Since the eldest is busy with her exams/college classes/job, I have to use Betty as my model. Though headless, armless and short, she'll have to do for now...
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| Pattern Description: This is a pattern for a variation on a tunic or top. 6 different choices, including sleeveless, short ruffled sleeves, pouf sleeves or wide short sleeves, Flounce or ruffle bottom and a choice of square or rounded neckline. I chose view C, which is a sleeveless tunic with a flounce bottom Pattern Sizing: The pattern came in a multi-size 8-18 (A) I usually wear a 4/6 in RTW tops, so I chose the 10, but graded down to an eight through the waist and flounce. Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes. The photo shows the top using two accented fabrics, I just used one. Were the instructions easy to follow? The instructions were easy enough to follow. I had to redo the bias tape on the arms, but that was only because I attached it on the wrong side in the first place. What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like that the top came together pretty quickly. The pleats look very nice in the cotton and I adore the flounce on the bottom. Once the pattern was finished though, I realized that the neckline bows out quite a bit when I bend. I'm not sure if I used too sturdy of an interfacing or whether or not it's the pattern..I'll have to play with it a bit in a drapier fabric. I have a longer torso, so the length is perfect. The top is definitely NOT form fitting. If you're insecure about looking thicker from a side view, this is not the shirt for you. Even with the tie in the back, the front "tents out" from the chest. Again, it may lie better in a silkier fabric. Fabric Used: I used a cotton batik from fabric lovers.com. The colors are deep and beautiful, but very busy. This is why I chose to only use one fabric. Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I cut the ten, but graded into an eight under the arm to the base of the shirt/flounce Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I don't wear a lot of sleeveless tops on their own; but I'm always wearing cardigans. If I could figure out how to NOT make the neckline bow out, I would absolutely make more. They are easy enough to put together and would make cute wardrobe additions. Conclusion: Loved the top, save for the large neckline. It's fun to have patterns with so many variations to try. Any advice on the bowing issue would be greatly appreciated  | ||||
Back view
Back view of neckline
Side view
No sleeveless tops on their own. Cardigans all the way..
Yeah, I wear sweaters with everything... Welcome to menopause :P
Happy "What Day is it again?"
