I made a top inspired by these photos.
It is a tailored-blocky-semi-cropped-black top. I really enjoy wearing high waisted pants and thought it would be perfect with a top like this.
This took me 3 days to make –
Day 1 – Traced beloved old cotton top, cut pattern blocks and cut out fabric. Wednesday 21/7/2021
Day 2 – Attached interfacing to front and back panels as well as two back panels, hem the bottom edge. Thursday, 22/7/ 2021 – went to bed at 2am.
Day 3 – Attached the sides and top stitched the arm holes and neck holes and hand sewed on the button. Saturday 24/7/2021.
My favourite parts of this top:
- The button loop detail!!
- The cut of the top is flattering and goes with most my clothes.
Some things I learnt from making this top:
- I can create patterns using tops I find flattering on me – I found a cotton top that I have worn to death and found I could pair with everything.
- French seams are worth the time invested – A work around for those who do not have a serger.
- Pin all around the neck line and arm holes to ensure when top stitching to ensure the final result is nice and neat.
- Measure yourself as you go:
- ensure the widest part of your chest is equal to the widest part of the bodice.
- ensure the opening around your neck hole is larger or equal to the circumference of your head.
- My scissors tweezer were so helpful to fold in raw edges into the french seam, leaving a big lip makes it easier to tuck in the raw edges.
Things that I would do differently:
- I would extend the facing block, I made it too short and it hit me in a very awkward spot.
- I would top stitch the neck hole before attaching the two back panels.
- I would use this same pattern, in a summer fabric and crop up the top and add straps.
Thanks for dropping by and have a lovely day.
Teresa x
Teresa Dang 