Home's Jewels: October 2011

What a process, whew! This had previously been my favorite TNT top pattern, but the pattern was misplaced. I forgot that the pattern had been altered quite a bit to become my favorite pattern. So, I bought a new pattern and the following are my working notes:

Fabric requirements: 1-2/3 yards 60-in. wide for 3/4 length sleeve
1-1/2 for short sleeve

1st top = hot pink = Made Size 16. Shaped to 18 at hips. Added 4-1/4 in. in length (because I'm TALL). Turned out way too big!!! Back to the drawing table. Neckline was too low - revealing my bra when bending over. Gap in back neckline, wrinkly back and too loose under armholes. Wadder! (This knit is a rib knit with not much recovery - bad choice!)

Way too loose in the back - gaping neck, excess under arms


Too long, too big, way too low in front especially if I bend over

2nd top = green top: Redrew neckline, raising it about an inch, went down a size. Still loose under arm, still gape at back and neckline. This was another rib knit with poor recovery.

Still too big in back

This fabric was horrible to work with - a cheap knit rib. Never again!

3rd top = orange multi 3/4-length top: Ok, this is a success! (cotton blend knit)

In addition to raising the neckline about one inch (from before), I altered the neckline again because felt the neck opening was too wide.
Took in 1/4 inch width from armholes.
Pinched a tuck in the back neckline about 1/4 inch to solve the gaping neck problem.
Reduced the added length from 4-1/4 to 3-1/4 in.. Previous adjustment was too long.
Added 3/8- in. width to neckline binding piece.
Decreased length of binding piece by total of 2 inches.