How to modify the neckline on a body pattern

Modifying the neckline in a sewing pattern is a simple alteration that can give our garment a very different touch. I'm going to show you how to modify the neckline in a sewing pattern using the Sarah dress pattern as an example.

The Sarah dress pattern has a rounded neckline and what we are going to do is to create a neckline with a more square shape like the one you can see in the orange dress pattern.

Just as we can make this simple modification to the neckline, you can also change the circle skirt for a rectangular gathered skirt or even add a back lace up to get a more fitted body.

But now, let’s start with the modification.
We just need to use the front and back body patterns.

Join the front and back body patterns at the shoulder line. This way you get the neckline drawn in one line.
Now you can draw the new neckline as you like. In my case I have made a rectangular shape from the centres of the front and back. If you use my Sarah dress pattern, remember that the seam allowance is included. You will have to take it into account when modifying the pattern.

You can shape the neckline any way you like but you can’t get too close to the bust area because if the dress is too low cut you would have to make extra alterations which would be a bit more complicated.