Made By A Fabricista: FROM FABRIC TO FASHION: - The Saguaro Set with Fabric Mart Fabric

The weather in Southwest Florida is finally starting to warm up. With the warm air and bright sunshine, I have been thinking about refreshing my “at home” wardrobe with some fun easy pieces this year. I have wanted to make The Saguaro Set for some time now. When I saw the beautiful selection of rayon challis on the Fabric Mart website, I knew now was the perfect time to get it started.

THE FABRIC

I researched a lot to see which fabric would work the best for this pattern. I chose the Deep Amaranth Pink 100% Rayon Twill Challis for my project. It is a beautiful color that to me looks more coral. The fabric is light to medium weight and has beautiful drape. The care instructions said gentle wash or hand wash. I prewashed the fabric in cold water on the delicate cycle. However, after drying it on the delicate cycle, the fabric had an almost vintage distressed look. I was a bit concerned, but as I began to layout the pattern, I liked the overall look. (Whew, so glad that worked out)

I would recommend to anyone interested in getting this fabric to prewash a small piece first to make sure you like the finished look of the fabric.

THE PATTERN

The Saguaro Set is a relaxed easy fit top with elastic. The pants are high waisted with elastic and drawstring. Both pieces are easy to cut and sew. I recommend checking your measurement size with the finished garment measurements located on the pattern. The pattern comes from size XS to size 7X. There are websites and tutorials to help with construction and adjustments. The only adjustment I made was to the length of the pants. Next time I may raise the neckline crossover. The ties do a great job of giving a bit of coverage. I plan to wear this only at home or perhaps over a bathing suit by the pool. I think another Saguaro Set in a tropical print would be beautiful. There are several beautiful tropical prints rayon challis on the Fabric Mart website that I already have placed in the shopping cart.

THE PROCESS

The sewing process was easy. There are no special closures, buttons, or zippers on this one. This pattern and fabric would be great for a confident beginner to sew. Again, I would recommend washing a small piece of fabric to make sure you are happy with the fabric finish. I used a fresh needle for this project. When pressing I used a warm iron and pressing cloth with no steam. The fabric seemed to like that better. Sewing this set was fun. There are two rows of top stitching on the elastic bands of the top and waistband which is a fun detail.

THE FINISHED LOOK

At first I thought I might be too old to wear this. But I love the finished look! I love that it looks great with low heel sandals or sparkly flip flops. The pieces can be worn together or separately. The top can also be worn with the V neckline to the back. Two piece sets are on trend this year. This one is easy to wear. I am pleased with the fit and dare I say….I feel pretty in it.

FINAL THOUGHTS:

This was a fun easy pattern and I will sew it again in a tropical print fabric I have already chosen from Fabric Mart. At the time of this writing, the Amaranth Pink Rayon Twill Challis is still available. I really liked this fabric for this pattern. Check out Fabric Mart Fabrics great fabric selection and prices for your next spring top, dress, or trendy two-piece set.

CARMEN | @carmensalome

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