I made the shirred turtleneck version of this pattern a few years ago, and remembered how much I liked the first in the body and sleeves and thought it'd do well for running. Bonus points to Previous Me for tracing out the raglan front piece at the same time I traced the shirred version pieces!
Pattern Description:
"Shirred Turtleneck/Raglan Tee: This top has long raglan sleeves and shirred yoke. It is designed to be close-fitting so that the bodice gathers will stretch tight vertically. The pattern also includes an alternative front pattern piece for a smooth and simple raglan top. "
Pattern Sizing:
Multi-sized 4-22. I made the 14 and the fit is close and snug, exactly what I wanted for a running top.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
There are no photos or illustration for this view, but it looks like the tech drawing when you take my changes into consideration.
Were the instructions easy to follow?
To be honest, I didn't even look at them. I could construct a basic raglan top in my sleep, but from my memory of the shirred turtleneck, the instructions were very good.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I needed a close-fitting, long sleeved top with raglan sleeves and a short but high collar to wear for winter running, that I could layer underneath other tops or also wear on its own. (Photos)
This pattern did all those things, plus I knew the fit was good as it shares 80% of the pattern pieces with the shirred turtleneck version.
Fabric Used:
Eggplant Suziplex from Suzi Spandex in Montreal. I bought 2m when I was in Montreal in March - half of it became running leggings (which I then ran my first marathon in!), and the majority of the remainder became this top.
I cannot say enough great things about Suziplex - I love regular supplex for exercise gear, but this stuff is in an entirely different league! It's got a smooth exterior and brushed interior, wicks moisture away, is VERY stretchy, and is suitable for both tops and bottoms. It's ridiculously comfortable to wear, and stays in place while you move. No matter how much is in my stash, I wish I had more!
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
The Christine Jonson pattern is intended for regular wear, but is pretty much perfect for winter running as is, with the close fit and minimalist seaming. My only real changes were to decrease the height of the collar (I just used half of the turtleneck pattern piece), and to experiment and add a "sleeve mitt" onto the ends of the sleeves. (Photos)
This is a feature that I've seen on RTW running tops, where the top of the sleeve folds over and creates a little mitt to keep your hands warm while you run, without the need to carry gloves along (gloves are annoying as you usually only need them for the first five minutes until you warm up, then you're stuck carrying them for the whole run).
(See photos and my pattern piece alterations for the sleeve mitt)
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
YES to both counts - this is no my "go-to" pattern for long sleeved running tops! Quick, easy, and extremely functional - exactly what you need!
Conclusion:
I made this top to pair with my running crew's vest and some special "disco leggings" I'd made to wear to my first cross country race, to help us stand out from the sea of short shorts and club vests from Proper Running Clubs. It was a VERY muddy course and everything performed well, and the mud washed right out!
To see way more muddy photos plus details of the disco leggings, head over to FehrTrade.com!
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Great running gear. I looked at the Suzieplex site and keep hearing about it. Do you know if it's sold anywhere online to customers who aren't buying in bulk?
12/18/12 12:34 PM
MNBarb - they sell retail amounts, I've bought as little as 1 metre. Give them a ring to order.
12/18/12 12:55 PM
I love your sleeve idea for keeping the fingers warm at the start of a run. I'll be borrowing that idea!
12/18/12 9:15 PM
Love your disco pants.... you go girl!!
12/18/12 9:16 PM
Perfect pattern for running gear and for casual dress. I do love the sleeve idea. It's nice to have a TNT pattern!
12/19/12 9:41 AM