Even here in Florida, we get the occasional cold weather surprise, and when temperatures dipped recently, I was very glad to have the perfect handmade outfit ready to go. For this month’s Fabricista make, I sewed up New Look pattern 6771, using two beautiful fabrics sent to me by Fabric Mart Fabrics.
The Fabric & Pattern Choice
New Look 6771 is a cozy two-piece set featuring a relaxed-fit top and pull-on pants—exactly the kind of pattern that works well for transitional weather. I chose to start with the top, using a brown animal print French terry from Fabric Mart, and it turned out to be an absolute dream to work with.
The French terry was soft, substantial without being heavy, and handled beautifully at the machine. It had just the right amount of structure to highlight the pattern’s design details while still feeling comfortable and wearable. From cutting to pressing, this fabric behaved perfectly and elevated the final garment.
The Top: A Total Win
The top from New Look 6771 was a complete success. It’s comfortable, flattering, and easy to style—everything I want in a handmade piece. The design details really shine in this French terry, and the animal print adds visual interest without overwhelming the silhouette.
I’ve styled the finished top with both black pants and brown pants, showing just how versatile it is. It works just as well dressed up slightly as it does for casual, everyday wear. I’ll also be including a short video clip so you can see a close-up of the fabric and construction details.
The Pants: An Honest Sewing Moment
Using the same pattern, I set out to make the coordinating pants in a gorgeous ponte knit also sent to me by Fabric Mart. The fabric itself is lovely—smooth, stable, and exactly what you’d want for a knit pant.
Unfortunately, the pants did not work out as planned. After construction, the fit was extremely baggy, far more than expected. I double-checked my sizing and construction, and after looking through other sewists’ reviews, I found that several others experienced the same issue with the pants being overly roomy.
At this point, I’ll need to take the pants apart and redraft the pattern in order to do justice to this beautiful ponte knit. While it’s disappointing when a project doesn’t turn out as hoped, it’s all part of the sewing process—and sometimes saving the fabric for a future iteration is the smartest choice.
Final Thoughts
Even with the pants setback, this project is a reminder of why quality fabric matters. The French terry top is one I’ll be wearing often, and both fabrics from Fabric Mart were a pleasure to sew with. Sometimes patterns need tweaking, but great fabric is always worth the effort.
I’m so happy to have this cozy top in my wardrobe just in time for our unexpected Florida cold snap, and I’m already planning how to rework the ponte knit pants so they get the wear they deserve.
Thank you, Fabric Mart Fabrics, for providing such beautiful textiles to work with—and for always inspiring my next make.
CARMEN | @carmensalome
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