Made by a Fabricista: Cotton and Ponte Tops for Spring!

Happy Saturday All,
I just can't believe we are a few days away from Spring! 2019 is going by so fast and I am ready to create pieces that will transition into summer.  South Florida weather temperature is typically in the 70s and 80s but we have had a few cooler days last month.  I should not be complaining as some states are still experiencing cold temperatures during this time of year.  Even though most of the time we have sunshine, I wanted to create two cute tops made with ponte knit and cotton shirting that can be worn on cooler days this Spring.

I am so in love with Fabric Mart ponte knit selection.  This punch pink rayon/lycra blend is no longer available but here is another bright cerise pink rayon/lycra blend.   I have been stalking Julie's Pick and the Fabric Mart site to see if there are other bright ponte knit colors that I haven't grabbed yet.

This Tinley top (Indie Pattern) is oh so perfect for Spring and I am in love.

I have been wanting to recreate a top I purchased a few years ago and came across this pattern when another sewist Keira  shared her make.

I did make quite a few modifications to option 1 as I cut a  size too big (10)  based only on my bust measurement.  This pattern does have a bit of ease and I suggest you go down a size. Next time, I would definitely cut the 6/8 and make a few minor tweaks.

The modifications made are:

• Removed 2 inches off the neckband
• Added 3 inches to the length of the top
• Used my curve ruler to change the shape of the waist area 
• Shortened the length of the sleeves by 3 inches
• Removed 2 inches of the width of the sleeves for a more slender fit

Matching the sleeve and cuff seams when working with knit.
Working with folded cuff can be tricking especially with a thicker knit. I think I have finally mastered how to match the sleeves.  After 3 failed cuffs matching seams attempt, I decided to try something different and it worked.  I currently don't have a walking foot and this method worked.

Step 1: Match the outside visible seam on the right with the outer layer of the cuff.  Remember the cuff is folded so you are only sewing a single layer which is the outer layer.  PIN through both seams ensuring they line up.
Step 2: Baste about 1/2 inch before and after the seam.
Step 3: Check to make sure it did NOT SHIFT and the seams line up.
Step 4: Finish the cuff.

My second TOP was made using Mimi G Pre-Spring Simplicity Pattern S8830.

 I did NOT make any modifications to the fit but removed the front pockets and epaulet as the colors were very vibrant.  I did cut a size smaller (10 instead of 12) but love the fit after it was done. This cotton striped poplin is sold out but Fabric Mart has a wide selection of shirting fabric.

Can you believe this is my first time sewing a buttondown shirt?  I was very nervous to cut into this stripe fabric as the sizes are different.  Placement of each pattern piece is critical when working with bright color stripe fabric especially keeping it balanced.

  I tried to ensure that my focal points both in the front and back are balanced and centered or highlighted the red and white candy stripe on each pattern pieces.

I have been avoiding buttonholes for years and decided to overcome my fear. I  never knew there are differences with the placement of buttonholes for men vs. women and lucked out with this shirt.

I am ready to make more fly front zipper pants and definitely will be creating a muslin first and will share in April. What are your sewing or crafting plans for Spring? Do you plan your makes each year?  This year I am definitely more focus and have vowed to learn a new skill each month.

Thank you so much for reading and don't forget to stop by my Instagram page to see my latest makes.

One Love,
Marica - Overdriveafter30