THE MONTH OF TOPS

Hello

2010-01-27T16:02:00.000-08:00

Hello there!! It has been been a minute but hey we all get caught up in this crazy thing called life. So to catch you up lets begin. I decided to open an Etsy store to sell fabric ( Apparel and Quilting) ebbyjfabrics.etsy.com. It has been a real journey and along the way I began to make things to sell. I have enjoyed making things as well as selling the fabric and the rest is history. If you were thinking of selling on Etsy, I highly recommend it. There is so much opportunity out there!! So much information! It is what you make it. Anyway,here is what I have created so far....

On the site you will find a variety of things like these items as well as fabric. I will keep you all updated to the new things that are in the shop and I hope to see you there!!!

It's December

2009-12-01T22:48:00.000-08:00

Already?
But November was a great month! I would like to thank every participant to this challenge for sharing their work, tips and inspiration, but Faye in particular as "the mind behind it all". It was great to be a part of this group.
I really didn't think I would accomplish so much. Nine tops (and two exams :-) )! That is something to be satisfied about, isn't it?
Looking forward to joining the next round!
Until April I'll see you at the blogs. Have a nice and creative time!
Ciao!
Barbara

Thank you!

2009-12-01T03:44:00.001-08:00

I still have a photo to take of my final top I made for the month and will post it later.

I wanted to say "Thank you", Faye for doing this MOT sew along. It was actually invigorating for me. I was in somewhat of sewing slump but having a goal of sewing tops helped me out of the slump and I now have some more tops to wear. I was inspired by others who made some very nice tops and now of course I think I have to invest in some more patterns!!!! Again thank you! for doing this.

ENDING WITH A TWIST...

2009-11-30T21:17:00.000-08:00

November flew by it proved to be a wonderfully productive sewing month. I wanted to end this years Month of Tops sew-a-long with a twist - another twisted neckband tee that is. I used a light weight poly knit with my TNT pattern New Look 6735. I came up with idea of doubling the twisted neckband as a contrast. Initially, I started with a neckband cut on the fold and folded in half, but I thought it was too light weight - so I took a chance and doubled the fabric. I actually like the contrast in weight of the neckline versus the body of the garment. I also like the look of the twisted neckline on a solid fabric.

So here is MOT #14.

This has been an enjoyable sewing experience, especially since some really talented fellow bloggers joined in with me. So, a special "THANK YOU" to Ebony for encouraging me to do a month of tops again this year. And, a special "THANK YOU" to all who joined in to give a little boost to their wardrobes with some extra tops. EVERY ONES WORK WAS SO INSPIRING!!!, and I can't tell you how much I really VALUE my fellow bloggers - those who participated as well as those who looked on. Setting this up was a new experience for me - but so enjoyable.

This blog will continue for a while, so if anyone still wants to post tops, please feel free to do so...

MOT 5 & 6

2009-11-30T20:45:00.000-08:00

Trying to post before the clock strikes midnight!

The beige sparkle stretch knit is OOP S7013. The top is actually from several views of the envelope. The sleeves are from view A and the front/back is view F. I did not leave open the slits in the sleeves nor did I make a drawstring closure for the hem area. It was easy to put together.

The second is OOP S5956. It is made of a stretch lace type of fabric from my stash. The photo to me did not come out well, but it is several colors. I'm glad I finally figured out something to make this with because I really like the fabric. It is a cowl neck top with just the front and back. Again very easy to put together. I posted photos of the patterns on my blog. I've had a great time participating in the Month of Tops Sew-A-Long and thanks to Faye for inviting us all!

MOT #1,2

2009-11-30T20:44:00.000-08:00

Hi!

There wasn't much sewing going on over here due to a broken sewing machine. :( However, I really wanted to make some tops so I did some serging and handsewing to come up with these two tops. Also, I got to use some old t-shirts that were laying around. :)

There both based off of tops in T-shirt Makeovers by the Sistahs of Harlem. For the fall, I think I'll wear the ruffled tank as shown (with a long-sleeve) and the one-shoulder tank will most likely not be paired with a long-sleeve (it'll probably be worn alone with a jacket).

Thanks, Faye, for putting this all together! I've enjoyed seeing everyone's tops and have been inspired to make more once my machine is up and running! Thanks everyone for being inspiring!

Month of Tops #2- Kelroc

2009-11-30T18:00:00.000-08:00

This top made it in for the deadline. It almost did not, because I caught a cold or the cold caught me, LOL! Anywho, The top is New Look 6922 view D. The fabric is a animal print slinky from Fabric.com that I brought a years or so ago. I love this fabric. I plan to wear this under a black velvet jacket and a gray jacket that I have. I was working on top#3, but had problems. I still plan to finish it. I have really enjoyed challenging myself to accomplish more than one project a sewing session. thanks Faye for this opportunity. My creative juices are flowing and I am wanting to learn more, especially about knits. I plan to buy Wendy Mullins' Sew U Home Stretch to improve on my sewing with knits.

A wildy colorful knit top - MOT #3 (Sharon)

2009-11-30T13:57:00.000-08:00

One more top to add to the Month-of-tops collection. This knit top was sewn from Simplicity 4076, a pattern that I think most of us own.

While I did a small FBA, the first time I sewed this knit top I found that it was still too tight across the bustline. This time I did a larger FBA, rotating the dart into the neck gathers, and am much happier with the fit.

I also removed 3" of width from the long sleeves making them less "angelic".

And the fabric? It's left over from my "Tippi Hedrun" dress. A bit wild, but it makes me smile and will work nicely with a pair jeans.

This is my go-to tee-shirt pattern. I can whip one typically in less than an hour. What's your go-to tee pattern?

MOT #4 and #5 with a brief mention of #2 1/2 and a plan for #6

2009-11-30T13:30:00.000-08:00

All my last minute plans to have a top #6 have been foiled due to the Flu. (Not THE Flu, I don't think, but an annoyance all the same.) I managed to finish #5 yesterday before my symptoms hit with full force. (And have these not so flattering pictures taken before I hit the Nyquil.)

