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Like many of you, I'm always looking for those perfect transitional pieces as we move into spring. Today, I'm sharing 10 tops that will help you build that handmade wardrobe you've been dreaming of - and the best part is, they're all quick projects you can finish in just a few sewing sessions .
As someone working toward an 80% handmade wardrobe, I've learned that versatile pieces that work across seasons are absolutely essential. Each of these tops has been carefully designed with layering in mind, making them perfect for those tricky spring days when the weather can't quite make up its mind.
Let's dive into these patterns, and I'll share my personal fabric recommendations and styling tips for each one.
Riley: Your New Favorite Crop
First up is the Riley top, a boat-neck crop that's stolen my heart this season. What makes this piece special is the cinched waist with sweet side ties – no more constant tucking and re-tucking throughout the day! For fabric, I recommend something with beautiful drape. A cotton lawn with a playful print would be perfect, or try it in a soft linen for those warmer spring days.
Samson: The Ultimate Versatile Layer
The oversized fit and dropped shoulders of Samson give it that effortless style we're all after. I love that you can make this in either woven or knit fabrics – try it in a printed linen for spring, or go for a soft French terry if you want something cozier. The boat neckline is incredibly flattering, and the high-hip length works perfectly with your favorite high-waisted bottoms.
Loretta: Two Tops in One
Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorites – the Loretta top. Don't let its simplicity fool you; this pattern packs a serious style punch with those gorgeous flutter sleeves. The best part? You can wear the neckline as either a scoop neck or off-the-shoulder, giving you two completely different looks. I've made this multiple times in eyelet fabric for that perfect spring feeling, but it's also beautiful in lawn or double gauze – anything that lets those flutter sleeves dance.
Wynn: Vintage-Inspired Charm
The Wynn top is one of those pieces that makes you feel instantly put-together. With its woven tie-front design and thoughtful details like front and back waist darts, it gives you beautiful shaping while remaining incredibly comfortable. For spring, I'd recommend trying this in a cotton lawn – the fabric store Lady McElroy has some beautiful options, and remember, Seamwork members get an exclusive discount at our recommended fabric shops.
Romie: Beginner-Friendly Beauty
Don't let the classic details fool you – Romie is perfect if you're just starting to sew blouses. The Peter Pan collar and notched neckline with ties give it such a sweet, vintage-inspired look, while the gathered sleeves add that special touch. Since it's a pullover design, you won't have to worry about any tricky closures – perfect for building your confidence while creating something beautiful.
West: Your First Button-Up Success
If you've been nervous about trying a button-up shirt, West is your perfect starting point. We've designed this with cut-on sleeves to make construction easier, while still giving you that classic shirt look. The gathered back yoke adds a feminine touch that balances the utilitarian patch pockets. Try it in chambray or seersucker for that perfect spring vibe.
Cove: Elevated Everyday Comfort
The Cove sweater is your answer to those chilly spring mornings. It's so much more sophisticated than your average sweatshirt, thanks to that beautiful rolled collar detail. For fabric, I recommend a French terry or lightweight sweater knit – I recently found some gorgeous options at Style Maker Fabrics that would be perfect for this. Layer it over the Jenny top or pair it with our Palmer pants for a coordinated look that feels polished but comfortable.
Jenny: The Perfect Layering Piece
Speaking of layering, let's talk about Jenny. This fitted mock-neck is one of those pieces you'll reach for again and again. The yoke detail on the front and back elevates it beyond a basic top, making it special enough to wear alone but perfect for layering under other pieces. When choosing fabric, look for a knit with good four-way stretch – I love bamboo jersey for this one. It's also beautiful layered under our Ulla dress, which I'm planning to make in denim for spring.
Farah: Wrap and Go
I'm actually in the middle of making the Farah wrap top right now for my own spring wardrobe! There's something so satisfying about sewing pieces you know will become wardrobe staples. The full-length sleeves and bound neckline that extends into the waist tie create such a flattering silhouette. I'm making mine in an ivory lightweight sweater knit – it's the kind of versatile piece that helps me get closer to my goal of an 80% handmade wardrobe.
Madhu: Your Free Quick-Sew Pattern
Here's the exciting part – right now, you can get our Madhu pattern absolutely free when you sign up for our Snippets newsletter! This cropped raglan with elastic finishing is probably the quickest sew of the bunch. I'm planning mine in white linen for spring, but it would be equally lovely in cotton lawn or double gauze. Remember, we rotate these free patterns seasonally, so don't miss out!
Ready to refresh your spring wardrobe? If you're a Seamwork member, don't forget to log in before shopping at any of our recommended fabric stores – you'll get an exclusive discount on your purchases.
What's your first spring sewing project going to be? Have you tried any of these patterns? I'd love to hear about your fabric choices and see what you create!
