Here is a quick sewing project that I whipped up in a couple of hours with a knit remnant that cost just $3.00! I made this top to go with a new pair of dark wash jeans and black boots; it will be great for a casual dinner or a movie.
I used Vogue 8422 and guess what!?! I made only two simple changes to the pattern (instead of re-designing the whole thing like I usually do). I lengthened the top 2” and next time I sew it up, I’ll add even more, as this top hits at my hip bone. And, I took out the gathering in the bottom front pattern piece, because I didn’t want it to look like a peplum.
I took a cue from Ready-to-Wear and left a lot of the seam allowances raw. (If it’s good enough for $75 t-shirts it’s good enough for me!) This fabric is very sheer, almost like mesh, so my main objective was that the seam allowances look good from the right side. I finished the inside seams by stitching again ¼” from the seam line and trimming the remaining seam allowance away.
Because this fabric is so stretchy, topstitching looks wobbly. Instead of hemming, I trimmed the bottom off very neatly—that’s all! For the sleeve hems, I tacked the hem up ¾” at the underarm seam by stitching in the ditch and left the bottom edge raw. The sleeve hem naturally turns under, even though it’s not sewn. The sleeve is extra long which creates ruching at the bottom, so you’d never know the hem isn’t sewn. Here’s a picture of the hem turned up and stitched in the ditch:
Sorry to take so long to post—just finished a visit from my mother-in-law, who is 94. She’s a dear, but needs a lot of attention!
Ta-ta for now!
Great top! Love your blog and all your clothes!
Thanks! I love your blog too…the Vogue 1051 pants look great. I never would’ve tried that pattern if I hadn’t seen how cute yours turned out…it’s great to connect with other sewers…and that Weekend Designer site you found…OMG it’s awesome!
Truly fabulous!
Thank you, Tany…that is a huge compliment from you, who produces so many beautiful projects!
I love this blouse! I think the sheer fabric is perfect for this pattern in the front where it overlaps, but I’m curious about the back? Does a bra show? Or do you have to wear a cami with it? Either way, it’s very elegant and I really enjoy your blog!