0302]

This is such a cute top! Looks beautiful! ❤️

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Denise!

[@karenmcneil7546]

You are so clever 🙂

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@Rotten_Ralph]

I know it’s an older video but mood has reordered the black and currently has the white back in stock as of 8:58pm Tuesday the 15th of March 2022

[@sarahlongshore2605]

So beautiful! !!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Sarah!

[@trudicole3520]

Very nice

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Trudi!

[@Chowah]

I love your videos

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Gia!

[@louiselill1528]

Such a beautiful top I really like the style

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Louise!