How to Sew a Stretch Summer Top Pattern
Summer is here, and with it comes the urge to go outside and wear short skirts, dresses, or lightweight pants. The Malves Top sewing pattern is the perfect piece to pair with almost anything. It’s comfortable, easy to style, and with the lace-up back version, you can give it a different touch that feels completely your own.
The Malves Top comes with two versions: one with a closed back and one with an open lace-up back. The best part is that you only need one pattern to make both styles.
Since I first started creating sewing patterns, one of my goals has always been to waste as little paper as possible. I try to keep this in mind with every pattern I design. For this top, a simple fold on one side of the pattern piece allows you to change the back design and create the opening.
You can find the Malves Top sewing pattern in mi shop.
Both versions are designed to become a true staple in your wardrobe. You can wear them with jeans for a casual everyday look, or style them with a skirt and blazer for something a little more dressed up.
Honestly, this is the kind of top I reach for often in my day-to-day life, especially on those days when I have no idea what to wear and don’t feel particularly inspired. It’s simple, flattering, and easy to style.
The lace-up version is definitely my favorite. Being able to choose the color of the ribbon for the back adds a special touch and makes the top feel a little more unique — even a little sexy.
Is This Pattern Beginner-Friendly?
Yes, this is a very simple sewing pattern, so it’s a great option for beginners.
You’ll simply sew the two front pieces together, sew the two back pieces together, and then join the front and back by placing the right side of the front against the right side of the back.
You can watch the full sewing tutorial here:
What Do I Need to Make the Malves Top?
For my version, I used scuba knit fabric. I decided to make it with a double layer so it wouldn’t be see-through and so it would give a little more support around the bust.
Personally, I love being able to skip the bra, but I also want to feel comfortable and not worry about everything staying in place.
You can also make it with just one layer of fabric if you prefer. It will still look great, and it will be quicker to sew. It really depends on your personal preference and what feels most comfortable for you.
If you choose the open-back version, you’ll need eyelets or grommets for the back opening. I used a simple ribbon for the lace-up closure, but you could also use cord or make your own tie with bias binding.
Materials and Tools
For this project, you’ll need:
| Material / Tool | Notes |
|---|---|
| Stretch fabric | I used scuba knit, but you can choose another stable stretch fabric |
| Matching thread | For your sewing machine and serger, if using one |
| Eyelets or grommets | Only needed for the open-back version |
| Ribbon, cord, or handmade tie | For the lace-up back |
| Sewing machine | To sew the main seams |
| Scissors or rotary cutter | To cut your fabric pieces |
| Measuring tape | To check your measurements |
| Printer paper | To print your PDF sewing pattern |
I hope you like this pattern and, most importantly, that you enjoy sewing it.
If you have any questions, you can leave them in the comments or email me at hello@alphapatternss.com
