Wrapped Up and Skirting Around in New Look 6029, McCall's 6842, and Rhonda's Circle Skirt

Good afternoon everyone!

I hoped everyone had a great Father's Day weekend. It was a little sad for me. My dad passed in 2006. I spent some time remembering funny stories and words of wisdom that he shared during our many long conversations. Anyway, I hope you enjoyed your time with family and friends.

This week I will review several patterns. Some are for projects made several months ago and a few recent projects. Today I will start with three reviews: New Look 6029-C. This pattern is about 10 years old. So it may be out of print. McCall's 6842, which was published last year. My skirt was finished in January. And finally, Rhonda's Circle skirt which was also finished in January.

Warning: This post is lengthy and has several photos.

Let me start with New Look 6029-C.

I made two wrap tops. I really like this top. It's perfect for summertime and can worn under a nice blazer/cardigan on cooler days. And I think this is a good style for me.

New Look does not provide a description. The pattern includes a tank top, a sleeveless wrap top with tie, knit coat, straight skirt and pants. The sizing is from 6 to 16.

My tops do look like the one on the cover. But I think the drawing of the slender model makes it look longer than it actually is.

There were no confusing instructions. There were several steps I did not follow because I preferred a different method. Or I needed to address a fit issue.

I actually like all of the pieces to this pattern. They are good staples for any wardrobe. Years ago I tried the tank top. It produced a gapping armhole. So I suspected the wrap top would too. It did. So be aware that this may be an issue for you too.

My changes were:

- FBA - Adding the the length of the back. It was a little short in the muslin version.

- For the neck band and the armhole facings, I used McCall 6793. The neckline was used as the neckband double the length. I did shorten both about an inch or so.

- For the gapping armhole, I follow Diana Sewing Lesson to correct the problem. I did not apply the twill tape.

My selected fabrics: a spandex knit from Supreme Novelty Fabrics (red) and a matte jersey from Hancock (green). No problem with sewing either. The spandex has more stretch than the jersey.

I will definitely use this pattern again. Like I said, the other views are can be used to make staple garments for any wardrobe. And I recommend it to all sewists. I'm glad I tried the wrap top. It's easy to sew with a few modifications. Make a muslin before you cut into your fashion fabric to make sure the fit and length are right for you.

Okay. Now onto my second review. McCall's 6842.

I made view B. I adore this pattern. The skirt has that swing affect going on.

McCall's describes this skirt as Misses' skirts: skirts have contour waist, yoke variation, back zipper, and narrow hem. The sizes are from 6 to 22.

The skirt certainly looks like the view on the envelope. The instructions were easy to follow. I do recommend that you carefully reinforce the inward corners of yoke front as described to ensure that the seams are the same on both sides. Also, it is so easy to fit. I added a little more to the side seam allowances just in case. When fitting, complete steps 1 through 4. Pin front and back yoke together to try it on. Make adjusts as needed. Then make the adjustments to your waistline facing and the lower portion of the skirt. I will make this skirt again. I have no dislikes.

For this first skirt, I used a ponte knit. (Yeah, it's a little on the heavy side for summer temps. But perfect for spring, fall, and winter.) Originally, I thought I would pair it with a beige cardigan and ivory T. Summer rolled around before I had a chance to wear it.

In conclusion, this is an easy skirt to make. The hardest parts are making sure the seaming is balance at the inward corners and finishing the hem. This is a circle skirt. Once the waist is finished the hem hangs uneven. I recommend that you allow it to hang for a few days before finishing it.

Now, for Rhonda's circle skirt.

I decided I would give it a try just because. My original intention was to make an Anthropologie skirt I'd seen online. I have not tried that yet. Maybe later this year. maybe..,

See Rhonda's Sew News post for the instructions and description. The instructions were easy to follow and she provides photos and drawings to help guide you through the process. You can make variations of the circle skirt based on your personal preference. I like the idea of having options to make whatever you want. This is why I so interested in learning more about drafting.

No alterations are required. It's all based on your measurements and style preference. I recommend that you give it a try. That's all for now!

Parting Shot:  Don't forget to holding your skirt when a gust of wind comes along!

Happy Sewing,
Cennetta