I have been almost exclusively wearing separates these days. So incorporating a sweater into my wardrobe was much needed. At the same time I was preparing to make this top, I was preparing for my It’s Sew Easy TV presentations, so I chose a solid fabric in a color I feel confident in for good measure. And, in the end, its become one of my go-to tops!
The pattern is Simplicity 8950. I love that it’s a basic drop shoulder design, very forgiving in the fit department, and still has all these unique design options you can add or leave out.
I chose to make the center front rouching detail but instead of cutting the shorter length which would show some belly, I just applied the same treatment to the longer, hip length version. Once you learn how to create this detail, you’ll realize that you can really apply this detail to just about anywhere on any pattern.
What I might love best about it is that it’s still 100% adjustable. I can add the rouching to just the bust like I’m showing you here. Or I can flatten out the bust rouching and just gather it on the lower half. You can make your top really short or spread out the gathers so your top is a little longer.
I used a grosgrain ribbon for mine. And, to seal off the ends, I got these things called ribbon ends from the jewelry section at joann. You can see they have little hooks on the end where you’re supposed to add a jump ring and a clasp, but you can’t see that from far away and even if you could, I don’t think it would be distracting. Finishing off the ribbons with a this little bit of hardware gives the whole sweater a luxurious and well-finished vibe.
The V neckline is something I would struggle with a little bit. But, it’s actually so so simple. I sewed the whole thing on my serger and it went in without a hitch. Sewing vnecks on knits it so much easier than wovens.
the sleeve is a little long, which I should have realized after looking at the sample make on the model. But, that’s an easy enough fix. I would rather have them longer than too short, so not a deal breaker for me.
I also appreciate the width of the sleeve. Sometimes the ease in the sleeve can be so wide…looking at you McCalls’! But, this one is comfortable but still semi-fitted.
It’s really a great pattern and I can’t wait to make some of the other versions!
The fabric I used is a stash fabric. I can’t remember where I got it. It’s pretty non-distinct. But, It’s a light to mid-weight sweater knit. You could use a variety of fabrics for this top. Everything from a sweater knit like I used to a lighter weight french terry. For the version with the elbow patches, I’d actually recommend something a little heavier or with a higher weave like a light weight ponte or a sweatshirt fleece.
So, what do you think of my new sweater? I’ve been wearing it pretty exclusively with these green/gray pull on pants I thrifted, but I also think it’d be great with a skirt or over a dress since I can pull up that rouching to reveal my waistline without adding any bulk.
Well, that’s going to do it for me today!
Thank you all so much for watching! I’ll see you very soon! Bye!
