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blue-eyed girl top

Have you been following this year's Spring Top Sew-Along at Made by Rae?  For the last several years I've scoured the photo pools but never actually made something to contribute ... until now!

It has been a long time since I've tried to sew something for myself and I have to say, I'm pleasantly surprised!  I drafted the pattern from one of my favorite shirts, and after sewing so many tiny clothes, woman-sized pattern pieces look almost comically large. 

  
A few things I like about this shirt:  It is super soft and comfortable, and the loose style is very forgiving on my still lumpy postpartum body.  I got the jersey fabric at that strange $1/yard fabric store in Solvang, CA that I've mentioned before, so this shirt cost just a little over $1.  Score.  Plus, I finally learned how to use my double needle for the hem.  Hooray for learning new things!

The waistline is gathered slightly with one row of elastic thread, giving it a little shape.  I also gathered the top of the sleeve with elastic thread - just one line across the top arc of the sleeve piece.  I've never thought to gather a sleeve that way, but it is perfect for knit fabric.

What I don't love:  the elastic in the neckline.  It was not part of the original plan, but became a necessity when I cut the neckline too big.  Oops.  I still like it, but it's a bit more peasant-y than I imagined.  I'll just try again!

Anyway, that's my top.  I might try another one before the sew-along pool closes this weekend.  


Cora was blessed with the Maddox family blue eyes.  Isn't she getting deliciously squishy?