Pattern Description: An Easy to Sew top in two lengths with neckline variations and tie belt. I made the drape-front variation with cut-in cap sleeves (not true sleeves, but they extend over the shoulder).
This is an edited review, since I have now made four of these tops.
Pattern Sizing: I cut a 16, which was the top size on my pattern.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes it did.
Were the instructions easy to follow? I really did read the instructions this time! Yay. Step-by-step even!! I thought the instructions were good, although I did alter step 17 a little, as it was tricky with my fabric to finish the yoke outside piece totally with top stitching. After sewing on the inside yoke piece as per instructions, I pulled the outside piece through and folded over the shoulder seams to the back and stitched over that seam again, so that I only had to top-stitch the bottom part of the yoke, which would be the back yoke. A picture would have explained this better, but unfortunately I didn't take one.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
LIKES?
1. The pattern pieces for this view are designed to be cut on the bias of a woven fabric. That's what I had been considering doing to this fabric, possibly with a knit pattern, until I found this pattern in my little stash, and, Lo and Behold, it called for woven fabric, cut on the bias!
2. By cutting a size smaller I got a great fit, right out of the envelope! For me this is totally amazing! Fit is my biggest struggle these days.
3. The three pleats on each shoulder seam.
4. The drape front is not too low for me! Edit: After sewing four of these tops, I realized (finally!!) that the reason it is not too low for my taste, is that I was matching the seams on the yoke, and not the notches for front and back.
5. This top is very versatile for me. I used lightweight fabric, and am able to wear them in these colder months, too, under a cardi, which gives me my preferred lightweight layers.
DISLIKES? None.
Fabric Used: Black Graphic Rayon Challis from Fabric Mart, Tan Rayon Challis (a serendipity find from Walmart), Black Knit Rayon and Gray Rayon Knit from Fabric.com.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I actually made quite a few minor adjustments to the pattern, and am editing these in, now that I have sewn four tops from this pattern.
Several reviewers had commented that this pattern has a lot of ease, so I kept that in mind, and cut out a size smaller than my usual size. According to my measurements I am an 18 with FBA , also I usually lengthen the bodice on my patterns by at least an inch. I made none of these adjustments. Just cut out a 16, and sewed it up, and it fit great! Right out of the envelope!!! YEAH!!
French seams for the side seams on the rayon challis because it does fray.
On the two very light-weight knits, I did put some ruching along the side-seams using a strip of very lightweight tricot interfacing. I also did not cut these on the bias as that is not necessary (less fabric needed, too, only one yard that way.)
I did not use interfacing in the yoke. But I did reinforce the back neckline with a strip of tricot interfacing like this. For me that would be too much thickness and defeat the purpose of using lightweight fabric, especially if I am wearing it in the summer.
The directions call for you to fold the tucks on the front and attach them to the yoke in the seam. I actually sewed them down on each top about an inch lower than the seam
I also made what I call an almost-hanky-hem on the front drape at the neckline, as well as the sleeves and hem. And this turned out great (IMO). Some time ago I had watched Louise Cutting's tutorial on Threads Industry Insider Techniques, Hem Sheers With Ease. Now's when I used it. The key to making this rolled hem without the special foot, is to trim back close to the stitching line after sewing the 1/16 inch step, then just roll it again tight and stitch. I didn't do all of the rows of stitching she calls for, since I didn't so much need a weighted hem, just "the look". Neither did I do all the pressing, cuz I'm too lazy, I admit, but it turned out nice anyway. Again, just my opinion ;).
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, even though I have sewn four of these tops, I will probably use this pattern again.
Conclusion: These seems like a very long review for such a simple top. For me, sometimes the simplest things are the best. |
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Really like this top. I purchased the same fabric from FM. Nice use of this fabric.
9/26/12 5:32 AM
Very pretty fabric, love your top!! I have this pattern in my stash too and have to dig it out. Very pretty and sounds like a perfect fit for you!
9/26/12 10:22 AM
That *is* one great top! Good job!
9/26/12 11:18 AM
That is my favorite summer top pattern. Your fabric choice is really classy looking!
9/26/12 1:58 PM
your blouse is beautiful!
9/29/12 9:48 AM
Lovely top!
10/1/12 12:42 PM
Thank you for your really nice comments!
10/3/12 11:30 PM
All great tops. I'm not familiar with this pattern so thank you for reviewing it.
2/26/13 7:21 AM
You do have the perfect fit and look from this pattern. Thanks for showing all your tops!
2/26/13 9:51 AM
Great looking top - have the pattern but not used yet am sure it will be a really nice addition to your (and my) closets
2/26/13 6:38 PM
Your top turned out beautifully! Now I definitely have to get this pattern! Thank you so much for the detailed review.
2/28/13 9:21 PM
Thanks for the review-I was looking for a top to make out of a woven that wasn't a button front! I will follow your tip about the tricot yoke reinforcement. Love the fabrics, too.
4/8/13 1:03 AM