Sparrow Refashion: A Blog for Sewing Lovers and DIY Enthusiasts

In this post, you will learn how to sew perfect bustier top or dress with free sewing patterns.

Do you want to learn how to make a bustier top pattern from scratch? A bustier top is a fitted garment that accentuates your curves and adds a touch of glamour to your outfit. Whether you want to make a bustier dress, a corset top, or a bustier top with puff sleeves, you need to start with a basic bustier sewing pattern that fits you perfectly.

In this post, I will show you how to measure yourself for a bustier top pattern, how to draw a bustier pattern from your own measurements, and how to hack your pattern to create different styles and shapes. You will also learn how to sew a bustier top, how to store and keep your pattern for multiple uses, and some pattern hacking ideas to inspire you.

What You Need to Make a Bustier Top Pattern

To make a bustier top pattern, you need the following materials and tools:

• A measuring tape
• A pencil
• A ruler , grab my sewing rulers for free from here
• A pair of scissors , learn more on sewing scissors
• A drafting paper and tracing pattern
• A calculator (optional)

How to Measure Yourself for a Bustier Top Pattern Drafting

To make a bustier top pattern, you need three measurements:

your bust, your underbust, above bust and

your waist.

Use a measuring tape to measure your bust at the fullest part, your underbust just below your bust, and your waist at the narrowest part. Write down these measurements and keep them handy.

Check out my detailed post on how to measure yourself for self pattern drafting.

How to Draw a Bustier Top Pattern from Your Own Measurements with Hacking

There are two methods to draw a bustier pattern from your own measurements. Here are some video tutorials that explain each method in detail:

• 1 Drafting method: How to Draft a Basic Bustier Pattern

• 2 Drafting method: How to Self Draft a Basic Bustier Pattern (super easy )

Free PDF Patterns for Bustier Tops

Bustier Pattern  , more fitted version.

Basic Bustier Block Pattern , you can customize it to suit your style

How to Download My Free Updated Bustier Top Pattern

As a token of my appreciation for your support , I have prepared a special gift for you. It’s a free updated sewing pdf pattern for a bustier in 5 sizes!

This pattern is perfect for creating a stunning and sexy outfit for any occasion. You can customize it with your choice of fabric, color, and embellishments. The pattern is super easy to follow.

To get your free pattern, all you have to do is subscribe to my newsletter.

Link to updated bustier top pattern here.

Subscribe now and stay tuned for more updates from me.

Check out as well:

How to print and assemble free PDF patterns

Learn how to cut out sewing patterns with tips and tools

How to Find Right Size

First of all, check the size of the bust. You can easily reduce or enlarge the waist later. Look on diagram below.

Check out how to measure yourself to see what size is the best for you.

Size Chart

According to your measurements, you can check the size chart to find the best size for you. Remember, you can modify it. For example, if your bust is m and your waist is xs, you can mix the patterns.

Seam Allowance

One important thing to remember when using the pdf patterns is that you need to add some seam allowance to them. Seam allowance is the extra fabric that you need to sew the pieces together.

For this bustier project, I recommend adding 1-1.5 cm | 0.4-0.6 in of seam allowance to all the edges of the pattern pieces. This will give you enough room to stitch the seams without compromising the fit.

You can use a ruler or a tape measure to mark the seam allowance on your fabric. Alternatively, you can use a special sewing tool called a seam gauge, which has markings for different seam allowances.

Adding seam allowance is a simple but essential step in sewing. It will ensure that your bustier turns out the right size and shape. 

Learn more:

How to add seam allowance in sewing

What You Need to Sew a Bustier Top

 Whether you want to make a bustier dress, a corset top, or a bustier top with puff sleeves, you need to have some basic sewing supplies and materials to get started. Here is a list of what you need to sew a bustier top:

Patterns

A bustier pattern: You can either buy a ready-made bustier pattern from a store or online, or you can download mine from above.

