Roman Yoke Surplice with Lace Hem | Beginner-Friendly Vestment Sewing Pattern

This Square Yoke Roman Surplice Sewing Pattern is a trusted favorite among those who sew for the Church.

Designed not only for fit and finish, but also for reverence, this pattern is rooted in traditional liturgical form, drawing on centuries of use within sacred tradition.

You don’t need prior experience in vestment making to sew something sacred. What you need is a clear pattern, thoughtful details, and a pattern that honors the meaning behind the garment.

This full-size printed pattern features a classic square yoke, full sleeves, deep front and back pleats, and two length options. It also includes placement guides for optional lace inserts, along with instructions suited for beginners through seasoned sewists.

If you’re ready to offer your skills in service of the liturgy, this is a beautiful place to begin.

Product Features

• Two-piece square yoke with an attached skirt

• Adorned with four pleats on both front and back

• Full sleeves and decorative lace hem 

• A flat center front provides placement for an optional cross embellishment.

• The lace hem surplice pattern is available in two lengths with the lace hem at the knees and a floor-length garment.

• Lace details have been added to the hem of this traditional square yoke surplice sewing pattern.

Skill Level

Confident Beginner to Professional

Whether you're just stepping into liturgical sewing or have years of experience, this pattern offers approachable instructions and a construction style that supports a beautiful, professional finish.

Fabric and Yardage Recommendation

Suitable Fabrics:

• Carlisle Fabric or
• White Portsmouth Poplin fabric.

Other suitable fabrics:

• Linen or other plain weave fabrics.
• Underlining: 2/3 yard of lightweight cotton broadcloth

Note: The underlining can be a lightweight cotton broadcloth or other similar fabric. Use of fusible interfacing in place of underlining is not recommended, as the interfacing may stiffen fabric.

Sizes for Clergy Surplice 

• Youth Small/Medium Knee Length 4007K
  
• Youth Small/Medium Full Length 4007F
• Adult Small/Medium/Large Knee Length 4008K 
  
• Adult Small/Medium/Large Full-Length 4008F
• Adult X-Large/XXL/XXXL Knee Length 4009K
  
• Adult X-Large/XXL/XXXL Full Length 4009F

Knee Length (4007K-4009K) Yardages Table

Knee Length Surplice

Full Length (4007F-4009F) Yardages Table

Full Length Surplice Measurements

Adjustments for sleeve length or hem length can be made by adding to or shortening the hemline.

What You'll Receive

• Complete pattern with all pieces

• Detailed instructions with illustrations

• Size chart with measurements for proper fitting

• Comprehensive fabric layout diagrams

• Lengthen/shorten lines for custom fitting

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

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