Hi!
I hope everyone is keeping warm. Today it is -17 degrees in Chicago. I haven't left the house in two days and am happy not to go out tomorrow or the next day. Both tops were finished late November, 2013. Finally, I'm reviewing them.
I jotted down a few notes about this project and other 2013 projects for fear of forgetting something important. These tops are not short on reviews as there are many posted on Patternreview.com. About 15 reviews. It's funny how the big four recycle the pattern numbers. There is a New Look and another McCall's pattern with the same number. You'll see those reviews at the bottom of the linked list.
McCall 6513
Pattern Description:
MISSES' TOPS: Close-fitting, pullover tops have gathered front and narrow hem. B,C sleeves and C,D back collar: elasticized. Designed for lightweight to medium weight moderate stretch knits.
Pattern Sizing:
6 to 22; 14 with modifications.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes, they did. I made both long sleeves instead of 3/4 length.
Were the instructions easy to follow?
The instructions were easy. Nothing confusing.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
There are a few things I like about the tops. First, everyone knows I am a fan of the Palmer/Pletsch fitting techniques as well as their pattern designs. I really like that the fit instructions are built in the guide sheet along with some helpful tips. I also like the ruching on the sleeves, front, side, and neck. This detail adds style to two simple knit tops. I don't have any dislike.
Fabric Used:
I used moderate knit fabrics with a pebbly texture. Both purchased at Vogue Fabrics on Roosevelt Rd.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I made my usual fit adjustments: FBA, swayback, and prominent shoulder blade adjustment. I also added about 1" to the length of the sleeves. My seam allowances were 1 inch plus. My FBA was a bit too much. Once I got the fit down pat, I noticed a few little wrinkles on the side of the bust (view B (blue)). But I see the same issue on the model in the orange top. For the brown top, view D, the FBA resulted in a bust dart. A horizontal swayback adjustment was not enough on the blue top. I also added vertical darts to the back to take up the bagginess in the lower back area. I always forget to mention that I use steam a seam or stitch witchery to hold my hems in place for care free hemming by machine. This method was used for the neckline of view B, hems for the sleeves and the top.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes, I will probably sew view C again. I especially like this style.
Conclusion: Both tops turned out great. All level sewists should be able to make these tops.
All photos on Flickr.
Both of your tops are lovely and classic. I am sure they will get lots of wear. I can't imagine how cold it is there. The frozen lake even made the news in Sydney Australia today.
ReplyDeletethese are both lovely! I really like all the ruching in the sleeves & sides.
ReplyDeleteThose are both lovely. I'll have to add that pattern to my list. I love that style to wear for work and my wardrobe needs some fresh additions.
ReplyDeleteI'm out here in the western suburbs also freezing my face off. I should be spending these "free" days sewing but I can't find the motivation. Seeing your cute tops may be just the thing I needed.
Both are lovely.
ReplyDelete3Those tops look great, you will really enjoy wearing these.
ReplyDeleteLovely tops, very flattering and they look sooooo comfortable!
ReplyDeleteYou are having a really hard winter in the Northern Hemisphere.
ReplyDeleteYour tops look lovely and suit you nicely.
Pretty tops and Thanks for the review, I purchased that pattern sometime ago. Must move up on my sewing list.
ReplyDeleteThey are great tops with enough details to take them out of the t shirt realm. I never make McCalls patterns, but this one looks like a good choice for the current BVM sale.
ReplyDeleteGreat job on both tops, Cennetta!
ReplyDelete