The Rectangle Top is a playful, beginner-friendly pattern built from the simplest of shapes—rectangles! Simple rectangles are the building blocks of this pattern, yet once constructed, the results are anything but simple. In fact, the simplicity of the rectangles creates endless room for creativity. With thoughtful details and versatile options, this top is intentionally designed to feel approachable for new sewists while simultaneously making space for more experienced makers to explore their creativity.
At its core, the Rectangle Top offers two neckline options:
Straight slit neckline (View A) – a clean, linear opening that feels modern and minimal.
Square neckline (View B and C) – a more structured option that gives a contemporary, polished look, with two depth variations to choose from: a subtle shallow cut or a bolder deep cut.
Each neckline sets the overall mood of the top, letting you decide whether your Rectangle Top leans more towards minimalist and playful, or elegant and chic.
The pattern also includes three waist variations:
Shirred-waist version (View A) – a longer, gathered style that feels soft and feminine, with textural detail at the midsection.
Elastic-waist version (View B) – a slightly boxy silhouette cinched in at the waist, balancing ease with shape.
Basic straight hem (View C) – the cleanest and simplest option, allowing the fabric itself to shine.
To expand its versatility even more, the Rectangle Top offers three sleeve styles:
Sleeveless (View A and B) – perfect for summer or layering.
Elbow-length sleeve (View C) – an easy everyday option.
Long sleeve with elastic cuff (View C) – a relaxed yet polished look with a touch of volume.
The Rectangle Top is also compatible with the Infit Sleeve and Tie Dress Sleeve, giving you even more ways to personalize your top.
I’ve put together three views with my favourite combinations, but you’re free to create your own mix. The possibilities are truly endless!
Whether you’re after a quick beginner-friendly project or a pattern you can keep returning to with new ideas, the Rectangle Top is here to deliver ease, adaptability, and a touch of modern charm to your handmade wardrobe.
Note: You can absolutely draft the Rectangle Top on your own with some guesswork by following the sewalong video—that works just fine! But if you’d prefer step-by-step instructions and tested measurements for fit and ease, the pattern is available to guide you. 🙂
SUGGESTED FABRIC
The Rectangle Top transforms dramatically depending on the fabric you choose. Because the design itself is so simple, fabric plays the biggest role in setting the mood and the fit. Think about whether you want a soft, flowing look or a playful, structured silhouette—and also how certain fabrics interact with your own body shape.
Because the Rectangle Top is built on clean, geometric lines, every fabric choice changes its personality—moving from delicate and romantic to bold and playful, or even cozy and polished with fall/winter fabrics.
SEWING LEVEL: BEGINNER
Size Range: US SIZE XS - 3XL | UK SIZE 4 - 30 | EU SIZE 32 - 58
(Please refer to the size chart in the product photo)
SEWALONG VIDEO
Please note: There is a detailed step-by-step sew along video available on the Sewing Therapy YouTube channel, so photos and illustrations in these instructions have been kept to a minimum.
Full Length Video
View A: https://youtu.be/21do_U07bmI?si=13y9z60d-qE__3NO
View B: https://youtu.be/44_402zio3U?si=F3QE5t3Nhl7i9Oj8
View C: https://youtu.be/l1QwqYf9wAw?si=E08QLrEU5QbSpGWh
PATTERN PRINTING (At Home (A4/Letter) / Copy Shop (A0) / Projector)
At Home (A4/Letter) :
When printing the pattern at home, we offer two versions:
1. Standard Version (24 pages) – Includes all pattern pieces with notches clearly marked.
2. Paper-Saving Option – Provides all measurements instead of full pattern pieces. This option saves time, paper, and resources, but may be trickier to follow when placing notches.
For your convenience, layer options for each size are included in the pattern, allowing you to print your specific size only. Please ensure that your printer settings are adjusted to a scale of 100% or set to ‘Actual Size’ for accurate printing.
When printing, set the page orientation to Automatic or Landscape. The pattern is drafted in landscape format.
A0 (Copy Shop) Option / Projector Option
We offer both A0 (Copy Shop) and Projector options. You can find the files in their respective folders. For your convenience, layer options for each size are included in the pattern.
