Finally Finished with Simplicity 2633

It took me much longer than anticipated to finish this shirt/vest. During the process, I waffled back and forth on whether I should finish it because the neckline appeared to be too wide and the princess seam were not as smooth as I would like them to be. But once I attached the neckband and the collar, I decided it was worth the effort to finish the project.

Pattern Description: Misses' shirts and vest with neckline variations. Project Runway pattern. Looking at the instruction sheet I saw this as a short sleeve jacket with ultra cute sleeves. And that is basically how I fashioned my version of the first view.

Pattern Sizing: Sizes 4 to 22. I used size 14 with modifications.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, for the most part. My version fits so I can wear a knit top underneath it. Plus I added the flaps using the pattern for the pink view.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes. There were no difficult steps.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
Likes - The first three views illustrated in the instructions.
- The pleated sleeves.
Dislikes - May all be attributed to alterations made and my fabric choice.

Fabric Used: Stretch sateen gift from my friend. I thought it would be the perfect fabric for the "shirt/jacket".

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
FBA - I made my usual FBA. After looking at the photo of me in it I noticed the extra fabric at the armhole of the front princess seam. This will be addressed in the next version.

Neckline - Before I attached the neckband and collar, I noticed the neckline sits below the base of the neck. Initially, I thought this was due to less than perfect pattern drafting. But in retrospect I thinking is may be due to the fabric and my prominent shoulder blades. Adjustments were made to add more space in the shoulder area. The collar stands too far from my neck.

You can see the gap at the underarm front and the neckline.




Special note: You have to fiddle with the sleeves a bit. A beginner can managed them with a little patience.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, I'm going to sew it again for myself and DD. Yes I recommend it to others.

Conclusion: Overall I like this pattern. I just need to make a few minor adjustments for my next version. Here is more on the process.

This version will be worn like a jacket over a knit top. Here are more photos on Flickr.