#4: Vogue 8581

I am assured that this is an awful picture and that the real garment is much more flattering. Go check out the pattern picture to see what it is supposed to look like. The sleeves are still unfinished because I haven't decided whether to just hem them, or insert the elastic that the instructions call for.

The fabric is an ITY knit from Fabric Mart and I used my serger for the body, and my regular machine for the hem. The hem really doesn't look that good, but has elastic inserted and tucked under to create a little bubble shape, so no one is the wiser. If I decide to just hem the sleeves, I am probably going to try a fusible web like steam-a-seam to keep a clean look. I've yet to be successful using my regular machine with this type of fabric.

#5 2614

This is the same pattern I used for Top #3 except with the longer tie. I do love this top, but I wish I could get the pooling out of the back. Swayback adjustments are just working for me. I liked this fabric better though. It doesn't have the stiffness that the flowered fabric does. (It is awfully stiff for something labeled cotton lawn.) I also like the longer tie better.

#2 1/2 Simplicity 3789

This would have been my third shirt, but it just didn't work for me. I have a completed version, but could not get the fit right. We'll see if I decide to go back and work them out.

Plan for #6

Had I not gotten sick to day, I would have tried to complete top #6. Remember top #1 that I wasn't so sure about? (Simplicity 3786) Well, I wore it and felt really cute. So, I am going to make it again in a lightweight black stretch cotton.

I just want to give a shout out to Faye. Thanks for getting us all going. I feel that my sewing desire is back, and I have 5 new tops to show for it.

Butterick 5035 and NL 6922

2009-11-30T08:19:00.001-08:00

Over the weekend I got a little bit of sewing done. I have now completed all my tops for MOT. I originally said that I would make 4 tops, but I did complete a 5th one. These 2 patterns were not the original patterns I had picked out, but hey, we're entitled to change our minds right? First up is #4. I had a club gig over the weekend and literally decided to make a top to wear that night an hour before I had to get ready. I chose Butterick 5035 as the pattern said you could make it in an hour. They weren't lying. It took me an hour and a half but that included cutting the pattern out so I thought that was pretty good. I did View A. The fabric was actually from my very first purchase from Fabric.com about a year ago. I remember when I bought it, I wasn't crazy about it, but thought I'd hang on to it. You never know when you might find a use for it. I'm glad I did. I love the top.

Top #5 is from NL6922, View D. This baby I worked on last night, and it also came together pretty quickly. I didn't follow the pattern directions. I lengthened the sleeves as I didn't want 3/4 sleeves. I also attached the neckline flat. Faye, who got the idea from Karen did this for one of her tops during the sew-a-long and I decided to also try it. If you've never tried this technique before, give it a try, you will not be disappointed.

That's pretty much it for me today as I have a lot of work to go and do. Before I go, I would like to thank Faye and all the lovely ladies who participated in this sew-a-long. I now have 5 new blouses which have added to my wardrobe, and I feel motivated in the sewing department. Now, to get to that holiday sewing.

MOT #11 and IT'S SPIN OFFS...

2009-11-29T15:52:00.000-08:00

MOT #11,12 & 13. Sometimes one thing leads to another, and then another...

Read the full review here...

Another KS 3658 top

2009-11-29T15:01:00.001-08:00

I made one more top today. It is a second version of KS 3658. I will take photos later and post. I used some velvet burnout knit fabric that has been in my stash so long that I do not know when or where I acquired it. I am just glad I used it. Was easy to work with and sew.

Loes Hinse 5213 V Neck Tunic

2009-11-29T14:40:00.000-08:00

I completed this top yesterday.

This is a Loes Hinse pattern. I used small in upper chest/neckline/shoulder tapering to large at bust line to bottom edge. Pattern called for 3/8 seam allowances. I ended up taking deeper seams where sleeves attach to bodice. I also took deeper seams in the shoulder/over arm seam. I took deeper seams at underarm through bustline, tapering back to 3/8 at waist to bottom. I think the stretch of the knit required the deeper seams.

I acquired the fabric from EOS in 2007. It was labeled Chico knit and as I recall this was knit used in some fashions for Chico's. The knit is slightly bulky and has stretch like slinky. I am thinking I will wear a chain belt with it to dress it up for work wearing black or brown pants.

Here is a side view shot

Second Top of the Month

2009-11-28T20:36:00.000-08:00

I spent the day in my sewing room. There were a million other things I could have done but I didn't. I never even got out of my pajamas! This is McCalls 5741. I've made it before and decided "why not?" The fabric is polyester charmuese. I don't know why I didn't chose easier patterns but I'm working from my stash. My husband doesn't like the buttons at first and tried to talk me into going the fabric store to pick out new ones. We didn't go but in the end he decided they would do.

I'm hoping to sew one more before the end of the month. Wish me luck!

Modification on MOT#4, and MOT #10

2009-11-27T19:43:00.000-08:00

I went back and added a flower like ruffle to the center front of top #4 because I felt it was a bit too plain.

#10 is made from a nice smooth knit from Ebbjy Fabrics. I used Simplicity 3634, view B for another cowl neck tee. The top is very simple, but what really excites me about it is the plaid pencil skirt that I plan on making to go with it. It's a nice wool flannel that I also got from Ebony.

I'm going to try to start MOT #11 tonight...

Simplicity 2501 - MOT #2 (Sharon)

2009-11-27T09:14:00.001-08:00

With only a few more days left in the month of tops sew-along I figured I better get busy and actually sew some more tops!

Here's my second addition to MOT, sewn using Simplicity 2501, a pattern with separate pieces for B, C, and D cup sizes.

More details here.

MOT#2

2009-11-27T08:59:00.000-08:00

I got a chance to finished up MOT #2 yesterday, and I wore it to dinner last night. Buttonholes are not so hard to do, and I'm not afraid of them anymore. I am so proud of myself. This top turned out soooo nice. Well, 3 down, 1 more top to go and I am done. I'm aiming on bumping it out hopefully by Monday.

