This is just about the easiest sewing pattern I’ve ever attempted. Which makes me happy, because this type of shirt is just my style and I love it! There is no lining to the top, it is just comprised of all casings to put your elastic through (the sleeves, neckline, and under the bust) and a hem at the bottom. What could be easier?
Fabric – After my last debacle with the Echino scooters fabric, I wanted to try this pattern out with a cheaper fabric to make sure that I would like it. I got this Robert Kaufman pink skulls fabric on clearance at Joann’s for $1.50 per yard. For my size, I used 1-1/2 yards, so this was an inexpensive project. I thought the fabric was sort of reminiscent of Pepto Bismol, so I broke up all that pink with a Moda black polka dot fabric underneath the bust (for the elastic casing) and at the bottom of the top.
Pattern Pieces – I made the short-sleeved top option, so there were only 3 pattern pieces to cut out. If you are making the long sleeved options or the ones trimmed with lace, your construction will be a little more in-depth, but the short-sleeved was definitely the easiest and least amount of steps. There is also a guide to cut out for the waist and neck elastics, so you know how long to cut the elastic based on your size. I guess I have a freakishly small chest, though, because I had to cut both of these elastics 5-7″ smaller than what the elastic guide told me to (I could have fit about 4 more boobs inside my top when I tried it on).
Illustrations/Instructions – The instructions were very easy, however, I have a problem with the major pattern manufacturers (Simplicity, Butterick, McCalls, etc.) in that I feel they are not beginner-friendly. If you are learning to sew, these patterns are definitely not the easiest to understand. They give you the bare minimum in order to construct their projects (whereas Amy Butler is wordy and tells you exactly what to do). However, I still feel that a beginner would be able to navigate through this based on how easy it is.
The only modifications that I made to the pattern was that I put my bust elastic on the outside of main fabric (the instructions called for you to put it on the wrong side of your fabric). I did this because I wanted the black polka dot fabric to be seen. Also, I added the polka dot trim at the bottom of the top. I will probably continue to put the casing on the exterior of the fabric when I make more tops, and the trim maybe, depending on if I have any good coordinating fabrics.
Conclusion – This is a great, great project…maybe it’s not your taste, but if it is, you have to make it…it’s so easy, and I love mine. My husband actually gave it the thumbs-up, too. I saw that some people who had reviewed it said it looked like a maternity top, but mine doesn’t at all…it’s pretty much perfect. Even though winter is coming, I plan to layer my top over a long-sleeved cotton shirt. I’m probably going to make about 20 more. 🙂
P.S. Like sewing? Want to see more projects? I participate in Amy Lou Who’s Sew and Tell Friday every week, and I would love to see you there!
That IS a really cute top. Very impressive!
I agree with you about pattern directions. When I first started to sew, I was so lost. Now I can read almost anything, with exceptions of course.
Anyway, I really love that top on you and the prints have amazing contrast. I never look good in empire waist or peasant tops but this picture makes me wish I did!
Good Job!
How fun is this! Love the black polka dot! I admire anyone who sews clothing!
So cute!
Great top!! I may just have to buy that pattern!
Blessings,
KT
Adorable! It looks so comfy!
Great blouse! I love how the black polka dot fabric sets off the pink. Good job!
this looks great…fun fabric
Adorable top! I think your changes have made it even prettier than the pattern.
LOL! At first I thought this was a vintage pattern…my the 70s are back!
Your shirt is very cute. Great fabrics.
Your top is adorable. A peasant top is a great first sewing project. Adding the black polka dot contrast makes it look so nice.
I’ve looked at this pattern many times, but wasn’t sure i could pull it off. I’m nursing. Need I say more? Maybe if I could lengthen the bust part to make more room… or not pull the elastic as tight?
You write great pattern reviews!
This is a great top! The black looks fabulous!
I am lost to those directions too.
I wonder how it would look in voile or cotton lawn.
This shirt looks awesome on you! I would definitely look pregnant in it, but that would be more the fault of my figure than the shirt. LOL!
I love the black and white polka dot accents. It really pulls evrything together. A very cute top!
Love how that came out! I made the Megan Peasant from Sis Boom last summer and its really similar. Its one of my favorite summer tops. Great job! 🙂
It’s so pretty and i love the fabric you picket. I love this style and might just take you up on giving it a go.
I do really like this top! Might have to seek this pattern out, perfect for our summer coming up. Really like your addition of the polka dot trim. Thanks for the great pattern review and I agree with you about what you said about the general pattern instructions compared to Amy Butlers instructions.
I am working on this same pattern and am having a hard time with how to put a casing in under the bust. I really want to get this one done, but have “stalled” …..HELP! About me, I have been sewing some of my clothes now for a few years, I am still a beginner. Susan
I can be found at [email protected] Thanks!
Hi again. Can you tell me where to buy sale fabric like yours, I’m new on this, I’m a big size and not much money to test.
Thanks.
Rosa
Hi Susan! This is Caesar, your sister Karen’s husband, I have been looking for her contact. please help send my wife’s contact information and as well help me give her my contact information. she will find me on facebook and my email is [email protected] thank you very much Sue. Say hi to your mother Verna.