Hi there! It’s Heather here. I’m going to be sharing some tutorials here on Design Diary every once in awhile. I’ve really loved sewing all of Megan Nielsen’s girls’ patterns. They are so fun and cute and basic which fits right into my style! My daughter is 2.5 years old and just barely fitting into the smallest size. She is very petite for her age, and I’ve been not-so-patiently waiting to sew her clothes from all of the girls’ patterns!
The first item of clothing I made is a sleeveless Mini Briar with simple sleeve bands. I used a stretchy rayon spandex for the body so the fit is very loose. This is a tutorial for sewing regular knit bands and not the special knit binding version that Megan Nielson is famous for.
// MATERIALS //
- The Mini Briar Pattern
- Ribbing (like the pattern recommends)
- Stretchy fabric (like the pattern recommends, but you’ll need less because you won’t be cutting out sleeves)
- Sewing supplies
// INSTRUCTIONS // 
Sew the shoulders as the pattern recommends. Also, sew the sides together. Finish the edges.
Cut two strips of ribbing 2″ tall by 80-85% of the armhole circumference plus 1″ total seam allowance. Here is a quick guide; these are 80% of the armhole measurements.
|
Size 2/3 8.5″ + 1″ |
Size 4/5
9″ + 1″ |
Size 6/7
9.5″ + 1″ |
Size 8/9
10″ + 1″ |
Size 10/12 11″ + 1″ |
Sew the short edges together with 1/2″ seam allowance.
Fold the band in half lengthwise with wrong sides together.
Divide the band into four equal sections and mark with pins. Divide the armhole into four equal sections and mark with pins. Match up each section and pin all three layers together with the band on the right side of the shirt.
The armhole will be slightly longer than the band so you’ll have to stretch the band slightly as you sew. Sew with a stretch stitch at 1/2″. 
*Tip: I cut my bands 2″ tall which is the same height as the neckband. I sewed all my bands with 1/2″ seam allowance to get a uniform look, but this is a different seam allowance for the neckband than instructed in the pattern.
Sew on the neckband and hem the bottom.
Enjoy your summery Mini Briar! It’s perfect for hot days and busy girls.
