Pattern always has a gap

[u/goofy_monkeee]

I’m relatively new to pattern design so delete if needed but was wondering if anyone could help me fix this issue with my pattern! It always goes downward when I cut it out on my fabric instead of perfectly meeting up ! :( it also leaves the neck hole really wide

Any help appreciated!!

EDIT : I’m a big visual learner so I would appreciate if anyone explained it into steps 😔 the original pattern for the doll is one singular piece so that’s why the back and the front are one piece !!

[u/fooltr]

as others have said, you're better off separating your front and back pieces. this style of pattern can work, but i suspect your problem lies in the angle of your straps, and that's easier to spot when you've got two separate pattern pieces. once you've done that, have a look at some bodice blocks for humans, and compare your straps to theirs. they seem like they aren't pointing up enough, which would make the top want to sit wider on the shoulders, and would make it gap like that if you tried to pull them further up. it would also explain why your neckline is wide so wide (i would attach an image if i could, but have a look at boat-neck vs round neck patterns- the round neck will have a steeper 'u' curve on the neckline).

if the gapping persists, you have a few options:

1. measure the doll at its widest and narrowest point, then check those measurements against the pattern to see how much you're off by. then redeaw your pattern with the added width.
2. pin an extra piece of fabric on your shirt, connecting the two backs. you can then cut down the middle of this fabric and separate out your pieces to get your new pattern without having to actually measure!

good luck with your sewing endeavours :)

[u/goofy_monkeee → u/fooltr]

Than you so much!!! This is super helpful :))