Sheer layers are trending! The ZQ Tie Top has been on our radar to try out since we added Birgitta Helmersson's zero waste patterns to our online store. This pattern is a cute easy-sew shape for layering, and we made up a sheer version in popular chocolate brown! Read on for more, kindly modelled by Olivia from our HQ team.
Project Details
We used the ZW Tie Top from Birgitta Helmersson, in the size 1 range for our 135cm wide fabric. This is a zero waste pattern, designed for varying fabric widths, with two different size ranges (1 and 2). The layout for the sleeveless version is very simple! Our top took a little under 1m of of our Silk Cotton Organdy in the popular colour way Chocolate. The instructions require careful reading, but were easy to follow, and the only modifications we made were to take 5cm off the hem length, and sew the top with french seams - we love the end result! If you choose to sew this top with overlocked interior seams, it would be quite a bit easier and a fun adventure for a beginner sewist who wants to try out a zero waste pattern. The style is unlined and is sure to catch an eye or two in this crisp sheer fabric layered over a cami or bralette! We have an array of colours available in this fabric, all currently 40% off in our summer sale.
You can download the pattern online here!
What are zero waste patterns?
The essence of zero waste patterns is that they are designed so that every bit of your fabric gets used. No random little bits or unusable strips of fabric left behind. Instead of using typical pattern pieces that have curves for shaping fabric around areas of the body, zero waste pattern designs usually rely on straight lines and simple geometric shapes that fit together like a puzzle. They’re designed to use the full width of your fabric, which means that the layout instructions will sometimes change depending on the width of the fabric you are working with.
In most examples, the pattern designer provides you with a detailed set of instructions on how to make the most out of your fabric using a set of shapes and corresponding measurements. You can create the shapes out of newspaper or card if you wish, then lay the shapes directly onto your fabric, and cut them out with almost no leftovers, and sew them together to form a garment that is both wearable and modern. Zero waste patterns offer customisation – you can change pocket sizes, adjust gathers, hem lengths, sleeve widths, or shift seam lines. It’s a unique way of approaching sewing that many folks find refreshingly creative!
Shop zero waste patterns by Birgitta Helmersson here, and read our interview with designers Birgitta and Sam on the blog.
