Pattern Description: Semi-fitted, pullover top has sleeve and hem variations.
Pattern Sizing: XS - XXL
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? yes
Were the instructions easy to follow? yes
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like just about everything!
I sewed view C, which has cuffed sleeves and a long curved hem. Batwing sleeves are so trendy, and these have just the right amount of 'wing', so that the top does not begin to look like a caftan or kimono. IMO the dropped back hemline is super cute as well (and also 'on trend' in recent collections). The long curved seams in front and back worked very well for me - I usually do a FBA, so I just moved the bust apex curve down a couple inches. Worked fine. The pattern pieces fit together very nicely, always a big plus and one reason I really enjoy sewing Vogue patterns.
One caution: the pattern is rated Very Easy. Not sure I agree with that, if one wants to do any fitting. It is intended for 2-way stretch fabric with spandex and is apparently meant to be close to the body. The view I sewed, C, is very narrow through the hips and the forearm cuff and I'm not! I spent a bit of time fitting the tissue and altering it to avoid a clingy result.
I did not like the suggested narrow hem at the neckline (seldom do, the result is almost never satisfactory!). And a lot of the reviews on PR mentioned issues with a very wide and/or wavy neckline. Forewarned (thank you!), I used Sarah Veblen's knit neckband tutorial to apply a neckband instead. She makes it really easy, and I like the result.
Fabric Used: Loose knit french terry from Fabric.com.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: Aside from the FBA curve change and neckband, I made a few alterations to accomodate my fabric and my intention to wear the top with leggings:
(1) The cuff - I really like the slim cuff but wanted a shorter one. Mine is 3 1/2" long, drafted from the top 4 1/2" of the cuff pattern. Hats off to Robyn, at Sew Love Red - I used her tip to cut the cuff on the fold, double it back, and attach it as a band would be attached. Such a nice finish for the sleeve. Caution: the cuff is very slim - measure the pattern against your forearm!
(2) I cannot find the reference but some wonderful blogger noted that the bottom of the front on this version came right at/above the crotch of her jeans - which she did not like. Out with the measuring tape - sure enough, that's where it would hit. So I added 2" to the length of both the front and back, using the 'lengthen/shorten' line on the pattern.
(3) Many folks found this top to run big, but it must be a spandex, stretchy fabric thing. I sewed my usual Vogue medium (12-14), which is for a 38" hip. The pattern has only 2" of ease at the hip! So I added to the side seams. I actually started the addition about 2" into the sleeve, beginning with 3/8", moving down and increasing to 1" below the waistline. Worked great, the top has just the right amount of hug for me
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes and yes!
Conclusion: This top is so comfy and easy to wear. Chic alternative to tshirts and sweatshirts. More on my blog!
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Great top! Thanks for all of the additional fitting tips, I will keep them in mind and most likely use them the next time I make this great pattern!
1/9/13 11:39 AM
Oh, I really like this on you!
1/9/13 2:14 PM
This is adorable on you! Beautiful work and great finishing.
1/9/13 3:48 PM
I love your version! I just bought this pattern so thanks for all the extra tips!
1/9/13 5:46 PM
I like your top! I've got this pattern and will keep your excellant review in mind. Thank you.
1/9/13 5:57 PM
What a cute top! All of your changes look great.
1/9/13 10:30 PM
Totally agree with your conclusion of it's a 'chic alternative'--I really like it!!!
1/10/13 10:46 AM
Thank you all, such nice compliments :-)
1/11/13 10:09 AM