I think this is everyone's first project out of
Heather Ross' Weekend Sewing book!
And for good reason, it just looks like such a fun, simple top and who isn't looking forward to spring and summer?
I won't lie, I definitely had some issues making it. I started making it Thursday, thinking I would whip it up quickly...
* First, I was making the large size and I needed more than the 1 and 5/8 yard suggested. I actually used most of my 2 yard cut.
* Second, the cutting layout in the book didn't work at all. Fortunately I love puzzles and often make up my own anyway.
* Next, I wasn't getting the directions about sewing the bias trim to the neck edge. I was lost, I didn't understand what size strip to cut or what the finished size would be. I kind of muddled through it but was getting frustrated.
It was late so I stopped here.
Fortunately the very next day I actually got to talk to Heather at
Spool Sewing for a book signing/store party! What perfect timing! :)
I also got to see some summer blouses in person which also really helped. I liked the tip I got from one of the ladies at Spool, to just do a simple bias strip folded in half. Then line up all raw edges, stitch, flip to the back and stitch more. I'm thinking a 1" strip, a 1/8" edge stitch would yield a neat 3/8" finished edge so I'll definitely work it this way next time.
One thing I love about this pattern is that is feels
infinitely adaptable.
I changed a few things with mine, the biggest is that I took in the side seams quite a bit under the darts. It was looking TOO loose and flowy for my tastes. I also added an inch of length (and did a narrow rolled hem). I chopped about 3" off my sleeves before hemming those -- they were long!
I'm not super happy with the height of the collar, it almost hits my neck. I think I would prefer a slightly lower curve, following the collarbone. Of course, I don't plan on wearing it closed and so I didn't add the loop and button at the top anyway.
So I already have my next version planned (I think I'd make loads of variations if I had the time!) I have an Amy Butler print waiting. This one will be sleeveless, with a V neck and a longer tunic length. Maybe some more darts. We'll see!
It was so much fun meeting Heather, I hope she doesn't think I was a giant PITA bashing her book. There are so many patterns in it that I *WILL* make. I've even learned how to make buttonholes to make the Kai shirt! Her writing style makes all of it seem very approachable for a beginner. I'm looking forward to working with different fabrics outside my comfort zone now, I'll just be sure to check out the
errata on
Heather's blog first. ;)
I also wish I had used a higher quality cotton, I think this is from Walmart. There is such a world of difference in the feel of it and say a Michael Miller print. It hasn't made a difference with projects like shorts, but for this shirt a crisper, sturdier cotton would be better.
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