One of my favorite garments to wear are these quick relaxed fit tops! Usually linen or soft cotton in the summer. Just fun to stitch one up and pair with a drapey pant or a skirt. Here are the basics so you can head into your studio and make one!
Above is my garment shape with measurements. This is very roomy for a medium size person with a bust (with added width for the pleats). To Start: you can fold and cut a paper pattern, using these measurements or a basic pattern shape close to this. My River Tunic Pattern works, and is available in paper or as a PDF. A favorite garment in your wardrobe can work too.
Great Fabric is next: Work with something you love! Maybe something you printed or several pieces sewn together for the size you need. Once the starting shape is cut out...cut a neck hole. Once the hole will fit over your head...play with the shape: maybe cut it more irregular...or angular to go with your fabric design. Keep in mind to leave enough for a seam allowance or hem. Here are a few shapes below. For my design the opening is larger than needed since the shoulder will come up and over part of the neck hole. Once you have an opening you like, finish the neck hole: make a facing, binding or consider if the raw edge is right for what you are making.
This neck opening, bigger than I wanted, even after the pleated folds. This cool design detail worked well! I made 2 stripes to cross the neck opening and attached them under the neck hole in the back and front. The snap on the second strip was to be able to get it over the head.
Details that work for you: Besides a garment needing to fit a certain way...there are those things that make it a go-to piece in your wardrobe....so what is your short list? Mine usually includes a pocket or 2. The one added here is a big floppy one that can be my walking storage. Maybe yours needs a flap, cool button or ties. The folds and stitching on the front continue over the shoulder onto the back.
This design can be a great project for building your draping confidence.
Finishing: Hemming is last. After the pleating and a try-on, the hemline should relate to the garment and maybe the volume of fabric. This time, it's asymmetrical to emphasis the dropped pocket and slits at the other side. Machine or hand stitching doesn't always have to be a focus...I added some hand stitching in a muted grey thread to blend in...ah, but I know it is there!
This is so comfy...it is the first of many variations for my summer wardrobe.
Celebrate Fabric & Enjoy the Sew........Diane
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