Since a few of you asked the last time I made this top, I'll show you how I did it:
First, find a roomy top pattern that you like. Cut it out, and cut two of the top front. Find a nursing top you already have and like, or measure approimately how much shorter you want the overlay than the underlayer. Some RTW are nearly the same length, and I have seen some where the overlay is just barely long enough to cover your boobs (and the nursing slits).
When you have the pieces all cut out, decide where you want the nursing openings and cut them as slits. You'll want to start fairly high up, even if you're pretty saggy (like me!). So you'll start fairly close to the shoulder seam, maybe 2 or three inches below. I prefer to have the openings slightly to the side of my breast rather than right over the nipple, otherwise your boobs will always be poking right through the slit, keeping it open. Cut the slits and then hold the front up to your chest and try them, enlarging if necessary. Then finish the edges so they do not ravel or curl. I just serged mine, but you could zig-zag, narrow hem, bind (with tape, self binding, FOE) or whatever. Less bulk on this edge is better and not so noticeable.
Then I stitched (serge, zig-zag or straight) the two front pieces together both right sides up. I usually do the arm hole, shoulder seam and neck. This is just to keep them lined up while you assemble the garment. Pins might be sufficient too.
So this is what it looks like, from the wrong side so you can see the nursing slits:
Then I finished the hem on the overlayer only. I used lettuce edge, but you can do any hem you like. Looks like this:
From there, you just assemble and sew your garment according to your pattern or usual method. I did the shoulder seams, neck (binding or facing) and the sleeves, and then the sides and bottom hem. If you sew the overlayer in the entire length of the side seam like I did, a few things to keep in mind: It will work better if:
*your pattern/fit is slightly oversized and/or
*you are using a knit fabric and/or
*your overlayer isn't too long/low
I sewed the overlayer all the way down the side seam, but if you wanted you could do it like some RTW by finishing the side seam of the overlayer and not catching it in with the front and back side seam from sleeve on down. Then you would need a button to tack it down. I am practically unconcious when I bf at night, so I don't do buttons or anything like that.
The last thing you do it finish the bottom hem and you are done! I am not much of a horizontal nursing shirt type mama (I don't care for the style) but I love it for nursing at night so my tummy stays covered, 'specially in winter. It is nice to be able to adapt your favorite pattern so easily.
editing out sig
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