Pattern Description: T-shirt pattern with oversized sleeves, v-neck, and fitted waist.
Pattern Sizing: Burda sizes 34-42. I traced at 38 at the neck opening, a 40 for the shoulders through the waist, and graded out to a 42 at the hips. Typically I makes a size 40 Burda, but I have noticed that I tend to have gaping on the back of the neck, so I thought it would be good to try using a 38 neck opening and I have to say I think the fit is superb! I am going to have to use this trick more in the future.
Were the instructions easy to follow? I read them and they seem pretty good for Burda. I mean, there isn't anything too complicated about this pattern, but since Burda made it in a mohair, they have a lot of instructions for hemming and seam finishes that I ignored. I basically made the whole thing on my serger, and did a narrow hem for all of the openings.
Did it look like the photo/drawing when you were done with it? Yes, pretty much. I added a bit of length (just because I like long tops) but other than that it looks pretty similar to the line drawing.
What did you particularly like or dislike about this pattern? Likes: This is a very easy pattern to make! Only two pattern pieces to trace, only four seams to sew. I also like that while the sleeves give the top an oversized easy look, there is a nice fit to the waist area that prevents the top from being too baggy. Dislikes: Well, I don't know if I would classify this as a "dislike" since it is part of the design of the pattern, but the sleeves are very low and open, so a tank is necessary underneath to prevent everyone from seeing any undergarments you might be wearing. It also makes it a bit more difficult to raise your arms, but since it is in a knit that really isn't too much of an issue.
Fabric used: A mystery knit picked up from the National City Swap Meet. I think it is some sort of rayon blend? It is fairly lightweight and slightly slubby, but didn't have any problems with stretching, rolling, or fraying, so I really enjoyed sewing with it.
Pattern alterations or designs changes you made: None, really. I added an extra two inches of length to the pattern because I prefer longer tops. I also used lazy narrow hems (ie I used my serger to finish the edge, then flipped it to the inside and stitched it down) instead of bias binding on the edges. Perhaps I should have used a binding, but I sort of want this to have a stretched out lazy look about it, so if it doesn't stay pristine I think I might be ok with that.
Would you sew this again? Would you recommend it to others? Well, the oversized look usually isn't my thing, and until I got this fabric I hadn't even been considering this pattern. But I actually really like this top on me, so I think I might sew it again if the right fabric turned up. I would recommend this pattern to others - it is easy and well drafted - if they were looking for a top with this sort of dropped sleeve. I wouldn't recommend this as a basic t-shirt pattern, but I think it is great for making layering pieces.
Conclusion: Surprisingly good pattern! It was one I hadn't even considered when I first got this magazine, but it seemed right for my fabric. I am very pleased with the results and I think I will get a lot of use out of my quick and easy top.
You can see more pictures of the back and sides on my blog here. |
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Pattern with more than 5 reviews!
Measuring your high bust and using that size for your neck and shoulder keeps the garment in proportion. I do this because I have a mega-bust, otherwise everything would swim everywhere else. Nice job.
2/6/13 9:08 AM
Cute top, perfect for the stripes! I've been meaning to make this up but haven't traced it off yet, thanks for the push! = )
2/6/13 9:12 AM
So glad to see this one made up! Love it with the stripes!
2/6/13 6:30 PM
I like this better on you than on the model. I might make this one after all.
2/21/13 5:17 PM