Tutorial-Continuous Lap

I wanted to share the process I use for creating a continuous lap in a girl's dress.  I use this method because it is sturdy for everyday wear.  This continuous lap will be in a dress with a gathered skirt attached to a yoke.

Once all of your pattern pieces are cut out, cut a piece of fabric approximately 3 x 10 inches.

Fold this piece in half lengthwise and press.

Fold the skirt piece in half matching the armholes.

Fold the lap piece in half and lay it on top of the skirt on the fold.

Draw a line marking the end of the lap.

Draw a line along the fold from the top to your previous marking.

You are now going to stitch a 'V' starting at the top, and 1/4 inch from the center line-sew in a slight diagonal to the cross line you drew.  Take 1 stitch on the bottom of the 'V' and pivot to complete the other side.

Now snip down the center line, all the way to the point, being careful not to snip your thread.

This is what your skirt will look like

Match the raw edges of the lap piece to the raw edges of the 'V' you just made (right sides together).  This is easier to do if you put the lap piece on the bottom and the skirt on the top. Stitch just outside your previous stitching.

Be careful as you get to the point of the 'V' not to catch any additional fabric in your stitches.

Stitch all the way around the 'V'. Snip the inside of the 'V' at the point.

Press the continuous lap open.

Then pull the folded edge to the wrong side, over the seam, and press again.

Stitch the folded edge to cover the stitching.

Fold the lap in half and sew a diagonal line across the bottom.  This is for reinforcing.

That is it, your continuous lap is finished.  Fold under the right side and baste across the top.

I have found this process to be a much easier way of creating a continuous lap and, because it is machine stitched, it will stay together better and last longer.  Hope this helps you.