Top Tops Abound - McCall 6963 and Simplicity 1916

 
I'm reviewing two more knit top patterns. My goal is to make different styles that will work with a variety of skirt, pant, and jacket combinations.  One of my wardrobe observations is that some tops don't work well with certain jackets or cardigans.  Then there are a few different colors I want to add to my wardrobe as well.


I really like the drape neck knit tops and the surplice/faux wrap knit tops. So I decided to try both using McCall and Simplicity patterns. 

First, I'd like to review McCall 6963.

This pattern has variations in the amount of drape, which I like a lot.  In any instances the drape increases if a FBA is needed. 

McCall's describes this patterns as:  MISSES' TOPS: Close-fitting, pullover tops have draped front neckline variations, narrow hem on back neckline, and stitched hems. A: armhole bands.


It comes in sizes 8 to 24; I used 14 with modifications.

My top does look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope.  I made view C.  The instruction were easy, and I did not have any problem following them.

I like:

• Shorter drape to start with.  After the FBA is done its does not fall too low. 

• Alteration lines drawn on the pattern that help speed up the fit process.
• Simple staple knit top.

I have no dislike.

My fabric is a Bazilian knit  from Supreme Novelty fabrics, near down town Chicago.  It's been in my stash for a few years.   It is a low-wrinkle fabric with a great amount of stretch

I made a FBA. I didn't make to large enough thinking the stretch of the fabric would compensate.  Instead I ending up with some drag marks across the front.  They are not bad, but does draw some attention.  So for the next top I will add a little more width.  The only other change I made was a sway back adjustment.  Nothing more.

I recommend this pattern to others.  It a good staple with optional drape and sleeve lengths.

This is an easy fit top that all level sewists can make.  Alterations lines are conveniently added to the tissue pattern, which make it easy to make fit adjusts.

 

 

My next top is Simplicity 1916.  This pattern has been around for awhile.  Many reviews posted online.  Some people elected to raise the neckline while some did not.  Here is my review.

This pattern contains misses' knit mock wrap top with sleeve variations. I made view A.  The pattern sizes are from 6 to 24.

The model is wearing view B.  It does not appear to be as low in the front on her as it is on me.  Other than that I think it does look exactly like the photos on the envelope.

I actually like all views of it.  I wanted to try my favorite first this time. ;-)  No dislikes. The instructions are typical and easy to follow.

My fabric is also from my stash and was purchased at New Rainbow Fabrics on Roosevelt Rd.  It is a little slippery and very stretchy.  I had just a little challenge with handling the fabric.  No problems sewing it.  I used a jersey needle (size 10).

Changes:

• I did make a FBA, similar to McCall 6163
• Prominent Shoulder Blades adjustment
• Swayback adjustment

I will make it again.  Next time I'll bring the neckline up an inch or two.

That's it for now!
Cennetta