Two, Count 'Em Two, New Tops

As promised here are photos of the two tops I made this weekend. I will add them to my reviews at http://www.patternreview.com/ this evening.

Simplicity 2841 - Women's Plus Tunics

Pattern View My Version
Close Up of Yoke

This is actually the second one I sewed on Saturday night. It is not the view shown on the pattern photo (with the sort of "keyhole" yoke) but the second one shown. I made it from a cotton and lurex fabric I got on clearance this fall. Something about it seemed "Christmas-y", although now that it is made, perhaps St. Patrick's Day would be more appropriate!

I started with a dark green paisley print for the yoke, but could not get it set in correctly. I finally tossed it and cut another yoke from a piece of complementary fabric. I had four one inch strips of the dark green left, so I ironed a crease in it and set it under the new yoke. What I finally did, because the directions made absolutely no sense to me, was to then overlay the yoke on the top, pin into place, and sew into place. I then used three different threads - a dark green buttonhole twist (from the 80's??!!), a metallic dark green, and a medium green rayon - to decorate the yoke. I used the curvey S stitch, and each time I went around, I switched the stitche length and width to get different types of "s" designs.

It is very loose, and now that I see the photo I may put the elastic in the cuff to draw that in a bit. But it is comfortable and will be great both summer and winter (with long johns under!).


Dana Marie's Xceptional Shirt - 1036


Pattern View My Version
I LOVE THIS TOP!!!!


I love this top. I originally cut it out in late February or early March, with the intent of making it to take to Vancouver with me. I ran out of time, then the weather caught up with me and I did not get it made. I was determined to get it done over Thanksgiving weekend however. It took a lot longer than I thought it would - there are facings on the hems and sleeves, as well as the back "V" that have to be interfaced and then sewn on, then topstitched in place. However, it was worth all the work.

I was concerned about the buttons and buttonholes on this angled front, so I put snaps on instead - and it works well. I stitched the buttons on top of the snaps on the front, and I think it looks great.

I wore it out to the grocery and a quick trip to the bookstore tonight, and got three compliments on the top from strangers. So it must be a good selection! I will be making more.

So that is my collection from Thanksgiving weekend - two tops and a purse - not bad.