Cynthia Guffey Patterns: T-2009 (Princess seam top) - Type:Tops  | | Viewed 147 times
| 1 more reviews | Review rated Helpful by 1 people Very Helpful by 2 people | | Reviewed by: | CMae | 
 | | About CMae | | Member since: 9/30/11 | | Reviews written: 8 | | patterns reviewed: 8 | | |
| | Posted on: | 12/27/12 5:40 PM | | Project Photo: |  | | Pattern Photo: | Pattern Info provided by CMae | | Pattern Rating: | Highly Recommend | | | | Fabric: | Silk Dupioni [See other projects in this fabric] | | Related Links | Click on  to add a link |
| Pattern Description:
From Cynthia's web site: Princess seamlines originate at shoulders----long, short, cap sleeve versions------two neckline versions----center back zipper.
Pattern Sizing:
1,2,3 - only three sizes. I made a size 1, and I am generally a size 12 in the big name pattern brands.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
yes, better because the pattern envelope is only a sketch. I saw her in this shirt at a sewing expo and thought it was beautiful, so I knew this pattern had potential.
Were the instructions easy to follow?
Instructions were ok, basically just hand written instructions- no frills. There are no helpful hints if you don't know how to do something - such as inserting a zipper which is required for this pattern. I don't think patterns are Cynthia's focus as a business, the instructions are bare bones. I would not recommend this pattern to a beginner.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I was very nervous to try this pattern given the lack of illustrations or typical help found in nstructions. Given the small number of pieces, the pattern came together easily and I love the unique cowl neckline made for a woven fabric.
I wish Cynthia had included a picture of how to close the cowl neck in the back of the garment. The instructions just say to close with snaps- a little more detail would have been helpful.
Fabric Used:
Silk Dupioni
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
Since there were only three sizes for this pattern - I knew it would require some fitting. The princess seams made it very easy to fit the top for a more flattering close fit.
Cynthia included pattern pieces for a facing that attaches to the neckline, but I eliminated this step. It may help to create a more finished neckline - but I thought the facing could get in the way and prove to be more annoying than helpful. Instead, I serged the cowl to the neckline and then understiched the seam flat to the neckline.
I used an invisible zipper to close the back of the garment - it was quick to install and looks professional.
The cowl neck is a bit generous. If I make this shirt again, I will decrease the width of the cowl by at least a couple of inches.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes, I can see having this cowl neck blouse in different sleeve lengths.
The neckline and princess lines are flattering.
Conclusion:
Unique, sophisticated top. The appearance of this pattern scared me off for a while - hand drawn pattern and hand written instructions - but it came together easily. More info on my blog Sew Carrie
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3 Comments
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How beautiful; I just bought the pattern! Thanks for introducing me to this.
12/27/12 9:02 PM
Very nice. I, too, have seen Cynthia in this top. The cowl she had on with it was a softer and more drapey fabric- that is probably why you find it too wide. I wonder if she pre-washed her dupioni?
12/28/12 8:50 AM
Your shell is just gorgeous - pairing the color turquoise with silk dupioni is my idea of perfection! I have never seen Cynthia's garments and without having seen the finished item I would have passed this pattern by (based on the sketch). Thanks for the review - I'll be looking for her at sewing shows and will examine the finished sample garments. You are right - photos would help sell the patterns and enlighten the consumer. But this top is very cute!
12/28/12 2:36 PM