Pattern Description: Coordinated set of short sleeved top, 3/4 sleeved top, 6 gored skirt, wide leg trousers and belted cardigan. Suitable for knits only. Pattern rated "easy".
Pattern Sizing: Multi sized pattern (10,12,14,16,18,20,22) I made a size 12 skirt and size 12 short sleeved top.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? The skirt did. The top is a whole different story. Mostly due to my inexperience with knits, rather than the fault of the pattern.
Were the instructions easy to follow? The instructions were very clear and easy to follow.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love the versatility of this pattern. So many looks could be achieved from casual to dressy, simply by choice of fabric. The skirt and top are great basics for any wardrobe. I love the shape of the skirt, how it is fitted around the hips and then flares out to create a real girly feel. Although I had some issues with the top, it has a lovely fitted shape and I am sure I will be trying this one again in a more suitable fabric.
Fabric Used: The fabrics used were given to me by an elderly friend of my mothers who was moving house and culling her fabric stash. The skirt was quite a stable cotton jersey, which was very easy to sew. The top was a fine jersey knit (not sure of its composition) which was very stretchy with poor recovery. This is what caused all my issues with the top.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: Top: When I overlocked the neck band onto the neckline it stretched way out of shape. Rather than unpick all that overlocking, I simply cut the band and seam allowance off the neckline and started again, using a wider band to compensate for the removal of the seam allowance. I also sewed this on with a straight stitch on my sewing machine rather than risk using the overlocker again.This was an improvement but it still gaped at the centre front. To fix this issue I sewed a "V" shape in the centre front of the neckband. This gave the neckline almost a sweetheart shape, but it did cause a bubble just below the neckband at the front. Neckline I also took in the side seams at the bottom of the top tapering to the waistline. There was too much ease here. Skirt: The instructions say that the skirt is to be worn 1 - 1 & 1/2" (3.8cm) below the waist. I found this to be very uncomfortable and it made the skirt way too long. Even after using 1" non roll elastic at the waistline, and wearing it on my waist, I still had to fold the waist elastic over to achieve the correct length.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I will definitely be sewing this one again. I have already purchased two pieces of cotton jersey in navy and white for two more tops. I will also be making the skirt again when I find some suitable fabric.
Conclusion: I just love this pattern because you get quite a lot included in the one pattern envelope. The top and skirt are a lovely shape which follow your curves and are flattering (not boxy at all).
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Great save on the neckline! I like the skirt and top. I have this pattern but have never sewed it. We are in winter right now but may try a set like yours next summer.
1/6/13 7:09 AM
Agreed. That was a great save on the neckline. I do like this neckline better than the pattern.
1/6/13 8:57 AM
Great save on the top - outfit looks really lovely. This is one of my favourite patterns - so versatile
1/6/13 11:20 AM
I agree on the neckline, too. It really looks nice and also love the color. A very pretty outfit.
1/6/13 12:15 PM
this is my absolute all time favourite, most used, go-to pattern for knits! mostly the t-shirt pattern, I have lost count of how many times I've made this up & have used it as a base for many many variations..... your version looks lovely & I like how you saved your neckline disaster. keep sewing with this pattern & you'll soon be the queen of knits!
1/6/13 10:35 PM
Your top looks great with the wider band & sweetheart neck. Love the skirt too! I've made all the pieces from this pattern & love it. The cardigan is great as a jacket without the tie.
1/29/13 4:43 AM
Great outfit. The neckline really adds to the look. What a wonderful mistake :). Outfit is very flattering.
3/6/13 2:54 AM