Vintage Surplice with Gathers Sewing Pattern

Beginner-Friendly Church Vestment Pattern

The gathered surplice has long held a place in the attire of clergy and choirs, tracing its roots to the late medieval period when its ample folds symbolized dignity and service. 

Traditionally worn over cassocks, the surplice became a standard part of Anglican and Roman Catholic worship attire, often tailored with fullness and graceful drape to reflect the solemnity of the liturgy.

Vintage Surplice with Gathers printed sewing pattern provides detailed guidance for creating a traditional round yoke cotta, suitable for altar servers and clergy. 

With origins in historic liturgical design, the garment features a softly gathered skirt and sleeve, attached to a modest round yoke, producing a full yet dignified silhouette

It includes professional instructions for traditional construction techniques, along with thoughtful markings and adjustment lines to ensure a well-proportioned fit from size S to 3XL.

Whether for parish use, choir, or clergy, the sewing pattern reflects the quiet beauty and reverence that define its place in the liturgy.

Product Features

• Traditional gathered surplice with round yoke

• Adjustable length options for both garment and sleeves

• Suitable for light to medium weight woven fabrics

• Comprehensive sizing from Adult S to Adult 3XL

• Instructions include hand-finishing techniques used in historical vestment-making

Skill Level

• This pattern is suitable for those new to vestment sewing as well as for experienced seamstress.

Recommended Fabrics

Suggested fabrics:

• Broadcloth, Poplin, linen, or other plain weave fabrics.

• 108” wide fabric is recommended. 60”wide fabric would work for sizes S and M, however an additional yard will be needed.

 Note: Pattern is not suitable for knits or fabrics with Lycra/stretch content.

Underlining:

• Lightweight cotton broadcloth or similar non-fusible fabrics
• Fusible interfacing is not recommended, as it may stiffen the garment inappropriately.

Fabric Yardage Chart 

Surplice Measurement Chart 

What You'll Receive

• Full-size paper pattern has five separate pieces, one for each part of the surplice:  front, back, sleeve, front yoke, and back yoke

• Step-by-step printed sewing instructions
  

• Adjustment lines for skirt and sleeve length

• Guidance for cutting, construction, and finishing

Important Note 

Sewing patterns are not returnable per the Return policy. Please read all product details carefully to understand that this is a sewing pattern and not a completed garment.

Pattern FAQ's 

What is the pattern printed on?

The pattern is printed on white paper.  For those who wish to use something a bit less stiff, you may prefer to trace the pattern onto a lighter-weight Pellon pattern interfacing paper.

Why is the pattern printed on white paper?

There are limited paper options available for small pattern companies to keep production minimums low and costs affordable for clients. The patterns are printed locally in small quantities as needed. The available paper that is large enough for use with our full-size patterns for use while still allowing for small print runs is white blueprint paper.

Can the wrinkles be pressed out of the pattern by ironing?

It is NOT recommended to use anything hot to press the pattern paper. The patterns are printed with toner ink and they will smudge and leave black marks on other surfaces if the pattern is ironed. Simple smooth the pattern out by hand prior to cutting. If you prefer, the pattern may also be traced off on Pellon Pattern interfacing to preserve the original.

Is the pattern available as a digital download file?

The patterns are NOT available as a digital download file. They are a physical product that requires shipping.

Are the patterns sold to clients the same patterns used by Ecclesiastical Sewing?

Yes. We use the very same patterns that are available online in our workrooms for creating beautiful vestments.

May I make a copy of the pattern in my plotter or save a digital copy of this pattern?

The pattern is copyrighted and is offered as a courtesy for use in the church to the Glory of God. The pattern may NOT be copied or saved in any digital format, resold, modified, and sold as an original work, etc.

For private use only. Not intended for commercial use

Vestment and Stole Care Guide

Explore our vintage ecclesiastical book collection.

Looking for more sewing patterns? Use the quick links to explore our full Church Vestment Sewing Pattern Catalog

For additional information, sewing tips, and inspiration, visit blog.ecclesiasticalsewing.com