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
2 Comments
Claire
I have been wanting to make this pattern for a long time! In the queue and hoping to make this season. This looks like perfect office wear. Thanks for the tip about the stay stitching!
Andrea
Hi Claire. I hope you do make it and post so that your “Faster friends” can see it!