Last of Simplicity 2850

2009-11-27T05:11:00.000-08:00

Click here for details

MOT No 9

2009-11-27T01:34:00.000-08:00

Pattern: La mia Boutique 4/2003, model 45

Super quick and easy pattern.The front and back are the same. It takes four seams and four hems to finish it.

I like how it creases around the body and the fall of the neck.

I used this pattern before with a very stretchy fabric, but now for this knit, since the pattern pieces looked very narrow to me, I added 2 cm to the body and 1 to the sleeves. I think the hips need a few more, heh. :-)
Very very nice pattern! Maybe it would be accented even more with a patterned fabric?

MOT No 8 - Sweaters refashion

2009-11-26T05:51:00.000-08:00

Hello!I'm still here! I have a bunch of patterns cut out but a little time to work on them. This is the only thing I finished - a sweater refashion. This counts, right?

From this:

To this:

The top looks better when on a real body because of the sleeves. They look renaiscanceish so I'd better find someone to take a picture of me wearing it, right?

There is still time until the end of the month to complete at least one top. Wish me luck!

Ciao!
Barbara

MOT #3 Simplicity 2614

2009-11-25T22:21:00.000-08:00

Simplicity 2614

I've made this shirt before, so it only took a couple of hours to complete after I cut it out. Technically, this is shirt number 4, but shirt 3 is in the wash. I'll photograph that one tomorrow.

I love this pattern, except for the pooling in the back. I made a swayback adjustment and took out about an inch, but the pooling is still there. Totally annoying. But I love this shirt and I will still wear it. The fabric is a cotton lawn from Fashion Fabrics Club. I also messed up by having 2 large flowers over my bust, but the tie breaks it up, so I don't care.

Simplicity 2599-Top #3

2009-11-25T12:10:00.000-08:00

This is a top that almost wasn't. I had some real issues sewing this top. Let me say that this pattern, IMHO, runs large. I normally cut a 14 in the upper chest/shoulder/neckline area. I then taper to 16-18 for bust and then 16 from under bust down. This top is rather boxy. I thought that when I bought it and looked at it before cutting it out. Simplicity seems to only indicate their bust measurements on tops not the waist and hip; thus it is difficult to know how much ease there is unless you do a flat measurement. I still make mistakes doing that. I made another top during the summer that also ran large, so this may be the norm for many of Simplicity patterns.

I ended up having to recut the front and back pattern pieces and extend the bust dart as my first attempt was huge and trying to adjust those pieces just made matters worst. I ended up cutting a 14, extending to 16 at bust and then tapering in again to size 14 just under the bust. Fortunately I had enough fabric to do this. I think in 20/20 hind sight, that silk dupioni was not the best fabric to use as well, as I think a fabric with more drape would work better because of all the fullness.

Nonetheless, top #3 is complete. I only have to sew on the button at the back neckline. Now that all the fitting is done, I still like the look of this pattern and intend to make another using the front ruffles or flounces.

Here is a front and back view on my dress form-AlmaMarie:

DOING THE TWIST ON MOT #9

2009-11-25T10:27:00.000-08:00

I keep forgetting what number top I'm on! But just found out that this is number 9. I made this top from Vouge 8323. I felt that I needed to do SOMETHING different to add some punch or switch it up just a bit. I got the idea that I wanted to add a twist neckband on top #9. I was able to get directions from four different sources and have to give credit where credit is due: Sew News, Assorted Notions, Sew Intriguing, and Sigrid - Sewing Projects. My band is a little hard to detect because of the print that I used.

Marked up my table a little bit, but that's par for the course (he he).

On to #10...

MOT #3

2009-11-24T14:26:00.000-08:00

Yesterday at lunch in the food court no less I traced and cut out my MOT#3 BWOF 2-2009-108. It was kind of weird. I kept looking around to make sure no one was watching me. Hey, a girl's got to do what a girl's got to do, and I was on a mission.

Last night I got home around 9 pm, cut the pattern out and sewed it up. I almost messed up the sleeve while serging but it was salvageable. I hemmed the neckline but decided to go with the rolled look so I didn't hem the bottom of the shirt or sleeves.

I love the feel and color of this t-shirt jersey fabric. I want to make more. If I have time tonight, I just might cut out another one. I wore this one to work today, and one of my co-workers thought the shirt came from the Gap. I'm still working on MOT#2. I practiced making button holes on Sunday, so I'm ready to go I just have to mark my blouse.

I have a question. For those of you that make button down shirts, do you use the template provided by the pattern or do you wing it?

Goal Complete!

2009-11-24T11:38:00.000-08:00

My goal for participating in this fun sew along was to make 6 tops... and I did it! Here are my last 4 tops.
I have made this next pattern over and over! Simplicity 3634 shown here in a stripe stretch knit from I can't remember where!
I normally don't wear horizontal stripes but I don't mind with this fabric. And here again in a stretch knit from walmart... now this fabric was pretty boring so I added some simple embroidery that stitched out in less than an hour.

A pretty fan and cherry blossoms design on the back shoulder... I also added some 3mm black swarovski crystals.

And a stem of cherry blossoms on the side waist.. with some more little crystals. Really dresses up this top!

This below is Vogue2977. This was the first time I made this and it sewed up super quick. I used a crinkle black stretch knit. To dress it up I used Gold YLI candlelight decorative thread in my cover stitch machine set on a 2 thread narrow hem around the neckline, bottom hem and sleeve hems. I also made the matching skirt that was in this pattern and used the same method for trimming it... more about the skirt on my blog after the holiday. Love the top and the skirt with it!

Here's another one I've sewn before. Mccall5708. I used a lightweight sweater knit from Walmart... its really pretty and has metallic threads throughout it! Pretty fancy stuff for walmart! and for $2 a yard!

Love this pattern, sews up fast! and cute!

