The Frankie Tankie is the perfect summer sewing pattern – it’s loose, super comfy and have that extra detail with tied shoulders to make it feel special.
It can be made up in an afternoon and only has 8-14 sheets to print (depending on size) and I’ve included three different cup sizes for minimal pattern faff before getting down to sewing.
You can finish the top using facings or you can make it fully lined for those lightweight and sheer summer fabrics and you can also make it fully reversible for two tops in one.
The fully lined top is the main version of the pattern and it’s is a great and easy way to make the inside look just as beautiful as the outside without needing an overlocker or any fiddly techniques.
Style
The Frankie Tankie is loose and relaxed, slightly cropped and has deep armholes. The pattern is simple to alter (and includes instructions on how to raise the armholes) and its very hackable. In fact, I have included two dress pattern hacks at the end of the instructions for you. Bonus!
Experience level
This pattern is beginner friendly and has very detailed instructions and include clear and precise illustrations to guide you through the process of making your own Frankie.
Fabric choice
This pattern is drafted for light to medium weight woven fabrics, such as cotton lawn, rayon, viscose and viscose mixes (I love viscose and linen mix for this). Check out Instagram highlights to get inspired.
Sizes
The pattern includes sizes UK 6-26 (EUR 34-54 / US 2-22) with full bust measurements 78 cm – 134 cm (31 ⅛ in – 53 ¾ in). The pattern includes three sewing cup sizes and help with how to pick your size in the chapter “Notes on Fit”. See table below for sewing cup sizes:
A (no dart): UK 6 – 14 (EUR 34-42 / US 2-10)
B: UK 8 – 20 (EUR 36 – 48 / US 4 – 16)
DD: UK 18 – 26 (EUR 46 – 54 / US 14 – 22)
Techniques
You will learn how to double turn a hem, use French seams (optional), bagging out armholes and necklines and under stitch.
What's included
- PDF pattern files for home printing in A4 and US Letter formats
- PDF pattern files in A0 format for copy shop printing (can be used for projectors too)
- Detailed instructions booklet
- Pattern envelope file
Contains:
- Instructions booklet with detailed illustrations
- Pattern and instructions in both centimeters and inches
- Envelope file
- A0 pattern file
- US Letter pattern file
- A4 pattern file
Materials you need at home:
- Fabric
- Sewing machine and thread
- Scissors and pins
What others have made
Vanessa Hansen
Vanessa has worked for many years in the London fashion industry as a creative pattern cutter. Now she is using her skills and love for sewing to make beautiful patterns for you to make at home. Her patterns are modern and have that extra flair - you will see nothing boring or basic about these sewing patterns. The instructions are packed with great skills to learn and are explained to you with detailed illustrations