I am finally getting into my pattern making groove. Over the past few months I’ve been enjoying bring other peoples patterns to life in my own way, however, this week I decided to create my own pattern.
I love to pattern make from blocks and this top was no exception. I adapted the cami block that I created in my first blog post to create this new shape. You could create this same shape from any cami pattern that you have in your stash that has a similar neckline shape without to much trouble.
My fabric choice for this make was a romantic light weight 100% Viscose from The Fabric Store. With my next few makes I am looking at a bigger wardrobe picture. My aim is to form a little mini collection of piece that can be mixed and matched with each other.
The neckline shape was adjusted from the original block to be a V neck and I added a button facing down centre front. My facing was 2cm wide which was 0.5cm wider than my button.
To create the feature panel around the top of the bodice, I traced off the top of the front and back bodice pieces and drew a facing that was 5cm wide adding a little shaping for the apex. I slashed and added in 3mm at 2 points along the front and back to allow the panel to sit away from the main body of the top slightly.
The top panel was bagged out in self fabric and sewn onto the top edge of the cami. Shoulder straps where then added and the top edge of the cami was finished off with a self fabric internal bind. Button holes where sewn and as always I used my machine to sew on the buttons. If your not currently doing this with your buttons I strongly ergo you to give it a go. You save so much time!
I have also recently purchased a roll hem foot for my Bernina and it has been a game changer. I am able to achieve a beautifully finished narrow roll hem that is impossible to do with your fingers. I highly recommend this foot if roll hems are part of your sewing.
Whenever sewing a garment from your own pattern it’s important to make a toile in similar cheap fabric just to ensure the fit is correct before cutting your real fabric. This step takes a little extra time but is very necessary. If you get your pattern right you will have a good foundation for another garment. I’m thinking of turning this top into a dress a some point.
I’m wanting to dabble my toes in the PDF pattern world and may release this pattern as a free PDF pattern to test the waters.
This is a beautiful wardrobe staple that has been meticulously made. Thank you for sharing your final method for constructing this garment. I would encourage you to release PDF patterns – you have great style!
Thank you! My dream is to release some patterns. Hopefully I will get there soon.