Fabrics

• A fabric: You need a fabric that has some stretch, such as cotton, satin, or velvet. The amount of fabric you need depends on your bustier size and style.
• A lining fabric: You need a lining fabric that is similar to your main fabric in weight and stretch. The lining fabric will help your bustier top fit better and feel more comfortable. You need the same amount of lining fabric as your main fabric.
• Some interfacing: You need some interfacing to make your bustier top more stiff and strong. You can use fusible interfacing or sew-in interfacing, depending on your preference. You need enough interfacing to cover the front and back pieces of your bustier top.
• Some elastic bands: You need some elastic bands to gather your puff sleeves if you add such. You can use any type of elastic bands that are thin and stretchy. You need enough elastic bands to fit around your arms comfortably.
• Some bias tape or ribbon: You need some bias tape or ribbon to make the boning channels on your bustier top. You can use store-bought bias tape or ribbon, or you can make your own bias tape or ribbon from your fabric. You need enough bias tape or ribbon to cover the seam lines and the notches on your bustier top.

Extras

• A zipper, buttons or other fastenings: You need a zipper or buttons to close your bustier top at the back. You can use an invisible zipper or a regular zipper, depending on your preference. The length of the zipper should be the same as the center back length of your bustier top.
• Some boning ( depends on fabric you use): You need some boning to give your bustier top some structure and support. You can use plastic boning or metal boning, depending on your preference. You need enough boning to fill the boning channels on your bustier top. 

Sewing tools

• A sewing machine: You can use a regular sewing machine or a serger, depending on your preference. You need to have some sewing machine needles that are suitable for your fabric and interfacing. You can use this guide to learn how to choose the right sewing machine needles for your project.
• A loop turner: You need a loop turner to pull elastic bands through the tunnels on your puff sleeves.  You can use this tutorial to learn how to use a loop turner for your bustier top.
• Some sewing tools: You need some basic sewing tools, such as fabric scissors, fabric pins, a measuring tape, a ruler, a pencil, an iron, and some matching thread.

You will also need a magnetic seam guide or a magnet to help you sew evenly.

What Fabrics Are the Best for Sewing Bustier Tops and Dresses

 Whether you want to make a bustier dress, a corset top, or a bustier top with puff sleeves, you need to choose the right fabric for your project. The fabric you choose will affect the look, feel, and durability of your bustier top or dress.

There are many types of fabrics that you can use for sewing bustier tops and dresses, but some of the most popular and suitable ones are:

Satin:

It is perfect for making elegant and luxurious bustier tops and dresses. Satin is easy to sew and drape, but it can be slippery and prone to fraying. You may need to use a stabilizer, such as interfacing or lining, to give your bustier top or dress more structure and support, learn more on this topic here and choose best stabilizer for your project. You may also need to use a special needle, such as a microtex or a universal needle, to prevent snagging or puckering, check out how to sew with delicate fabrics here 

Cotton:

Cotton is a natural fabric that is breathable, comfortable, and versatile. It is ideal for making casual and everyday bustier tops and dresses. Cotton is easy to sew and care for, but it can shrink, wrinkle, or fade. It would be good to prewash and iron your cotton fabric before sewing. You may also need to use a stabilizer, such as interfacing or lining, to give your bustier top or dress more structure and support. You may also need to use a special needle, such as a ballpoint or a stretch needle, to prevent skipping or breaking.

Lace:

It is perfect for making romantic and feminine bustier tops and dresses. Lace is tricky to sew and handle, but it can create stunning effects and details. You may need to use a stabilizer, such as interfacing or lining, to give your bustier top or dress more structure and support. Also think to use a special needle, such as a sharps or a universal needle, to prevent tearing or snagging. You may also need to use a special foot, such as a zipper or a walking foot, to prevent slipping or stretching.

These are some of the best fabrics for sewing bustier tops and dresses.

