Lark Variation Strap Neckline Detail Variation

Today I'm bringing you a quick and simple Lark variation, how to add a strap neckline detail, as pictured above. It adds an extra bit of interest plus it's a fun and super easy way to change up the pattern!

The first thing you will want to do is construct a Lark exactly as instructed to do so in the booklet. You can use whichever sleeve length you wish but be sure to use the scoop neckline for this variation.

Once you have a completed Lark, try the tee on and use a soft measuring tape to measure from one shoulder seam straight down to center front and back up again to the other shoulder seam.

Hint: It's a good idea to mark the center front with a pin to help you get an accurate measurement.

Next you will cut two separate pieces of fabric, one will be your anchor and one will be the strip. For the anchor you will want to cut a square piece of fabric 2" X 2", set it aside.

Then cut a 1" wide strip the length of your personal shoulder distance subtract 2". As an example, for my tee I measured 14", so I cut a strip 1" X 12".

Fold both the small square and the strip you just cut in half. Sew the seam at 1/4." You can either sew the pieces on a serger or your regular sewing machine.

You will now have your tee, the neckline strap, and the anchor piece.

Attach a safety pin to one raw edge of the strip, insert the safety pin inside the tube and push it towards the opposite end, pulling the tube right side out. Do the same thing for the anchor. Press the anchor so the seam is in the middle and the long tube so the seam is on one side of the piece. Hint: if you serged it will naturally want to press in that direction.

Fold the anchor in half so the two raw edges meet. Sew the two edges together.

From here you will want to find the center front of your Lark, mark it with a pin. Then center the anchor and pin in place. Sew exactly on top of your topstitching or stitch in the ditch if you chose not to topstitch.

Insert the long strip into the anchor you just sewed onto your shirt. You can optionally serge the ends of the strip for a more finished look. From here, try your tee on and check that the strip hasn't stretched while you were working with it. if it has, simply cut the ends so it lays nicely along your collar bones.

Once you are sure you have the correct length, remove the tee and pin the ends in place. Pin each end right on top of the point where the neckline binding meets the shoulder seam.

Sew each end exactly on top of your topstitching or stitch in the ditch if you choose not to topstitch. Give your tee a finish press and that's it, you're finished!