Textile Studio Patterns Basic Top + McCalls 6996 = A Great Twinset

Hello all,

A few days ago, I ventured to my local Fabricland for some buttons to complete my green linen shirt that I wrote about here.  “Buttons only!”, I said to myself as I drove there.  And then, “It’s like two cardigans and a top for $100”, was the justification for the cuts of fabric laying on my back seat as I drove home again.

But can you blame me?  Just look at this lovely knit.

A plummy, rosy, heathered knit that drapes beautifully.  How could I leave that in the store, I ask you?

Earlier this year, I made McCalls 6996 in a bright fuscia and have received compliments with every wear.  I actually bought a cream knit to duplicate the pattern, but have since earmarked it for something different again.

This is the best part of sewing in my opinion; the ability to mix and match fabric and pattern to create a unique wardrobe.

This didn’t start out as a twinset.  After cutting out the cardigan, I had enough left over to make a basic shell for underneath.  For this, I used Textile Studio Patterns Basic Top, which is a pattern I have had for years and is still available for purchase here.

This is a very simple top to make, with the front and back pieces both cut on the fold and a couple of sleeve length options.  I chose to go sleeveless for this version to avoid any bunching under the cardigan.

The fabric wanted to naturally roll inward, despite steaming and pressing.  Rather than fighting, I sewed a narrow hem along the front and neck edges of the cardigan.

After reading a few ideas from others on how to hem knits, I chose a broken zig zag/lingerie stich for the neck, arm and bottom hems.

It looks noticeable in the above picture because I have magnified it so that you can see, but is barely visible when the garment is worn.

The flounce on the back of the cardigan is a cute detail, however…  A note to anyone who might make this – when they tell you to staystitch the edges – DO IT!  Even having done so I had to ease about an inch where I had caused some stretching.

I believe my spontaneous fabric purchase is well justified.  A quiet Sunday and three metres of knit has made for a great addition to my fall and spring wardrobe.  Although, I do believe a grey pencil skirt is now in order.  Pattern ideas anyone?

Bye for now,

Andrea