I think this fabric may be bad luck! This is the second (and last!) top I've made from it that I've been less than overjoyed with. I mean, it's not a complete wadder, but it ain't great, either.
It doesn't look too bad on, actually. What I dislike is the utter lack of shape and the wide, open armholes, neither of which are apparent in the line drawing. In fact, the
line drawing shows an almost hourglass shape to the top.
Here it is flat. The side seams are almost straight, and this is AFTER I graded up a size at the bustline. I can't imagine how it would have turned out if I'd sewn it out of the envelope. It also has a very high neckline. I lowered it two inches and it still isn't what I would call low. According to
Trinny and Susannah busty girls need lower necklines. I'm just sayin'.
The armhole is also quite low and wide. Bra is visible, which I why I am wearing a turtleneck underneath in the top shot.
Here you can see that the sleeve hem actually dips into the bodice front. I think the only way to fix that would be to totally redraft the pattern, since it would effect the raglan seam. I'm so not going to do that when there are so many other raglan tops to try!! You can also see that the neckline treatment was a simple hem. While I'm not opposed to that, I really prefer a band for a knit top. Overall, I think this gets a thumbs down, although I like some of the other views in the pattern, so the pattern as a whole may still be a keeper.
I was hoping that this top would work out, as this was sort of a muslin for a lovely piece of knit from Gorgeous Fabrics that I really want to use. I only have a yard and the print has a big repeat, so I need a simple design. If you have already seen
this post by Lisa about supporting
Ann, you know why I'm chomping at the bit to use up my Gorgeous Fabrics. If not, surf over there.
A big thanks to all of you who shared your sewing nemesis both on the blog and Facebook. I'm feeling better about my sleeve. There is a very good chance I will conquer it today...
