How to Sew a Facing Using the Burrito Method (+ video!)

If you’ve ever wondered how to get a lovely clean finish on a sleeveless bodice, the burrito method is the secret! It’s a clever sewing technique that lets you sew an all-in-one facing or lining to the armholes without leaving any raw edges visible. The result? A neat, professional-looking finish inside and out.

It’s called the burrito method because… well, it involves some tight rolling! Don’t worry - it’s easier than it sounds, and once you’ve tried it, you’ll be using it on all your sleeveless makes. 

We're demonstrating the technique here on our Noa pinafore sewing pattern, but you can use this technique on any sleeveless bodice with a facing or lining.

Watch the full step-by-step video tutorial here:

What is the burrito method?

The burrito method is a way of attaching an all-in-one facing or lining to the neckline and armholes of a sleeveless bodice. By rolling the bodice tightly and sewing the armholes with the bodice sandwiched inside, you can stitch everything together right sides facing, and then pull it through for a beautifully clean finish.

It’s one of those techniques that feels a bit like sewing magic when you first try it!

How to sew princess seams

Princess seams are a gorgeous alternative to darts for adding shaping to a garment. If you haven’t sewn princess seams before, you may be look at your pattern pieces and wonder how you’re going to get the opposing curves to join together smoothly, without puckering. Read on for my tips on how to sew them successfully...

What are princess seams?

Princess seams are curved, vertical seams down a garment that create smooth lines which flow over the bust and/or hips. You may see them on a dress, pencil skirt, fitted jacket, and more.

I’m demonstrating on our Noa pinafore sewing pattern. You can use these same tips for other patterns.

How to Shorten a Metal Zip Step by Step (+ video!)

Found a metal zip, but it’s too long for your sewing project? Don’t worry - you can shorten it at home with a few simple tools. In this tutorial, we’ll show you step by step how to shorten a metal zip so it fits your garment perfectly. 

Whether you’re making trousers, a skirt, or a dress, knowing how to adjust a zip to the right length will save you from endless zip-shopping headaches. Once you’ve mastered it, you’ll be able to customise zips for all your handmade clothes! 

You can use this tutorial when making sewing projects such as our Noa pinafore (shown below), Thea trousers, and Ness skirt.

Watch the full video tutorial here:

Fitting the Noa Pinafore Sewing Pattern

So, you’ve got your hands on the Noa pinafore sewing pattern - yay! With its princess seams, optional waist adjuster and exposed zip, Noa is a polished style that looks great on so many body shapes. And because the pinafore is designed with shaping built in, it’s also a fab opportunity to practise fitting skills.

The good news? With a few simple tweaks, if you need it, you can get a custom fit that feels chef’s kiss perfect for your body. Let’s walk through some common adjustments you might want to make to your Noa…

What sizes are included in the Noa sewing pattern?

Whether you buy Noa as a printed or PDF pattern, there are 15 sizes included in every pattern, from UK 6-34 / US 2-30 / EUR 34-62. 

Sizes UK 6-16 (TATB sizes 1-6) and UK 18-34 (TATB sizes 7-15) have been drafted, fitted and graded separately to create a better fit. The latter sizes account for a different set of proportions with a fuller bust (dressmaker's D cup as opposed to B cup in the smaller sizes) and to allow a bit more room at the waist.

Of course, this is just a starting point. You may want to alter the pattern to get a more bespoke fit tailored to your unique body shape. Keep reading...