Perfect, laying flat neckline band, made out of ribbing or the same fabric as the top. Don’t you want it to be perfect EVERY TIME? Here’s how I do it. Of course, you need to try it yourself. Remember that it can also depend on the width of the band itself. Practice and find your own perfect ratio!
What you need to do is measure your neckline on the pattern with measuring tape. Measure front, multiply by two and do the same with the back. Add those values together.
Now we will be reducing part of this length. All depends on the type of used fabric.
Ribbing
For the neckline band, 1cm average width made out of ribbing fabric, reduce by 1/5 of the original length.
Self-fabric
As self-fabric isn’t as stretchy as ribbing you have to reduce it by smaller amount so it’s longer. Reduce it by approx. 1/6-1/7 of total length. All depends on the type of knit and how stretchy it is. More stretch means you can make it shorter, less stretch and you should keep it a bit longer. Always try this first on toile. Once you have it mastered you won’t have to think about it again and you’ll be able to almost cut it blindfolded (edit: seriously don’t use scissors or rotary cutter blindfolded)
Always cut these on the crosswise stretch of the fabric
How to stitch it in place:
Simply fold it in half (right sides together) and stitch narrow sides together. Then fold it again but lengthwise wrong sides together.
Pin it to top neckline: centre seam should be in the middle of the back or match arm seam. Stretch your band and pin it evenly to the top neckline. Stitch together. Iron seam allowances. Topstitch if you like.
Want to try something different?
There are other alternatives for this band. I love using lingerie elastics.
There are three types that will work well as neckline bands:
– picot edge lingerie elastic
– fold over elastic
– plush backed elastic
They look really cute especially when used in children’s clothing and are beginner friendly.
These also will need trimming. Depending of the amount of stretch but quite significantly. Usually, these are even more stretchy than ribbing I suggest reducing it by about 25%. Again, test it first.
Good luck! 🙂
