Pattern Review NL6893 Satin Halter

Here's another one from the cut-out-but-not-sewn pile. This went together fast and easy- perfect for a project to finish in a couple of hours.

Pattern Description: This pattern is for halter tops with five different variations. I made view B, which is the one the model is wearing on the envelope. It has a front pleat and knot.

Pattern Sizing: This comes in sizes 6-16. I made the 16.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes!

Were the instructions easy to follow? This pattern is very easy and the instructions are fine. I think a beginner could easily pull this one off.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like simple, flowy tops to wear in the warm weather. I liked the shape of this halter. The front pleat makes it extra flowy.

No dislikes.

Fabric Used: Polyester satin fabric. Not sure where I got this one- it was in the stash.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I lengthened the top by 1 1/2 inches. I've learned that I prefer my tops to be just a tad longer than most patterns allow. I sewed this one up after having my baby. I was afraid the 16 might be a little snug in the bust. So I only did a 1/4 inch seam on the sides. This adjustment was just right.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? This is actually the second version I have made with this pattern. I probably will use this one again for another view.

Conclusion: Simple and fast top to make! I think it came out really cute!




~Jenny

Pattern Review B5335 Large Collar Jacket

I've had my eye on this pattern ever since I laid eyes on Mimi's version on Pattern Review. So cute!

Pattern Description: This is a sportswear pattern that offers the jacket, top, capris, pants, and a skirt.

Pattern Sizing: This pattern is available in sizes 8-22. I made a 16.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, I think so.

Were the instructions easy to follow? The instructions were very easy, I did not run into any difficulties making the jacket.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like the large collar with the drawstring. I like the pleated sleeves. I also like the back band; however, like other reviewers, I found that I needed to shorten it quite a bit.

One dislike is the pockets. And I think I read this in another review too. The pockets are too small to be functional. I think this could easily be remedied without effecting the rest of the jacket. So if you like to bury your hands in the jacket pockets or want stash away some keys or lip gloss- make the pockets a little deeper.

Fabric Used: Cotton chambray from Joann Fabrics. I used a polyester lining from their Simply Silky collection. The jacket also required large snaps. I don't know how much I paid for everything since this was in my fabric stash but I know the whole project was under $20.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: This was in my cut but unsewn pile while I was pregnant. Therefore, it was cut in my pre-baby size of 16. I think I'm more of an 18 now but this jacket has lots of ease so I didn't find this to be a problem.

I listened to the warnings about shortening the length of the back band. As drafted, it is way to droopy in back. I initially shortened it by 3 inches. However, after trying on the jacket, it was still too saggy so I hacked off another 3 inches.

I made a few changes after reading Amanda's blog. I omitted the snaps on the collar- I agree that they are not necessary. I top stitched the sleeve pleats on the outside to keep them in place. However, I wish I would have sewn them on the inside like Amanda- this would have been a cleaner look.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I might use this pattern for the capris or the knit top. I don't think I will make another jacket since it is so unique. But then again, it would be fun to do one in a bright and funky color or print.

Conclusion: Cute, light weight jacket for the warmer months. I don't think my fabric choice gave the jacket justice. It is a little too soft and drapey. For the collar to really stand out and be more poofy- I slightly stiffer fabric is needed.






~Jenny