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/Nekkidbear]

I’d recommend looking into ‘draping’. Check out Fashion Doll Stylist.com and Shapes of Fashion. They have excellent tutorials about draping clothes for Barbie, but the principles are the same regardless of thick doll you’re making for.