A Cardigan and Tee in Wool Jersey

This cardigan started as a knockoff of an outfit that I saw on Lafayette 148's site. When I found the wool jersey on the website, I knew it would make a great version of my inspiration outfit.

However, when I unfolded the fabric, it was very light...too light for what I had in mind. Now I know I should have cut a sample piece and prewashed it. However, I honestly don't have that kind of patience, so I just dumped the entire five yards in the washer. After the first wash & dry, all of the additives were removed. After the second wash & dry, the fabric had beefed up a little and had a little more body.

I decided to work with it after two wash & dries because I don't believe a third would have made much difference in the fabric's hand or weight. Just one thing to note ~ if you decide to wash and dry this fabric, stitch the ends together to insure that the fabric doesn't twist during the prewashing process.

(Inspiration picture from Lafayette 148 with the fabric beneath it)

I decided to use my TNT pattern - Simplicity 8059 - for the cardigan.

I've made this cardigan five times now and it's become a staple in my fall/winter/early spring wardrobe. It's a great layering piece and works well with my current lifestyle.

The top is a long sleeved tee from the Cashmerette Concord Tee pattern. This is another fave pattern of mine and I'm thrilled to now have made a fall/winter version. I added 2" to the hemline of the Tee. I added the extra length to the tee to complement my cardigan and make it look more like my inspiration garment.

My tie is a little higher than pictured on the pattern and my other versions. I wanted it to hold the cardigan together better under my fall jackets and winter coats.

A few pictures of the completed outfit ~

There is presently only one wool jersey on the site but if more comes in I highly recommend buying some. While wool jersey is a lightweight fabric its very warm to wear. Or for some versions you can manipulate the fabric through washing & drying or by slicing the fabric or adding appliques. It's a great fabric to use creatively.

Thanks Julie and the Fabric Mart Team for allowing me to share another one of my Fabric Mart creations here!

Carolyn

DiaryofaSewingFanatic