Yet another Renfrew for the files... 
Pattern Description:
A fitted knit top with sleeve and neckline variations. View A has long sleeves and a scoop neckline. View B has short sleeves and a deep V neckline. View C has a dramatic cowl neckline and three-quarter length sleeves. Mix and match any of the sleeves with any of the neckline options for unlimited possibilities!
Pattern Sizing:
0-16. This pattern line is intended for pear-shaped ladies. I'm an hourglass, so I cut a 10 for the bust and sleeve and an 8 for the hip (based on the chart, I'm a 6 in the hip, but I thought going 2 sizes down for the hip might produce an odd looking T).
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes, absolutely!
Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes, they were stellar. Great instructions, informative line drawings.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I really love the sleeve and hem bands (I am not a fan of hemming knits!) and the treatment of the neckline, which produces a very professional look. I also love that I can sew it all up in less than an hour.
I was really displeased at first with the wrinkles coming from the underarm, but after a bunch of reading around found out it was a common issue. To help make the garment more comfortable, I made a pattern alteration (see below) which helped this problem a little. Once I paid attention, I started noticing I have the same sort of "pit whiskers" in my RTW Ts, so I think it's just my body shape.
Also, since it's a knit, I wish the pattern used 1/4" seam allowances, but I also understand the designer's desire to keep all of the SAs on her patterns consistent.
Fabric Used:
I made 3 different versions, two with more stable knits (as prescribed by the pattern) and one with a jersey (content unknown - I'm guessing it could be rayon or cotton or a blend of both). I wasn't as pleased with the fit with the first two fabrics (green w/black trim) and cotton/spandex jersey (hot pink).
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
The sleeve was really kind of getting up in my armpit, so I lowered the armhole 1/2" and raised the underarm portion of the sleeve cap by 1/2" to make up the difference.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes, and yes! I will definitely be whipping up some V necks in the near future.
Conclusion:
This is a great basic T - a spectacular wardrobe builder. |
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Love all of your versions of this! I can definitely see a difference in your last version. I guess fit is something I need to work on as well, but like you pointed out a lot of my RTW tops/tees fit like that near the underarm area so I really don't worry about it. This is a great pattern!
2/18/13 1:38 PM
This seems to be a magic pattern for many people! Yours looks great.
2/18/13 3:23 PM
Winner!
2/18/13 6:29 PM
You did it!!! Great fit and great perserverence in getting there. You've definitely got a TNT now - have fun with all the different necklines, sleeves, etc! I laughed at the comment on your blog that you discovered your RTW tees have pit whiskers too - we are so critical of our own creations, aren't we?
2/19/13 2:52 PM