Explore new possibilities

You can also explore other fabrics, such as velvet, rayon, georgette , or even denim, to create the style you want. You can also mix and match different fabrics, such as using lace for the cups and satin for the bodice, to create contrast and interest. The possibilities are endless. 

Check out as well:

How to use a stabilizer in sewing.

How to sew with delicate fabrics.

Choose the best needle for your sewing project.

How to Sew Bustier Tops and Dresses

Once you have your bustier pattern ready, you can cut your fabric and start sewing your bustier top or dress :

How to sew button down  bustier dress 

Learn how to sew a bustier top 

Here you will learn how to sew a bustier top with puff sleeves.

Pattern hacking bustier top into corset top 

Bustier Top Pattern Hacking Ideas

Now that you have your basic bustier pattern, you can hack it to create different styles and shapes. Pattern hacking is the process of modifying an existing pattern to create a new design. You can change the neckline, the length, the shape, the closure, and the details of your bustier pattern to make it more versatile and fun.

Here are some pattern hacking ideas to inspire you:

How to Change the Shape of Your Bustier Top Pattern:

You can change the shape of your bustier to create different silhouettes, such as peplum, cropped, or asymmetrical. To do this, you need to redraw the hemline on your front and back pattern pieces and add or remove some fabric accordingly. Here you can change the shape of the bustier:

How to Make the Back of a Bustier from Two Pattern Elements into One:

How to Add Shirring at the Back:

Additionally, you can hack this pattern by adding 10 cm at the back for gathering or shirring back.

How to Draw the Neckline : Facing / Lining of a Bustier:

To make facing, redraw both the front and the back of the bustier. Then add 5 cm on the sides and connect them.

How to Change the Shape of Your Bustier Neckline:

You can change the shape of your bustier neckline to create different looks, such as sweetheart, square, V-neck, or off-the-shoulder. To do this, you need to redraw the neckline curve on your front pattern piece and adjust the facing or lining accordingly.

How to Reduce or Increase the Waist of Your Bustier Top Pattern:

You can reduce or increase the waist of your bustier to make it more fitted or loose. To do this, you need to adjust the side seams and the darts on your front and back pattern pieces and add or remove some fabric accordingly.

How to Reduce or Increase the Bust of Your Bustier Top Pattern:

You can reduce or increase the bust of your bustier to make it more comfortable and flattering. To do this, reduce or upsize its size as shown in the photo.

How to Add a Button Placket to Your Bustier Top Pattern:

You can add a button placket to your bustier to create a different closure and a more vintage look. To do this, you need to add some extra fabric to the center front of your front pattern piece and mark the buttonholes and the buttons. You can also add some interfacing to the placket to make it more stable and sturdy.

How to Store and Keep Your Bustier Top Patterns for Multiple Uses

If you want to use your bustier pattern for multiple projects, you need to store and keep it properly to avoid damaging it. Here are some tips on how to store and keep your pattern for multiple uses:

• Copy your pattern onto a sturdier paper, such as cardboard or poster board, to extend its life and durability.

• Label your pattern pieces with the pattern name, number, size, and fabric requirements for easy reference.

• Store your pattern pieces in clear folders, such as ones with pockets, fasteners, or dividers. These folders are great for keeping your patterns neat, visible, and protected from dust and moisture.

• Organize your folders by category, such as bustier tops, dresses, skirts, etc. You can also use color-coded labels or stickers to make your folders more identifiable.
• Store your folders in a dry and cool place, such as a drawer, a cabinet, or a shelf. Avoid exposing your patterns to direct sunlight, heat, or humidity, as they may fade, warp, or mold.

How to Style Bustier Tops and Dresses

Bustier tops and dresses are trendy and sexy garments that can make you stand out from the crowd. They are fitted and structured pieces that accentuate your curves and add a touch of glamour to your outfit. Whether you want to wear them for a night out, a date, or a casual day, you need to know how to style them properly to avoid looking tacky or overexposed. Here are some tips and ideas on how to style bustier tops and dresses for different occasions and seasons.