Thanks Faye for hosting this sew along! Its really made a dent in my stash and now I have much needed new fall/winter tops!

Ok... off to finish up the other 2 skirts I'm making to go with these new tops!!

MOT #2: Simplicity 2931

2009-11-24T10:57:00.000-08:00

Simplicity 2931: View F

This is a summer top that I had cut out and sitting around for months. It was super easy to put together and I wonder why I waited so long to make it.

Things that went wrong:

What is up with those sleeves?
Once again, tunic length. So unflattering.
As patterns go up in size, the shoulders just get farther and farther apart. People, not so much. I am not the same size that I was when I cut this out; so I had to take in the side seams a lot. If I were to make this again, I would take it in on the fold, which would make it smaller and take out some of the width of the neckline.

Things that worked:

Cut off a couple of inches. It's amazing what a big difference the right length makes.
Style works for person who is losing weight. (The next shirt up, not so much.)

This is not the most winter-appropriate style, but it will layer just fine under a sweater. It may also be cute with a long-sleeved T-Shirt underneath. And yes, that is a black velvet pirate painting in the back.

Simplicity 2850 - MOT #4

2009-11-24T03:40:00.000-08:00

Click Here for Details

MOT #8

2009-11-23T20:45:00.000-08:00

I loved the two tops that Sheila made from this pattern (Simplicity 2850) and had to give it a try. I love the colors in this fabric and have a necklace that has exactly the same colors that I will wear with it. I made a shortened version on view A also, tapered the sleeves and added a simple hem rather than use the elastic as the pattern called for. I had a wee problem getting the neckband flat, but figure it was something I did wrong in cutting - I will rectify that glinch next time because I do plan on using this pattern again.

P.S. It does my heart good each time I see a new post with a brand new design. Only 7 more days left in the Month of Tops Sew-a-Long. Many thanks for all who have participated so far.

#3 & 4 MOT

2009-11-22T18:08:00.000-08:00

NL6838 is my third top for the sew-a-long. This is what I wrote on my blog: knit has gold diagonal lines. I've had this fabric in my stash for over nine years. This was very easy to make and I chose View B with elbow length sleeves. There is a center back seam. This may be an out of print pattern.

B5260 a knit print, View A. This took about two hours, if that, to sew up last night. When I first came across B5375 a See&Sew pattern, I really liked the top. Since those are never on sale, I searched to see if one of their regular patterns was similar. I found 5260 with exactly the same line drawing and description etc. So I buy it at one of the 99 cent sales. This top is made from a knit from stash. It is an a-lined, pullover with topstitched hems. The top has several neckline variations to choose from. I might make this one again and I highly recommend it.

Just over a week left in the month and I hope to complete the tops planned on my list. I'm having a good time. Good luck to everyone.

Kwik Sew 3658

2009-11-22T13:47:00.000-08:00

I basically finished this top actually about two weeks ago. I just needed to hem it. I did this yesterday. I decided to put it on for some photo shots for this blog and mine. I wore this top with a different bra than the one I wore when fitting and sewing. I like the look with that bra better so will make note of that when I wear it. It looks like it is pulling more in the bust area with this bra.

The design of this top is a bit unusual. The back shoulder falls back from the actual shoulder area, creating somewhat of a yoke. Here is a side shot showing this design feature.

MOT #1

2009-11-22T12:32:00.000-08:00

Here I am in my first finished top. I just love it. I feel so girly in it. Wait a minute...I am a girl...an old one but still a girl. I'm busy making FBA on several patterns. Hope to have one stitched up by the end of the week.

Rachelle

MOT #2

2009-11-22T09:30:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I finished and wore this finally. I like it and it's very comfy. I'm not sure mandarin collars are well suited for bamboo knits. It could just be me, who knows. Long story short and 2 collars later, I tweaked the shoulders by taking them in a little more. I was then able to fit the collar on with no problems but as you can see from the picture, it's still sagging a little. I think it's the fabric and not the collar at this point. Bamboo has a lot of drape and stretch to it. Anyway, here the review I did on this top over at Pattern Review.

I started working on my second top for MOT. It's Simplicity 4112. A Built by Wendy pattern.

I'm making View B. This one has gone together very easy. I'm glad I picked this pattern to be my first button down. It's another mandarin collar, and I had no problems with the collar on this one. I think I've got it down now. If I have some time today, I want to work on the button holes today and finish hemming it up.

MOT #3 w/ Simplicity 2850 - Take II

2009-11-21T16:01:00.000-08:00

Click here for Details

MOT #7

2009-11-21T12:59:00.000-08:00

For some reason I don't use that many Simplicity patterns but I used 3624 for the first time. It was simple and with the fabric I chose, really a joy to sew up. Compared to MOT #6 which was made from a poly/lycra knit and a little tricky in sewing, the fabric I used for #7 (which I purchased from Ebbjy Fabrics by the way) sewed like a dream. So here it is. I know that I will be wearing this one to work next week.

For #8 I was inspired by Sheila's last top, and I have a idea that I'm itching to use for the neckband on that one. I'll actually be using one of the New York City purchases for the next top. I haven't gotten into that fabric at all. We'll see how it comes out.

MOT #6

2009-11-20T20:55:00.000-08:00

An knit animal print twisted neckline top for Butterick 5429. This is a new pattern for me and since I do not make muslins for tops, I cut this top about a size and a half larger than my norm because I was unsure of the fit of the pattern. After starting the assembly I ended up taking 1" seam allowances to take it up because it turned out way to big. This is the second twisted neckline top that I've made, and although I'm often drawn to patterns of this type I don't think I'll make another one. This top is a good one, and the print certainly fits in my wardrobe with all the black that I wear. I'm just not sold on the twist construction.
Now to make a decision on what pattern to use for top #7...

MOT #2 w/ Simplicity 2850

2009-11-19T20:07:00.000-08:00

Click Here for details.

