Knit Fit for Knit Wit....It's also Emmy Night!!!!

I find drape tops very flattering!










flickr link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/83461746@N00/1389641686/in/set-72157600382180795/

Simplicity View Finder:
http://www.simplicity.com/dv1_v4.cfm?design=3682

Close up

Drape top from Neiman Marcus

Pattern Description:
Misses' knit tunic and tops. (That's all mentioned by Simplicity!)
There were six views. Views A and B are gathered at the top edge and have short gathered sleeves. Views C and D are also gathered at the top edge, have empire styling and long sleeves, with sleeves gathered at the top. When I first saw View C and D, images of the Gibson Girl and 1890's fashion come to mind! Views E and F have built in camisoles, draped fronts, and either 3/4 sleeves or long sleeves with elasticized wrists. I sewed View F which was shorter in length than View E.

Pattern Sizing:
Misses' 6-8-10-12-14

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes, except the top seemed to have more drape in the illustrations.

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes, they were sufficient. This is definitely an easy pattern, but also easy enough for simple errors to happen (when rushing)! I had to make sure that I sewed the overlay's incorrect side to the right side of the fabric and aligned the points where the folded upper edge of the front overlay and the built-in tank top meet. I was somewhat surprised that I was a bit puzzled by the somewhat vague directions and illustration to attach the back to the front of the top, right sides together. It would have been helpful to show that the back was really placed over the front overlay (before sewing the side seams), especially for somebody who has never sewn with overlays!

I used the method described to finish the neck and bottom by folding along a 5/8" stitch from the edge (making sure the stitching is not visible from the outside),tucking the raw edge under, and stitching. Finishing the neck edges and the hem probably would have been easier with a serger!


Pattern Description:
Misses' knit tunic and tops. (That's all mentioned by Simplicity!)
There were six views. Views A and B are gathered at the upper edge and have short gathered sleeves. Views C and D are also gathered at the upper edge, have empire styling and long sleeves, with sleeves gathered at the top. When I first saw View C and D, images of the Gibson Girl and 1890's fashion come to mind! Views E and F have built in camisoles, draped fronts, and either 3/4 sleeves or long sleeves with elasticized wrists. I sewed View F which was shorter in length than View E.

Pattern Sizing:
Misses' 6-8-10-12-14

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes, except the top seemed to have more drape in the illustrations.

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes, they were sufficient. This is definitely an easy pattern, but also easy enough for simple errors to happen (when rushing)! I had to make sure that I sewed the overlay's incorrect side to the right side of the fabric and aligned the points where the folded upper edge of the front overlay and the built-in tank top meet. I was somewhat surprised that I was a bit puzzled by the somewhat vague directions and illustration to attach the back to the front of the top, right sides together. It would have been helpful to show that the back was really placed over the front overlay (before sewing the side seams), especially for somebody who has never sewn with overlays!

I used the method described to finish the neck and bottom by folding along a 5/8" stitch from the edge (making sure the stitching is not visible from the outside),tucking the raw edge under, and stitching. Finishing the neck edges and the hem probably would have been easier with a serger!


What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I finally found a pattern that looked like one of my favorite RTW top that I purchased months ago. I liked the drape front and the built-in tank underneath and the fact the blouse is simple to make. The view I sewed consisted of only four pieces (the front, back, front overlay, and sleeve).


Fabric Used:
Mystery stretch/lycra/spandex fabric from Joann's clearance section.


Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made:
I zigzagged the upper edge of the front overlay before folding it along the fold line. Other than that, I left the pattern as is. I did not encounter major fitting issues. If I were longer in the torso, I would definitely lengthen the entire blouse a little. I also found the armscye a little high. For those who have different proportions (I'm only 5'1" , short in the torso, arms and legs made for a woman who is 5'6", average weight), you might have to adjust accordingly. If I had broader shoulders and more muscle in the upper arms, I would have to alter the pattern so that I have would have more freedom of movement. The nature of the fabric would also have to be taken into account.


Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes! I might make a short sleeve version similar to my RTW top. The other views are also worth trying and are so "in" now. I sewed my version in one evening! I really recommend this pattern for those who want something stylish that is fuss-free, self-gratifying, and is easy to put together!

Working with this pattern is definitely a welcoming change after completing more challenging projects such as my recent labor of love, the 30 piece Simplicity 5376!


Conclusion
I usually avoid sewing with knits due to past experiences with finished products that looked unflattering and revealed more than what I wanted to show. But this pattern convinced me that knits coupled with certain styles can work!