All-in-one facing tutorial

This tutorial is taken from my Hannah Top sewing pattern. I wanted to share it here since I think an all-in-one facing is a superb way of finishing a sleeveless top. I encourage beginners to give it a try since it’s a way to avoid any visible stitches along the neckline, giving you a professional finish even if your stitching isn’t quite as straight as it should be!

If the pattern doesn’t include a facing you can simply cut one by following the main pattern pieces for the neckline and armholes and then shaping the edges of the facings as you wish. The minimum width for a facing is 5 cm ( 2″ ). Note that this method only works when there’s a middle back seam. Always fuse all facing pieces with fusible interfacing, it will keep them neatly in place as well as help the neckline keep its shape over time.

Place facing pieces on top of bodice pieces, right sides facing. Stitch along armholes and neckline.
( This style has a keyhole opening at back with a button and loop closure. If the neckline is big enough to not need an opening finish stitching at middle back of neckline. )
Press all seam allowances towards the facing.

Flip up facing and understitch along all edges to attach seam allowance to facing. You might not be able to do this along the shoulders if they are narrow, but stitch as far as you can.

Trim seam allowance to 5 mm ( 1/4″ )Press carefully making sure all the curved edges are nicely shaped and topstitching is not visible from the right side.Stitch side seams, flipping up facings. Stitch front facing to back facing. Repeat for other side as well as middle back seam. Attach facing in place along side seams by stitching–in–the–ditch from the right side.