Top #2

2009-11-19T17:23:00.000-08:00

Simplicity 4605 is my second top for the Month of Tops. I've made this before and I think this pattern is now an OOP. I used a knit from my stash that I purchased from Walmart. It was easy to sew and I like it. The top has neckline variations and I used the view with the neck band. The sleeves are 3/4 length. I used topstitching for the sleeves and the bottom hem. It looks close to the pattern photo but I used a few gathering stitches in the front & back neck areas to make the neck band fit. This is why during the sewing process of this top, I feel I should have used another fabric or a different pattern for this. But I have another top for my wardrobe.

My First Top - S2601

2009-11-18T16:08:00.000-08:00

I'm taking a quick break from making slacks to do something different. Okay the real truth is that I've had this top cut out and used up a major portion of my pins. Not only that, I hate have UFOs laying around. I've had this pattern since this summer and recently saw it made up in a magazine and just loved it.

My fabric may be out of season but I just love it. I had two yards of it but I thought it was 60" wide. Much to my dismay it's only 45" and I had to do some creative pattern placement as well as use a different fabric for the midriff facings to make it work. So far this is what I have:

I hope to finish it by the weekend so that I can make more pants!

Butterick 5420 - MOT #1

2009-11-18T09:09:00.000-08:00

Last night when I got home I got back to work on this baby finishing the sleeves up and attaching them. The fit is much better to my liking, and looks pretty good on. I'm still not crazy about the collar. I feel like I would get a better fit if the collar was now taken in.

(Collar not taken in)

(Collar taken in) (This is how much I pulled it in by)

I'm thinking about opening the collar up at the center back on the collar only and taking out about an inch or so and then re-connecting it back on. Or, open the collar back up and put something a little stiffer or elastic. I don't know. What do you think? Any suggestions?

Jalie 2805 - 2nd Top

2009-11-17T19:35:00.000-08:00

This is my second entry in The Month Of Tops. The pattern is Jalie 2805. I chose to make the v-neck this time.

Much like Shelia in her earlier post, I had a busy fabric that needed a simple pattern. All of my knit patterns are Jalie and this is the pattern I felt was the least fussy.

I really love the Jalie patterns. I feel like the fit is perfect and I really love the length. I am long and rarely find shirts that are long enough. They always ride up in the back. I don't have to worry about that with these Jalie tops. It is such a nice feeling to have a top that not only fits well at the top, but is also long enough! That is truly rare for me!

This is the second top I made the same day as the brown one I posted earlier. I hemmed this one Saturday and wore it Sunday. I can definitely see this pattern becoming one I use many times. I just need to figure out exactly what type of fabric I like best!

#3

2009-11-17T17:55:00.001-08:00

It's Butterick 5397, I guess it would be view A with long sleeves.

I can't decide which belt to go with so check my blog and chime in with your favorite.

My 1st post!

2009-11-17T10:46:00.000-08:00

Hi! I've been following along here and everyone is making some super cute tops!!
Here are the first 2 tops I made:
NewLook 6729. Love it love it!! I admit,, I've made this so many times, short and long sleeves. I think crossover tops are flattering for my body type.

Instead of using hidden elastic around the neckline like usual I used a lingerie elastic and let it peep out.

This top is also part of my fall/winter wardrobe.

My second top is Vogue 8534.. love it too! This was my first time making this top and it made up as quickly as the above top that I've made so much!

I used a pretty stretch lace I bought at the Sewing Expo last year for the upper bodice panel .. the black is a slinky knit I bought at Walmart.

I have 3 other tops finished... now to photograph them!

MOT #1

2009-11-17T09:49:00.000-08:00

Yay! I finally have a top done. It is Simplicity 3786.

It needs a wash and another good pressing, but I'm glad I got this one done. For awhile there, I thought this was going to be a wadder, so I'm happy that I ended up with something wearable.

Things that went wrong:

One side of tucks looks way better than the others.
Seams look puckery in the front, even though I have ironed them. A lot.
Fabric is way thinner that I thought it was.
Not the most flattering cut for me.
Original sleeves were too tight.
Waaaay to long.

Things that went right.

I just hemmed it to be a more flattering shirt style instead of a tunic. (Tunic length is not so good for me.)
I was going to use the longer sleeve length, but the size I cut out was too small around for me, so I just cut out the cap sleeve one size larger and gathered more to get it to fit inside the armhole. (The longer sleeves were also puffy on the lower arm. I was not terrible sure if that was a look I even wanted to try to carry off.)
While I love white and light blue striped cotton fabric, it does not usually love me. Other items I have made with this type of fabric have usually turned out to look like hospital gowns. I don't think this one does.

I don't love this shirt, but I'll wear it. Who knows, it might grow on me.

MOT #1 Progress

2009-11-17T09:46:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend I was able the cut out and mark Simplicity 4112. I washed the fabric for this one and so far there isn't any shrinkage so I'm happy about that. I put that pattern aside for now and also cut out and marked Butterick 5420 which you see below.

I love this fabric. If you ever get a chance to work with organic bamboo knit fabric, please do. It's well worth the money and feels fantastic on. It's like BUTTER!! Anyway, I started working on the top Sunday night and it's coming along nicely, but I did run into a little snag. The pattern called for you to interface the front 2 pieces and the collar. I'd never done that before and up to last night I didn't know if I would ever do it again. You don't get the stretch you want after you do that. I posted about this yesterday on my blog, and Mz. Choize over at Mocha Style left me a comment, which by the way I did understand =). Thank you, thank you thank you. I never knew that there was a stretch interfacing.

On my way home last night I stopped at JoAnns and picked up some tricot knit interfacing. I re-cut the collar from spare fabric and attached the collar with no problems. I also did some tweaking to the bodice as I wasn't quite liking the fit. I haven't tried it on yet, but it does look good on Lola. This morning I sewed the sleeves and have one pretty much complete. I just have to attach it to the armhole. I have to put the two pieces together on the other sleeve and that will be done as well. Sorry I don't have any updated pictures. I'll try to take one tonight after I get home.

