Wednesday, July 8, 2015

Butterick 5954 Knit Top - OOP but shouldn't be!


OK, I am in love with this knit tunic pattern. And I had to wait to get it - it's out of print and has been in my wishlist for a long time because OOP patterns are so expensive. Finally, BMV put all their OOP's on sale. And it's mine!


I think all the choices are wonderful - something for every season and time of day. And lots of opportunity for mixing things up.


With a nod to my fellow sewists on Pattern Review, all the lovely versions there really helped me envision what I might do with the pattern. For the most part, I was after a little less fullness in the skirt, particularly in the back. And I wanted to avoid an FBA. But I also wanted to keep the sculpted effect that is so figure-flattering. Sewing notes:



  • I sewed the size Medium (12-14), my usual in the Big 4.
  • The fabric is Goldenrod Sew Classic cotton/poly interlock knit from JoAnns.
  • I removed acreage from the center back seam and both side seams, from the bottom edge and cured up, to take out a bit of the swing in the skirt.
  • And I added a bit at the mid-torso for ease in the bust and waistline.


This is an uncomplicated redraft, because the swing is so apparent on the pattern pieces.




A note on the hemline. It has a lot of curve - it's all curve - so I turned it up 1/2" with Steam-a-Seam. Having the fabric secured, plus the little bit of extra heft from the tape, made topstitching so easy.


Here's my muslin, the sleeveless version, done in a very lightweight rayon/cotton knit. What a fun change from a tank or tee. IMHO the higher neckline and swing in the skirt really add punch to this pattern.



If you look closely, you'll see a PATCH on the skirt back :-) I got the whole thing sewn and found a small hole in the fabric. Made lemonade...decided it's a design feature.

Inside

Outside
I'm so happy with this pattern - I've already cut out 2 more with the sleeves. It's incredibly comfortable, a great length, and I feel pretty in it. 


Other news...

I got turned out of bed at 3:30 this morning to take Darrin and Ashley to the airport! They're half-way across the country by now, sleeping I'm sure. 


I'm writing in company with Kitty Nikita and Kitty Callisto - we have Wimbledon tennis on the tube. Perfect day. Wishing you one as well.

Ciao! Coco

Edited 7/11/2015...it's back in print! Just saw it on BMV.com

24 comments:

  1. This shapes great-I loves swishy tail!

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  2. The gold is really pretty on you.

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    1. Thanks so much. I love this color, just happy.

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  3. Those are such a good look for you, isn't it great when you find something so right?

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    1. Thanks, Ann. And yes - I made 2 more (red and green) last week at my daughter's house! they're quick to sew on a serger.

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  4. I love both of these and had to laugh about the patch -- I've had to do that more than once:) Also, thanks for the visual of how you altered the pattern -- very helpful. Enjoy babysitting the kitties!

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    1. Angela, thank you! I had a good week, the kitties were fun and spent all their time with me - I'm flattered!

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  5. Very flattering top! I can see why you want more.

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  6. It looks nice with your alterations! I can't imagine it any other way.

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    1. Thank you, Dorothy. Strange, isn't it, how just a small change makes such a difference in how something hangs.

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  7. Oh wow, I'm bummed I didn't get that one on sale! What a great look! Enjoy your new tops!

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    1. Thanks! and I checked again, because it's back in Butterick's regular rota! I added a note in the post above, but you might not have seen it. Now - when BMV puts Butterick on sale, it should be there...

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  8. Those tops hang beautifully! No, that pattern shouldn't be OOP.

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    1. Thank you, Judi. I added to my post, Butterick has put this back in print! good idea...

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  9. Great tunic! It fits so beautifully.

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  10. Love your tops & would definitely wear those. I have this pattern, don't know why I have tried it yet.

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    1. Thanks, Beverly - I think this would look great on you!

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  11. That's so funny- I just pulled this pattern out last weekend to make too! I will definitely incorporate your alterations into my version. You look wonderful in yellow!

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    1. Thanks, Ann - can't wait to see your versions, your sewing is always so lovely.

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  12. Thank you, Valerie. Are you cold down there? I read it's been cold...enjoy!

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  13. Love this top. I have this pattern and was sort of "meh" about it until I saw your take on it. I now see several versions that I want to make.

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I love it that you came by...and thank you for your comments! Coco