Cordelia Peplum Sew Along Day 3

Welcome back to the Cordelia Sew Along and congratulations...we are half way to completion!  Yesterday we completed steps 1-10 of the bodice.  Your top should really be taking shape right about now.  Today we will use bias tape to create a very finished armhole.  This method is often referred to as a "French bias binding".  If you have never done this before, it is very easy to do and Michelle has provided excellent photo examples in the Cordelia pattern tutorial. 

You may choose to use prepackaged bias tape that can be purchased in the notions department of most fabric and craft stores, but you can also create your own bias tape.  If you aren't pressed for time then it is fun to perfectly match your bias tape by using some of the fabric you selected for your top.  It is relatively easy to do, too.  Click here for an excellent tutorial explaining the different styles and purposes of bias tape and how to create your own.  

After you finish sewing the armholes, you may notice that the bias tape is slightly puckered/wrinkled. Just press it with as hot and steamy an iron as your fabric will allow. If you are using a synthetic fabric, like a poly satin, be sure to cover with a press cloth!  Then steam, steam, steam while pressing firmly to smooth all those wrinkles away.

Next we will move on to creating the ruffle panel which in turn becomes the "peplum" part of the top.  So what exactly is a peplum, you ask?  Well, here is the dictionary definition...

pep·lum  noun 1. a short flared, gathered, or pleated strip of fabric attached at the waist of a woman's jacket, dress, or blouse to create a hanging frill or flounce.

You are now oh so close to the finish line!  Congratulate yourself for how cute your Cordelia is turning out.  Please join us tomorrow as we put the finishing touches on our top.