When I blogged about my black New Look top recently, I advised readers that they could eliminate the back seam for a quicker sew. Having dished out this advice, I thought it only fair to actually sew a version myself, if anything, just to be doubly sure it actually fits over your head!
I used Prada self lined crepe for my first version, which is arguably the most luxurious and beautifully draping fabric I've ever worked with. This time I thought I'd use some Liberty lawn, which has a much crisper hand. The fabric is a gorgeous grey and red design called Strike - the check pattern is actually made up of little matches, hence the name! I bought it from Sew Over It last year, but sadly, they no longer stock it. It's still available on the Liberty website here though if you like it.
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| Back view - without centre back seam |
I'm happy to report that after eliminating the centre back seam, I had no problems at all getting the top over my head, hoorah! This makes it much quicker to sew, although you do lose the cute keyhole opening at the back neck, which was one of the features that first drew me to the pattern. Removing the back seam couldn't be easier: simply overlap the back pattern piece by 5/8" over the folded edge of your fabric (this eliminates the original seam allowance).
Annoyingly, I forgot to lengthen the pattern this time (the first version was lengthened by two inches), and looking at these photos I definitely prefer it longer. It's perfectly wearable though and the original length still gives decent coverage if you want to wear it over trousers.
It's also long enough to tuck in.
Although I like this little top a lot, I've come to the conclusion that the pattern works better with drapier fabric. It's not as glam looking as the first one, but that's fine - it will still get lots of wear. And if you're thinking of sewing this pattern without a centre back seam, take it from me, it works! x
I love the skirt in this post. Could you tell me the pattern please? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteIt's a vintage pattern: Simplicity 3983. I've blogged about it here: http://www.handmadejane.co.uk/2012/10/polka-dot-one-seam-skirt.html and here: http://www.handmadejane.co.uk/2015/03/barkcloth-skirt.html.
DeleteIt's a great pattern if you can find a copy. x
Love this pattern. I made this pattern into some cute t-shirt dresses a while ago, skipped the back seam too. Can't wait to make some more easy but gorgeous t-shirts like this one. I wondered what it would look like in a less drapey fabric but the cotton lawn looks beautiful x
ReplyDeleteThank you! Ooh a T shirt dress version sounds lovely! x
DeleteI love this! the print is awesome on you! I do miss the keyhole detail from your first version though. although im guessing this one was quicker to sew up!
ReplyDeletefrankie
http://knitwits-owls.blogspot.co.uk/
I must admit I miss it too, but it is quite a bit quicker to sew! x
DeleteI love that fabric!!
ReplyDeleteThank you, I agree, it's gorgeous fabric! x
DeleteVery cute - fits you great.
ReplyDeleteThanks Linda! x
DeleteI love the shirt! Of course, I can't see how the fabric drapes, but in photos, it's gorgeous. I really like the print.
ReplyDeleteThank you, I love the print too! x
DeleteNice blouse! It suits you really well, and the fabric is beautiful!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much Nathalie! x
DeleteLove the fabric. Looks great with your red skirt. Did you do an FBA on it or was it ok without?
ReplyDeleteThanks! I didn't need an FBA and I actually cut a size smaller than my measurements suggested. There's a lot of ease in this pattern so probably a good idea to go by the finished measurements. x
DeleteThanks for the advice, I have had this pattern in my collection for a while, I just need to get my sewing head back together and get on with it!
ReplyDeleteLove the Strike fabric, it looks great with your jeans
This would be a good pattern to get back into sewing with, it's nice and easy! x
DeleteIt's definitely all about the fabric, isn't it! (No question mark required.) I'm constantly delighted by how many different looks can be achieved, just by changing fabric choice! Both of these look just lovely on you, Jane. :)
ReplyDeleteAh thanks so much! I agree, it amazes me how two garments made from the same pattern can look so different depending on fabric choice. x
DeleteWhat a cute little top, love that fabric. You could always add a contrast band round the bottom if you want it longer, though actually I think it looks great tucked in.
ReplyDeleteWonderful shape of top. It makes the line of shoulders gentle. The pattern looks really unique.
ReplyDeleteSuper cute fabric! Works beautifully without the centre back seam. Gotta love a time saving hack!!!
ReplyDeleteSo first step complete: pattern purchased (at half price!), now just need to select something from my rather large fabric stash and make up......(this Spring hopefully!)
ReplyDeleteI love your fabric, I have now made this top three times after seeing your crepe version. I made mine without the loop as I discovered that it goes over the head without one You are right. It's a valuable pattern as there is so much scope here for an entire wardrobe if you wished,
ReplyDeleteAargh - for some reason my neck binding is just not working.having to unpick and rethink but without understanding exactly why it's going wrong. So frustrating as I like the shape. Help anyone?!
ReplyDeleteI know this post was a little while ago... But I have made this top twice and can't work out how to do the binding. Please can you help Jane?
ReplyDelete