Making of MOT #2 w/ Simplicity 2850

2009-11-17T08:01:00.000-08:00

Simplicity 2850: Misses Knit Mini Dress, Top & Hat.

Fabric: Poly/Lycra that I'd purchased from Metro Textile Corp. during Pattern Review Sewing Excursion on Nov. 7th.

This Bold Paisley Double Border Print caught my eye amidst the fabric frenzy at Metro Textiles. The yellow/pink/black/cream combo is so bold & eye catching that I knew I had to have some of it and for just $5.00/yd. who can beat that.

Simplicity 2850 is the perfect pattern for the fabric, in that there are minimal pieces, therefore allowing continuity of the print. Sewed the body of the garment last night and attached the neck band this morning and tried it on and it fits nicely. Whats left are the sleeves and hemming the bottom. I am contemplating whether to do gathered sleeves or just a straight sleeve... so until then keep stitching.

Tops in action

2009-11-15T10:06:00.000-08:00

So, here are the tops on a real body, as you requested.
Excuse the creases in the pic above, but I'm sitting on the wall. The top fits nicely. I realized the placement of the flowers on the front is not that obvious. The only thing I would change is the length. Maybe shorten it about 10 cm. The hem gets to my largest part, which is never a good thing, hehe.

The boatneck fits perfectly. I lowered the back side in case I wanted to wear the back as the front, also because of the flower placement. All in all, I think this is the best of all the tops I made.

The gray top also fits well. After all the changes. If you want to sew this model make sure you measure the pattern pieces before cutting. I don't know, maybe it was the weight of the knit, but when I put it together the first time it really looked tent-like. Big and heavy. I'm curious to see some other versions.

I hope this little review helped! Have a nice creative sewing time you all!
Ciao!
Barbara

I made another one ...

2009-11-14T22:36:00.000-08:00

It's another version of the Kwik Sew blouse I made last weekend. That's all I've done.

New Look 6407 - MOT #1

2009-11-14T22:03:00.000-08:00

ETA: I wasn't satisfied with my cuffs and at 7:30 am took the task of removing the cuff from the sleeves and positioning it correctly. Ahhh, I feel so much better... it was a tedious task, but in the end I am very happy. Matter of fact, I'm going back to the men's boutique that I'd purchased the cufflinks from, the sales clerk showed me a lovely cufflink set with a light blue stone and thinking it would look better than the onyx ones I purchased.

Here's a closer look at the cuff - Rightside

and wrong side

I finished my first top for MOT....woohoo! I used New Look 6407 with a poly/cotton fabric in soft blue. The pattern calls for bracelet sleeves, but I extended my sleeve 3" and lengthened the sleeve band in an attempt to create a french cuff. Some where along the line I lost sight of what I was doing and my cuff opening is in the wrong direction. But you know what... it will be worn. I even purchased cufflinks for this blouse, but will definitely make another one with the cuff opening facing properly. On to the next Top.

MOT #5

2009-11-14T21:13:00.001-08:00

I finished this top last night after my trip got a little extended because I didn't think it was safe to continue driving after dark. This was made by morphing my TNT New Look 6735 with the cowl collar from McCall's 5699. I kinda wanted a turtleneck from this fabric, but opted for the cowl collar instead to give the top a little punch. I wanted something really comfortable and loose fitting so I cut the top a little wider. I purchased this fabric from Ebbyj Fabrics. I fell in love with it because it was such a light weight knit. The color doesn't show up that well in the picture for some reason, but the tulip print is a really dark chocolate on a sort of taupe background. I think it is such a cute and fun print. I will probably go ahead and make the McCall's 5699 in it's entirety also. Trying to make a decision on what pattern for what fabric is sometimes trying and definitely time consuming.

Thought I'd sew a little tonight, but I guess I'm too tired to start....

Month of Tops #1-Kelroc

2009-11-14T13:58:00.000-08:00

Here is my first entry in the MOT- New Look 6807 view C.

It seems like everytime I touch fabric the phone rings, and people come by. This quick and easy top turned into a four day saga, LOL! The only problem I had was with the neckband. The topstitching is very uneven, it is not that noticable. I am still going to wear it. Had fun doing it. Thanks Faye for mentioning the flat neckband technique and the site reference. I will definitely be using that method. I sewed my hems flat before sewing the sided seams. I hate trying to sew slinky fabric in the round.

MOT No6 and No7

2009-11-14T11:25:00.000-08:00

1,80 m of fabric and a few leftover pieces from a previous project for a friend + Burda 2/2009-108 + Burda 5/2009-103 = 2 tops and a pair of panties!

Both patterns are great. I recommend them. I also would recommend (and this goes to myself!!) next time to take care of the placement of the pattern on the fabric to avoid the flowers in THOSE spots! Sigh... Bottom of the back and top of the front. How did I do that anyway? Certainly wouldn't have if I wanted to! Has something like that ever happened to you?

Curious about the panties? Take a look here.

Finally Finished - First Top for Month of Tops!

2009-11-13T20:26:00.000-08:00

I finally hemmed the sleeves and bottom of this shirt. I made it last Monday while at home with my now 8 year old. He wasn't feeling well that day. I sewed while he watched tv and read. By late morning he felt better and then told me everything I ever wanted to know about Star Wars! We actually enjoyed our sewing/sick day together.

I ordered this fabric because I wanted a good brown shirt. I was disappointed when the fabric arrived as it wasn't exactly what I envisioned. I wanted a slightly thicker fabric. Plus, this one gets a little shine to it when you iron it wrong.

The pattern is Jalie 2910. This is the second time I have made it, you can see the first one here. I have become a little obsessed with Jalie patterns!!

I made a second Jalie shirt that same day. I hemmed it today also. I'll post it this weekend also.

