I looked through my years old stash and found some purple heather knit that I would not cry over if I ruined the top. In RTW I wear a 10-12 and cut this top out in a size 14. All-in-all it turned out well and was easy to make other than the set in sleeves. I blasted, then re-basted, and think on the third try managed to get everything in smoothly.
The top was a tiny bit tight in the bust but I've lost 5 pounds since then but the sleeves are too short. It never occurred to me to check the sleeve length when I was making this. Leason learned. I will make this again in the round neckline version either view A or B.
One more leason learned--skip the set in sleeves and put them prior to sewing up the side seams. Tried that method on another project-what a dream!
It is overcast today and this photo is much darker than should be. The top is a light-medium purple heather and that is a white door behind it. The flash started working for the other photos.
Now here is a real wadder for you: Simplicity 4025. I made view B in fleece. It turned out to be a real dog-an ugly dog at that. I like the way fleece sews but it seems too light of a material for this style to hang correctly. This fleece was also old stash fabric but I should have saved it for a blanket or something. Right now I can not imagine ever wanting to try this pattern again. But maybe I learn something down the line that will help me figure out what fabrics would work best--never a funky patterned fleece though.
But since I liked sewing fleece I decided to try another pattern and a solid colored fleece. That should resolve my issues right? Nope, another wadder just prettier color this time. I used McCall'S 5714 DIY Style and what a pain in the butt it was. Follow direction to this point, then take a right turn at Albuquerque, pick up directions here, then turn around and say the hokey pokey. Too much drama in the directions for me and I have read similiar complaints on PatternReview.com.
I chose view E to sew in a pretty yellow fleece. Never did figure out the collar directions correctly and at the end quit short of putting on some snaps. It looks terrible on me anyway. I thought I might try a different view in a different type of fabric--one day.
Ok, I can not close this with a wadder, what would you think of me? New Look 6816 Easy 2 Hour tops, skirt, and pants. I chose top view A and added to the length which was a great idea. The fabric was a new purchase from JoAnn's and I really like it.
Everything on this sewing experience went rather smoothly except for the neckline binding. I could not get that bugger to fit! So I cheated and recut the piece with the grain going the super stretchy way. I could get it to fit and sew it on. . . but, yeah you know what is coming. The neckline is just a bit too wide now and the bra straps show.
My honey says the top is pretty and to wear a strapless bra and not worry about it. I will definitely try this pattern again and maybe figure out that neckline binding better the next go round. Very cute top regardless.
