Block Paper Scissors is a monthly column featuring patternmaking hacks that will help you give your Seamwork patterns a custom spin — all you need is paper, a ruler, and a pencil!

This hack lengthens Charlotte to be a nightgown with side slits.

Note: Be sure to make any fit adjustments before doing the pattern hack.

You'll Need:

• 
  Charlotte version 2
  


• Pencil


• Paper


• Tape


• Scissors

How to:

Step | 01

Add 15 5/8” in length to the center front, center back, side panel, and underarm panel pieces by taping extra pattern paper to the bottom edges of the pattern pieces. Mark circles 7 5/8” up from the hem of the underarm panel. These will be your side slit markings.

Step | 02

Cut out the new pattern pieces and cut them from fabric.

Step | 03

When sewing the underarm panel seams, sew from the side slit markings up, leaving the seam allowances below the markings unsewn.

Step | 04

Clip through the seam allowances at the markings to the stitch line.

Step | 05

Finish the seam allowances above the markings together. Finish the unsewn seam allowances separately and press open.

Step | 06

On the right side of the garment, topstitch the seam allowances in place along the side slit opening. Press.

About the Author

As pattern designer, Anna works hard to make sure our sewing patterns boast both great style and instructions. She believes in the power of chocolate and coffee to cure just about anything.