Everyday Neck & Wrist Frills

Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Sew Neck & Wrist Frills

No pattern needed - just simple rectangles

These soft gathered frills are the perfect finishing touch for jumpers and dresses. They’re quick to sew, beginner-friendly, and can be made from any lightweight woven fabric like linen or cotton.

The best part? You only need rectangles - no printed pattern required.

Follow the step-by-step instructions below to sew your neck frill and matching wrist frills.

If you’re new to sewing, this project pairs perfectly with my Simple Sewing Guide.

Remember to tag me in your beautiful creations on Instagram @sewingwitholive 

YOU WILL NEED:

• Neck frill rectangle: 66 cm × 26 cm

• Wrist frill rectangles (cut 2): 30 cm × 18 cm

• Lightweight woven fabric (linen, cotton, or similar)

• Narrow elastic for the channels ( I used 2cm)

• Matching thread

NOTES

• Seam allowance is 1 cm unless otherwise stated.

• For the folded hems that create the elastic channels, follow the specific fold measurements in the steps (6 cm for the neck, 4 cm for the wrists).

• For the best fit, measure your elastic directly around your own neck and wrists - snug but comfortable - before cutting it.

• This project is simple, beginner-friendly, and easy to customise by adjusting the height or fullness of the frills.

NECK BAND

Step #1

Fold and press the long edges: fold 1 cm and press.

Step #2

On the long edges fold again so the top is folded 6 cm and the bottom is folded 1 cm. Press.

Step #3

Stitch the bottom 1 cm fold close to the edge.

Step #4

Stitch the 6 cm fold close to its edge.

Step #5

From that stitched edge, measure 3 cm inward and sew a second line parallel to the first (this creates the elastic channel). Leave a 2 cm opening in this line to insert the elastic later.

Step #6

With right sides together, sew the short ends with a 2 cm seam allowance to make a loop.

Step #7

Fold the seam allowance: fold it under 1 cm, then under 1 cm again to hide the raw edge, press and edge-stitch to finish.

Step #8

Thread the elastic through the channel, adjust fit, then close the 2 cm gap with a straight stitch.

WRIST BANDS

Step #9

Repeat the same process as the neck band, but fold the top hem by 4 cm instead of 6 cm. All other steps are the same.

Take a look at my Neck & Wrist Frills

These little frills are such a simple way to elevate any top, jumper or dress. You can see my frill reel on Instagram, and if you love easy, beginner-friendly sewing, you’ll find lots more tutorials on my page.

And don’t forget to share your beautiful makes with me @sewingwitholive 💛