Although it’s not sweater weather quite yet, it is the perfect time to start transitioning your wardrobe. Mood Fabrics’ short sleeve Florence Twin Set, our latest free sewing pattern, is perfect for layering on days when the weather can be unpredictable. Warm days can quickly turn into cool nights, so be prepared for anything in this cute tank and cardigan combo! For this tutorial, we are using Mood’s Rose and Charcoal Striped Stretch Rayon Rib Knit. It’s extremely soft with a light and airy drape. For really cool days, you can easily extend the length of your sleeve and use one of Mood Fabrics Tubular Cotton Rib Knits. Check out “Sewing With Knits” for helpful tips and tricks right here on Mood Sewciety!

Purchase Materials Used Below:

• 2 yards of Rose and Charcoal Striped Stretch Rayon Rib Knit
• 1 yard of Old Rose Floral Stretch Lace Trim – 1.25″
• 3 pieces of European AB Pink Self Back Glass Button – 18L/11.5mm
• 4 spools of 323 Old Rose 1000m Gutermann Mini King Serger Thread
• MDF325 – The Florence Twin Set Free Sewing Pattern (free download below!)

Alternative Recommended Fabrics:

• Tubular Knits
• Waffle Knits
• French Terry

Here’s How To Sew: (Note all seam allowances are ⅜”. A serger is recommended) 

Step 1: Attach the top portion of your bodice (A) to the back bodice (D) at the shoulder seams. Next, attach your lace trim around the neckline using a straight stretch stitch. 

Step 2a: Sew a basting stitch between the notches indicated on the bust, then pull on the thread to slightly gather. 

Step 2b: Fold over the CF edge on the bottom portion of the front bodice (B) to create the placket. First, apply a strip of heat & bond soft stretch adhesive to reinforce the placket. Then, fold over the edge 3/8” and then double fold at ¾”.

Step 3: With the right sides of the fabric together, pin the top bust and bottom bodice together and stitch. 

Step 4: With the right sides of the fabric together, pin the front and back together at the side seams and stitch.

Step 5: Fold the sleeves with the right sides of the fabric together and stitch along the side seams. Matching up the notches, pin and set your sleeves in place. 

Step 6: Evenly space 3 buttonholes and sew on buttons at the top of your placket. Finish the edges of the sleeves and bottom edges with a lettuce hem.

Tank Top: 

Step 1: Fold your straps in half lengthwise and stitch along one side at ⅜” away from the edge. Use a loop turner or safety pin to turn the straps right side out. 

Step 2: With the right sides of your fabric facing together, pin the front and back together at the side seams. Stitch in place using a ⅜” seam allowance.

Step 3: Sew to finish the entire top edge of the tank top. I finished all of my edges using a serger. Once the edge is finished fold it over at ⅜” and stitch it in place using a straight stretch stitch. 

Step 4: Mark the location for the shirring on the CF using the guide on your pattern. Use a basting stitch to sew and gather the CF. Place a small piece of elastic tape on the wrong side of the fabric over the gathering to keep it in place.

Step 5: Match your straps to the notches placed on the top edge front and back bodice. Stitch the straps in place. Backstitch to secure them. 

Step 6: Finish the edge with a lettuce hem.

Your Florence Twin Set is done!