NL 6952

This is part of my Wardrobe Contest. Here is a link to the storyboard.

Pattern Description: There is no pattern description on the New Look envelope. I never realized that before. Here is my description: Fitted, woven tops with integrated collarband and a variety sleeves including full-length, 3/4 cuffed, ruffled, and sleeveless. I made the 3/4 length sleeveless version.

Pattern Sizing:This is 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18. I made the size 8.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?Yes, very much so. The fabric, of course, is very different but other than that, yes!

Were the instructions easy to follow?Yes, the instructions were very clear and easy to understand. I have made this shirt twice (see this thread on the fitting woes forum) and the placket seems to give most of the reviewers issues. I decided to leave the placket off to reduce bulk and I like buttons to show.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
-Likes: Good wardrobe basic, nice shaping, very easy to sew. I made this is two evenings with my son pestering me. Here he is. He couldn't resist the camera.
-Dislikes: The regular length sleeve is kind of blah. I think they did that so that it would be an "easy" pattern. If they added too much detail they wouldn't have been able to put that rating on it.

Fabric Used:This is an embroidered corduroy in tan brown. It has a teensy bit of stretch. I had to becareful when I cut this so that the little eyelet holes weren't in, um, places I didn't want holes.

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: The only alterations I made were to reduce the length between neck and bust by 1/2". I included pictures of the back piece and the sleeve. When I reduce it, I reduce it all around; the front, back, and the sleeve. You can see from this shot that the bust point fits correctly. I added more buttons and started them higher than they did. They suggest 4 and I did 6. I'm a teacher and bend over a lot.

I did follow the tips of fellow PR.com sewers and sewed my collar a bit differently. If you look in this review I did I asked for suggestions on how to make points, pointy. Several people said to take a few stitches across at the point and then trim. This is what I did and the collar turned out great. I drew with chalk on the interfacing so I could see it. Here is the before and this is where I sewed the seams.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?Yes, I will sew it again. I do recommend to others. I think it is a great basic pattern. I'll probably use this pattern body and add other details and sleeves from other patterns. It fits me well. Here are the back, lifted arm, and crucifixion pose so you can see the fit of the shirt. Different front picture.

Conclusion: I really like this pattern.