For a Night Out

If you want to rock a bustier top or dress for a night out, you need to balance the sexiness with some sophistication. You can do this by choosing a bustier top or dress that has some details, such as lace, embroidery, or embellishments, that make it more elegant and classy. You can also pair your bustier top or dress with some chic accessories, such as a clutch, a necklace, or a pair of earrings, that add some sparkle and shine to your look. As for footwear, you can go for some heels, such as pumps, sandals, or boots, that elongate your legs and enhance your posture

For example, you can wear a black lace bustier top with a red midi skirt and a black blazer for a sophisticated and sexy look. You can accessorize with a black clutch, a gold necklace, and a pair of black pumps

Or, you can wear a white bustier dress with some floral embroidery and a slit for a feminine and flirty look. You can accessorize with a pink clutch, a pair of pearl earrings, and a pair of nude sandals.

For a Date

If you want to wear a bustier top or dress for a date, you need to show some skin without revealing too much. You can do this by choosing a bustier top or dress that has a modest neckline, a decent length, and a flattering fit. You can also pair your bustier top or dress with some cozy and cute layers, such as a cardigan, a denim jacket, or a scarf, that add some warmth and texture to your look. As for footwear, you can go for some flats, such as ballet flats, loafers, or sneakers, that make you feel comfortable and relaxed.

For example, you can wear a striped bustier top with a pair of high-waisted jeans and a beige cardigan for a casual and cute look. You can accessorize with a brown crossbody bag, a pair of hoop earrings, and a pair of white sneakers.

Or, you can wear a pink bustier dress with a floral print and a ruffle hem for a sweet and romantic look. You can accessorize with a denim jacket, a straw hat, and a pair of brown sandals.

For a Casual Day

If you want to wear a bustier top or dress for a casual day, you need to tone down the sexiness with some fun and playful elements. You can do this by choosing a bustier top or dress that has some colors, prints, or patterns, that make it more lively and cheerful. You can also pair your bustier top or dress with some cool and casual pieces, such as shorts, pants, or skirts, that add some contrast and interest to your look. As for footwear, you can go for some wedges, such as espadrilles, platforms, or mules, that add some height and style to your look.

For example, you can wear a yellow bustier top with a polka dot print and a pair of denim shorts for a sunny and happy look. You can accessorize with a straw bag, a pair of sunglasses, and a pair of white espadrilles.

Or, you can wear a blue bustier dress with a plaid print and a button-down front for a cool and trendy look. You can accessorize with a black belt, a black backpack, and a pair of black mules.

These are some of the ways you can style bustier tops and dresses for different occasions and seasons. You can also experiment with different fabrics, styles, and shapes, to create your own unique and personal look. The key is to have fun and be confident with your bustier top or dress. 

Bustier Top with Cups

If you are interested in learning how to sew a bustier with cups, you will love my previous post. There, I show you how to create your own bustier pattern from scratch, using your measurements and some basic geometry.

You will also find free pdf patterns for the bustier cups in different sizes . You can print them out and use them as templates for cutting your fabric.

The bustier cups add more structure and support to your bustier, as well as enhancing your curves.

To read my previous post and get your free pdf patterns, click on the link below. You will learn how to make a beautiful bustier with cups that fits you perfectly.

How to sew a bustier with cups – free pdf patterns and pattern drafting

I hope you enjoyed this post and learned how to make a bustier top pattern from scratch. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. I would love to hear from you and see your creations. Happy sewing! 😊

In this post, you have learned how to self draft pattern or print ready PDF pattern and sew own bustier tops and dresses.

Disclaimer: All the patterns that I provide on this blog are for private and personal use only. You are not allowed to sell, distribute, modify, or share these patterns for any commercial or profit purposes. These patterns are my original creations and intellectual property, and I reserve all the rights to them. Please respect my work and do not violate these terms of use. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

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