My Month of Tops Selections

2009-11-13T11:00:00.000-08:00

Hey all, sorry I haven't posted before now. I have about 8 tops picked( I originally had 11) out that I would like to make, but for right now I only want to commit to making 4 of them. I'm showing you 5 because I saw the top that Nancy K wore over the weekend, so, I've added it to my list also. It's BWOF 12-2008-113B. The fabric is a jersey knit that I picked up at Walmart. By the way, Nancy's jacket was total Bling to me. I loved it. Next up is Butterick 5420. View D.I picked out a bamboo knit fabric at JoAnn's to try this one on. This fabric is like butter.

Next is BWOF 2-2009-108. I'm using a jersey knit that I purchased at JoAnn's.

This pattern is BWOF 5-2009-103 with a jersey knit I picked up at Fabric Warehouse. And finally, Simplicity 4112, with curtain fabric I picked out at Fabric Warehouse. I doing View B. That's it for so far. I have the butterick pattern cut out so far and I plan on getting the Simplicity pattern cut out by tonight so that I can start sewing them up tomorrow.

MOT #4

2009-11-12T19:17:00.000-08:00

This is not the greatest of pictures, but here is top #4 for me. It's another TNT pattern, Simplicity 4095. It's another simple tee, but this time with a V neck line that has just a little rauching at the center front. I wasn't able to use the flat neckband application on this top because if the "V". I really needed a cream or off white top so this is it. I still have another piece of cream fabric in my stash that I will hopefully make up this month too.

My First Top of the Month-B5185

2009-11-12T07:19:00.000-08:00

I completed this top last week. It is view B of B5185. A close-fitting, pullover, hip or below-hip length top has surplice front, forming knot and asymmetrical side front opening. Finished the hem with a narrow machine stitch. It looks alright, but I am not fond of how the fabric hangs in the lower front opening. I think maybe I should have used a fabric with not as much stretch. We'll see. Otherewise, it was an easy sew project.

MOT No 5

2009-11-12T04:21:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I told you about a refashion. It was inspired by Tanya's Simplicity 2852.

From this:

To this:

You can read about the whole process and see more photos here.

Ciao!
Barbara

A yellow lace tunic - MOT 1 (Sharon)

2009-11-11T12:09:00.000-08:00

One tunic - four looks.

My first completed project for the MOT is this lace tunic. I began with the instructions for the 30-minute cami in the newly released One Yard Wonders book and made some minor adjustments to create this lace tunic.

The yellow lace fabric was purchased about two years from Fabric Mart Fabrics. It is lined with a silk jersey knit in a taupe color that looked horrid next to my face, but worked beautifully as a lining for this tunic.

I'll likely wear it with black pants, the black scarf and some type of jacket. I'm not sure which one yet, and just may end up sewing myself a new one!

If you're interested in the how-to, there are more details on my sewing blog.

MOT No 4

2009-11-11T10:49:00.000-08:00

I tell you, I am super motivated to sew. I have a billion ideas popping up by the minute and more coming up when I see your projects. Any guesses why? Of course it's just to avoid studying, hehe.

This is the forth top!
Pattern: Burda 12/2008, model113, size 40

Anyway, it looks like I cannot sew a top for this challenge without some kind of problem. I have to tell you, this pattern is enormous. In case you were just about to make it - measure first. My guess is that you will choose to draw the pattern two sizes smaller than yours.
I had to take every single seam in about 1,5 cm to make it fit decently. And I also added some ruffled elastic to the neckline because it was so plain boring even with the little folds.

Oh, I forgot the hems! Ahem, they ended up being wonky. But the look kind of goes with the ruffles so I let them be. :o) I love ruffles!

Next? A refashion.

Ciao!
Barbara

TOP #3 FOR FAYE...

2009-11-11T09:03:00.000-08:00

I WONDER WHAT WILL BE THE CUMULATIVE NUMBER OF TOPS THAT WE PRODUCE?
ANYBODY CARE TO GUESS?

I finally finished top #3. I had started a Vogue top several days ago that turned out to be a dud. I don't know if it was the pattern or the fabric or both because it certainly wasn't me (he he). I thought it would be best to just call it a loss. I had used a knit and the pattern called for bust darts. I hate darts in knits - they just never lay right. So I moved right along but this time with " TNT" New Look 6735. I've made this top at least 3 other times. It's a super simple tee that fits really good. It's easy - only 4 pattern pieces, and I don't need the instruction sheet at all. The only thing that makes it different this time is the way that I applied the neck band.

The instructions for this pattern like all the others I've made call for sewing the shoulder seams and then applying the neck band in the round which isn't hard to do, but I found the interesting idea of sewing it flat on this blog
http://sewingbytheseatofmypants.blogspot.com/2009/03/best-band-ever.html. Actually it is easier this way and the neck band lays much flatter when installed in this manner. I had wanted to use this method ever since I read about it - and I really like it. So, even thougth this is made from a super easy "TNT" pattern I learned and used a new method. Now it's on with the show...

Line-Up of Patterns for MOT

2009-11-11T08:42:00.000-08:00

Here is my run down of patterns, which is subject to changes...*tee hee*

I'm starting with New Look 6407, which is a button-down blouse with darts, and sleeve variations. I'm using a poly/cotton fabric in a light blue and yesterday during my lunch break cut out the pattern, which was a time saver and when I got home was able to cut & mark the fabric. I am trying to create French Cuffs using the sleeve bands and I've cut the sleeve band for the size 22, which should be sufficient for the french cuff to fold over itself and lengthen the sleeve by 3". Crossing fingers that it works out the way I envision it.

I like the ruffle on blouse E and will do long sleeves, and again using the sleeve band to mimic french cuffs and do the peter pan collar. Also this will be my first time doing ruffles. Any tips would be helpful. This season I am seeing a lot of blouses with pintuck detailing and thinking this blouse would be perfect. Again, any suggestions would be helpful.

I like the style of this pullover blouse and like the look of it with a vest.
I still need to narrow down my fabrics for the rest of the patterns. This is so exciting and looking forward to the other participants lovely creations.

