I’m really excited about the newest pattern to release from Made for Mermaids! Lea is a Dolman sleeve tunic, dress, or romper pattern. Dolman’s are notoriously easy to sew because the sleeves are not a separate piece. I’m here to show you how you can add even more options to your Lea pattern by mashing it with the Ella pattern!

I decided to use the tie front top option from Ella to mash with the Lea Dolman top. I knew my daughter would love the ties!

Here’s what you’ll need:

–Lea bodice pattern (front and back)

–Ella pattern (front and back)

First, cut out both patterns in the same size. If you need to mash sizes, that’s fine! Then place the Lea pattern on top of the Ella pattern, lining up the edge you cut on the fold, and the shoulder seam. Trace around the neck and sleeve of the Lea pattern, and then make a line from the bottom curve of the Lea sleeve to meet the bottom hem of the Ella pattern. Do this for the front and back pattern pieces. I’ve made a picture of what this should look like.

Now follow the Lea tutorial for sewing the neck, sleeves, and side seams. And then you’re done! Super fun and easy!

I also decided to make a second version, but wanted to change it up just a little bit. I thought a high-low top would be fun. I’m always on the lookout for tops my girls can wear with leggings, because that seems to be their pant of choice.

All I did for this version was to cut off the ties from the front pattern piece. Make sure you start 1/2″ in from the edge to account for the seam allowance, then draw a curved line slightly up to the middle. You will use the same back pattern piece you used to make the tie version, because it already curves down in the back.

You’ll sew the neck, sleeves and side seams following the Lea tutorial. Because this is a loose weave sweater knit, I added clear elastic to the neckline.

Then to add a little more length (and so I didn’t have to hem 😉 ) I added a band to the bottom. After it is sewn, measure around the bottom edge of your top.

Mine measured 33″ around, then I added 1/2″ to each side for the seam allowance. So I cut out a piece that was 34″x6″. Sew it into a circle, right sides together. Fold it into itself, wrong sides together, then attach it to your top, right sides together. You should not have to stretch it to fit. Make sure you press your seam up after you sew it for a professional finish!

I hope you all have fun creating some Lea + Ella mashes! Don’t forget to share them in the facebook group. You can follow the same process for the Mama versions of these patterns too!

Liesel loves sewing for her four children, scoring deals at the thrift store, and drinking coffee. She shares her sewing creations at It’s Liesel.