The one item my wardrobe lacks, are groovy tops. I like nice blouses, but I really enjoy fun tops. Most of my tops are RTW and do not fit properly. They are either too long, too short or in need of a FBA. So, I decided it’s time to start making my own tops.
But before I tell you about M6963, I would like to mention I has an awesome time at the American Sewing Expo in Novi, Michigan. I didn’t take a lot of pictures. However, I was fascinated with the quilts from the Symbols of Africa Exhibit.
This was my first time attending and I have to say it was more than I expected. The market place was little overwhelming. There was a lot to see and purchase. But to my surprise, I didn’t purchase much. I treated myself to a pair of Kai 11inch shears. OMG, I absolutely love these shears. Now I am a Gingher diehard, but I couldn’t resist these Kai shears. I purchased a couple pieces of fabric. This was a little surprising to me, I thought I would have purchased more.
The classes I selected centered around knits. I plan to add more knits to my wardrobe, so I wanted to learn more on sewing with knits. I took a beginners class on draping. This class was interesting and inspiring, but I’m not ready to tackle draping just yet. The class that I enjoyed the most was “Body Shaping Your Dress Form”. I am overdue for a new dressform, but have been putting it off until I lose some weight. But , I learned how to select the size based on project weight loss and how to pad up to my current size. So now I trying to decide whether to invest in a full body dress form. Its recommended if you make pants for yourself. I’m in no hurry, so I will continue to gather more information.
Now let’s talk about M6963. I absolutely love V-neck type tops!!! Next in line are drape neck tops. I was drawn to this pattern because of the drape neck and its from Palmer/Pletsch. I knew immediately the pattern instructions would be fill with fitting techniques and tips.
The top is made from bamboo jersey I had in my stash from Moods Fabric. I just love the feel of bamboo jersey. I had to make a few adjustments. The top is quite long, so I ended up removing 4 inches in the length. In the past, I have used a FBA technique designed for knits. Its basically adding the inches you need across the top. This time I decided to use the technique in the pattern. I have to say I like it much better. It’s more precise. The last adjustment I made was a slight round back adjustment.
The construction was simple and it went together in about 2hrs. Overall, I am pleased with my top and will make it again. The only items I will change are to shorten the drape and stabilize the side seams.
Next in the queue is a dress for the Holidays. I fell in love with this metallic wrap dress from Talbots. It’s simple yet elegant. However, I would select different shows. 🙂 I found a silver metallic rayon jersey from emmaonesock. I decided to use
The Appleton Dress Pattern by Cashmertte.
On the knitting front, I decided to knit a couple of Christmas gifts. This is definitely new territory for me. The trick will be not keeping the items from myself. First up, is a hat I’m knitting for a close relative. It’s almost done, so I will give details when complete.
Until Next Time Keep Sewing!!!
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6 comments
Your top looks great! It seems that you had quite an experience at the expo. Love the wrap dress pattern and the interesting hat that you're knitting.
I love your top on you!! What a pretty color and the fit and style are very complimentary! I absolutely love when you complete a project and it looks & makes you feel good too! I am in total agreement with you on RTW tops…that's why I've made the majority of tops in my closet! (to be honest…the majority of my clothes are me made for that very reason!) Good luck with your wrap dress, I'm looking forward to seeing it!
I was sick the weekend of the Expo and didn't go. If you go next year maybe we can make arrangements to meet. I live a little over an hour away. For some reason for the last five or so years I've been sick. I think it has to do with the allergy season. What a bummer.
Love that color and the draped neckline. I'm in need of tops too. Looking forward to new posts from you.
This is really nice. I have that top, and I have noticed that the changes for FBA by Palmer/Pletsch really is very helpful.
Myra pretty much said what I was going to say! I'll add that I love the design on the knitted hat. I love looking at other people's projects – even though I can't knit to save the world!