"MOT's" Top #1 from Mochastyle

2009-11-11T07:19:00.000-08:00

My first entry in the," Month of Tops." is NewLook 6952.

I love the color and the stretch of this poplin fabric, it goes perfectly with this denim skirt, which u can barely see here, lol! You may have noticed, I'm not quite finished with the buttons. I haven't purchased any yet, lol. But the buttons will be hidden under the placket and it will be a min. before I make it to the fabric store. In my eyes she's basically complete. U can read more on my blog here.

Seeya!!

2009-11-10T22:02:00.001-08:00

Hello from the rainy Pacific Nortwest -- Oregon to be exact! I cut out a cardigan/top kinda sweater knit last night. It is about the color of Chelcie dog--but a lot less rambuctious! Glad to be joining all of you!

Gail

Jalie 2806

2009-11-10T17:52:00.000-08:00

First and foremost I want to thank Faye for starting this little project and blog. I have been working on tops. Faye took a moment or two to comment on my top and mentioned her month of tops from last year. Next thing she has set up a Month of Tops project.

So here is my Jalie 2806 top I recently made. It is from a knit fabric I purchased from Fabric.com over a year or so ago. This is my second top from this Jalie pattern and the fit is much better the second time around.

I plan to make a few more tops from this pattern. You can go to Pattern Review to read my complete review of this pattern. I highly recommend it.

My next top is a Kwik Sew pattern. It is complete except for the sleeve and top hems. Post to follow soon.

LIFE IS FULL OF LEARNING EXPERIENCES...

2009-11-10T16:32:00.000-08:00

we should never stop learning. Whether big or small, I think each new learning experience is wonderful. Even though I resist sometimes, and even put up a big fight, I am always happy when I learn something else.

Setting up this blog was a learning process for me. It's been almost three years since I set up my own blog, but I have never been the administrator of one such as this with other blogger authors.

WOULD EVERYONE PLEASE CHECK THE PARTICIPANT LIST IN THE SIDE BAR TO SEE THAT I HAVE YOU LISTED. I THINK I LEFT SOMEONE OFF, BUT CANNOT FIGURE WHO IT IS. IF IT'S YOU, PLEASE LET ME KNOW.

Twenty-four (including myself) are all logged in and ready to post. Two people still have not responded to the email invitation as of yet. I think it is wonderful that you all joined me and I want to say a special "THANK YOU" ! It is so nice to be a part of sewing blogworld!

PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THAT THE SPRING TOP SEW-A-LONG WILL BE IN APRIL.

P.S. I started top #3 last night, but alas it's a DUD! Not sure if it was the pattern or the fabric or both because of course it wasn't me (LOL)! But I've got to start over. Tomorrow I'm off on a 2 day business trip but I'm taking my sewing arsenal and my laptop with me so I can keep up my runway stride.....................

MOT #2

2009-11-09T17:48:00.001-08:00

Simplicity 2852, view A with modified sleeves.

Fabric: Dark green knit-don't remember when/where I got it

MOT No 3

2009-11-09T12:58:00.001-08:00

Pattern : Wrapover top, Burda 1/2009, size 40

I loove this top! But it's waaay too transparent. Needs something to go underneath. Sigh...
I'm definitely going to make it again with a more appropriate fabric.

Ciao!
Barbara

MOT No2

2009-11-08T10:46:00.000-08:00

Pattern: Sabrina Woman S1536 (German magazine), model 19, size 40/42

I had to take the back in a bit to prevent the shoulders from slipping to the sides.

I'm going to call this top a muslin and sew it again using a softer fabric to see what the problem with the back truly is. Or not? What do you think? The back definitely needs some changes.

Ciao!
Barbara

Two out of three ain't bad ...

2009-11-07T20:55:00.000-08:00

I had planned three tops this weekend, but so far have only managed these two. This first one is KS 3668 from a poly cotton that I bought recently. I'll sew the buttons on tonight in front of television.
The second is a vintage McCalls pattern from a poly chiffony stuff that I bought last June for my June Capsule and never actually sewed up. I haven't decided buttons for this one yet.Back to the stash to see what else I can find!

Here's Mine

2009-11-07T16:42:00.001-08:00

Butterick 5260, view A.

Faye's Top #2

2009-11-07T07:26:00.000-08:00

This is the top that I wanted to make specifically for my Chanel inspired jacket. Top #2 for the month of tops. This is McCall's 5708 that I made the protype of earlier. The pattern is well drafted and goes together very well. I love the short sleeve with the little band and I can see that I will probably make this one up again. I'd like to see it done up in black - a classic wardrobe essential. I wore the protype earlier this week with a belt as illustrated on the pattern envelope.

Now on to top #3...

My firs top

2009-11-07T07:15:00.000-08:00

Hello ladies!
Greeting from Zagreb!

I would like to thank Faye for the opportunity to be part of this project. I love to sew, but being part of a creative group is even more exciting and fun!

So, here comes my first project for the Month of tops:

This shirt looks simple, but gave me a bit of headache. You can see why here .

Ciao!
Barbara

2009-11-05T14:10:00.000-08:00

My top first top is actually a protype of one to come. Its made from McCall's 5708 and went together really easily. Hand sewing involved in sewing the tie collar and the little bands on the sleeve. I wanted to eliminate the hand sewing but couldn't figure out how to make it look really neat sewing it by machine.

NOTE: Please bear with me, I've never been a administrator before.

IT'S NOT TO LATE TO JOIN

2009-11-05T13:53:00.000-08:00

NOVEMBER: THE MONTH OF TOPS

The list of people interested in THE MONTH OF TOPS SEW-A-LONG has grown to fourteen (including me).

This sew-a-long is quite simple:

•Choose your fabrics

•Choose your patterns (or self draft)

•Add a new twist to a TNT pattern

•No quotas

•No limits

•You choose how many you want;
AND, JUST ADDED: REFASHIONS DO COUNT....

•and by November 30th we will have a number of added wardrobe options. ...