Missing the mark
This is one of those makes where the vision in my head and the finished garment didn’t collide.
How magnificent is that beach in the background? Okay, enough of the small talk, let’s get down to business… the few mornings that I’ve reached for this top it’s been put on, taken off and set aside. At home in front of the mirror, the pajama vibes are strong…. sob, sob, sob.
The pattern was one I’d had success with before, but in this instance, my fabric choice missed the mark. I’m really sad that this top didn’t work out as I used some precious loop-back Liberty french terry that the very kind Jane purchased on my behalf in Japan last year. More sobbing.
In my eyes, where I went wrong was the binding. The colour match is great, but the only place that I’ve recently seen patterned fabric with coordinating solid binding is when Miss A and Miss B wear their Hatley pajamas.
I think it’s fair to say that fabric choice/combinations can make or break a sewing project.
Not all is lost though, as my ‘failed’ jersey projects often become much loved and worn house clothes and/or sleepwear. My first pair of Hudson pants are an excellent case in point and I predict this liberty top will follow suit.
Pattern: McCall’s 6992 (View D)
Size: 12 graded to a 14 at the bust
Fabric: Liberty french terry purchased in Japan (thanks Jane)
Alterations: 3/8″ (1cm) forward shoulder adjustment, removed 2″ (5cm) from the sleeve length, graded out a size in the bust on both the front and back pattern pieces, lowered the front neckline by 1 3/4″ (4cm) and added 3/8″ (1cm) to the width of the sleeve cuff.
Accessories: Scarf borrowed from Sharon and boots from Florsheim
Location: Warrambool
From the back view I thought it was going to be a button up shirt. That’s where a contrasting cuff can look quirky cool, but I’m inclined to agree that on a pullover they make it instantly pyjama-ish.
Can you go for a 3/4 hemmed sleeve? Or you just go ahead and lounge in your Liberty! If anyone can get away with such fancy housewear you can!
I’m not usually one for going back and altering things, so fancy housewear it will be! Lesson learnt.
It’s lovely, but I totally get where you’re coming from! You know I think we should all have luxury pyjamas, because just think how much we wear them. From a cost-per-wear point of view it’s so worthwhile!
Yes, I’m all for luxury pjs as you’re right… we spent so much time in them!
C’est la vie – enjoy your swish loungwear!
Honestly, I would just cut the threads and take the bands off. shirttail/rolled hem. Or use black bias tape to cover the rough edges. The neck isn’t too low and the sleeves aren’t too short. Make sleeves and neck match the bottom hem, so to speak. But that’s me. I have little use for PJs.
As is, it’s really cute on you and could be an awesome road trip top. Nicely done.
I hadn’t thought of bias tape… I think you might be onto something there.
Will do!
Huh! I would totally just change the ribbing, that’s such an easy fix! That Liberty is way too nice to just stay in the house imo. But each to their own and you look fabulous. Xo
Thanks Mie. I’m terrible at revisiting projects, but you’re right, this one is too precious not to save.