When sewing the bodice, sew only the sides and curved top. Don’t sew the bottom where the darts have been cut out (the triangular areas). Photo 1 shows the sewing line in white and the non-sewing lines in yellow. In Photo 2, you can see that I have used a pink thread to sew the bodice in order to visually demonstrate where to sew. Under normal circumstances, you want to match your thread to your fabric.
1. Sew Top and Sides (White Line)
2. Pink Thread Shows Where to Sew
Once you have sewn the bodice, you are ready to trim away the excess fabric. Around the top and sides, I use pinking shears getting very close to the stitches without cutting into them. I also cut the bottom of the bodice with pinking shears, but I do not cut the darts (triangles) with the pinking shears. Rather, I use a regular scissors to cut away the fabric in the darts.
Cut Away Excess Fabric
Once I have completely cut away the excess fabric around the bodice, I use Dritz Fray Check (available at fabric and craft stores) to ensure the fabric doesn’t fray at the darts. You can use quick drying clear nail polish, but use it carefully. Keep the nail polish along the edges of the fabric so that it cannot be seen once you have sewn the darts closed.
1. Dritz Fray Check for Darts
2. Apply Fray Check to Edges of Darts
Set the bodice aside to allow the Dritz Fray Check to dry.