I just took a class on this! Press the center fold in down the front and stitch all each edge of the fold before you cut! This eliminates stretching. We also stitched just about the bottom band before cutting it off. Use fusible interfacing on your bands, ours were 4.5 inches wide for the front band and folded over equally, the neck band was left on but turned down into the front band. We also put piping along the bands, front and hip. I have about 4 to make as gifts. Oh, and I embroidered a design on the upper right shoulder area. Good luck, you can do this!
Michelle