Octa-Fun

I was inspired by the other PR'ers versions of Vogue 8451, that I decided to give it a try.

Pattern Description:
Close-fitting top with short or long sleeves has topstitched hems and neck facing.





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Pattern Sizing:
I sewed a "12" at the shoulders, tapering to a "14". I was glad to stick with my usual sizing.




Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes, except I used a bold print.


Favorite Features
* The short sleeves for view "A" did not billow out. I really did not have to take in the additional 1/4" at each sleeve cap.
* The scoop neck did not need to be be adjusted
*The flattering silhouette


Other Features
* I checked to ensure that the gathering at the lower edge of each sleeve was comfortable enough before attaching the lower band. My arms, unlike my other components, remained nearly the same circumference since my college years, and I was surprised that the arm bands were nearly snug to the point of discomfort. If necessary, I would have increased the length of the sleeve band.



Fabric Used:
Poly jersey from GorgeousFabrics.com. This is the same fabric that I used to make Heather's Jalie 2787 crossover top.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

They were fine for anyone familiar with basic sewing techniques.

I decided to "stay true" to the directions such as using the front and back facing and setting in the sleeves instead of sewing them "flat" as I usually do with knits. The tricky part was carefully topstitching the pressed under edge on the inside to give an illusion of a sleek looking faux neckband. This feature would work better with a plain knit in order to appreciate the "faux neckband" look. Due to the busy print I used, I felt that I did not have to use the neck facing and could have used a twin needle stitching to finish the edge of the neckline.


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
*Lower the bust point 3/8"
*1" petite adjustment at the marked line

Back view

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes. It is one of those fairly quick and gratifying projects (I completed the top in one afternoon). I even plan to extend the pattern to create a dress. I definitely recommend this pattern due the ease of construction and fitting adjustments. This is a nice basic pattern that presents itself to versatile styles.


Conclusion:
If you have this pattern in your stash and have not tried it, please sew it as soon as possible. According to the Voguepatterns website, it is already out of print, but your local fabric store or even *bay might carry it.


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