Saturday, July 02, 2011

Sorbetto Tank Top - Colette Patterns

Pattern: Colette Patterns Sorbetto Top (free!)

Pattern Description:
Tank top with center box pleat detail

Pattern Sizing: Sizes 2 -20, I made a size 4 tapering out to an 8 at the hips

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, it did.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes, very much.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? Well, first of all I liked that the pattern was a free download! I also liked the simple shape and the fact that it could be used to draft different variations. It was quick to make, only used 1 1/2 yards of fabric, and needed no fastenings. What I disliked was the alterations I had to make for it to fit me without gaping.

Fabric Used: A 100% cotton Fruit Spots print by Jo-Ann Fabrics and Wrights 1/2" wide single fold bias tape in Stone Blue (an almost perfect match).



Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I originally made a size 6 at the shoulders and armholes and tapered the pattern to a 10 at the hem but after wearing it once realized it was way too big at the neckline and gaping at the underarms.

I took it apart and recut the pieces in a size 4 at top tapering out to an 8 at the hips. It seems my shoulders and upper chest area were too narrow for the pattern as is so I took in the top of the pleat a bit more to eliminate the gaping there.The length of the upper chest was too long so I cut the shoulder seams to the size 2 on the pattern. Then because the shorter straps caused the underarm seams to rise I scooped out the underarm 1/4" and tapered up. I made the changes to the pattern by tracing each fabric piece with every change I made.

After wearing it again, I think I will scoop out the underarm another 1/4".



Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, I actually have a beautiful Swiss dot print chosen for another one. Now that I have a custom pattern prepared it should be lovely, I might even add wavy cap sleeves as the new fabric calls out for feminine details. I highly recommend preparing a muslin.



Conclusion: A very comfortable top that could possibly be made in an hour (if you're not me!).

11 comments:

the fabled needle (jen) said...

It's so cute and summery! It looks great. I have the same problem as you with the gaping armholes; sometimes I address it and sometimes I think, meh I'll just start working out my shoulders. ;)

This top in Swiss dot would be really sweet. :)

lsaspacey said...

Oh you should see the fabric! I'll try to take a picture of it tomorrow. I'd seen it for months but by the time I decided to finally buy it this 1 yard was the only bit left. I went to both of our Jo-Ann stores too.

Shelly said...

Looks great! I love this top. I have the pattern but am yet to make it as it's winter here. I think it will be the first thing I make next summer.

Kyle said...

Perfect for summer!!

Thanks for your kind words recently (and over the years) on my blog! It is appreciated!

Mariela Alethia said...

Great summer top.

SEWN said...

super cute!

Kerry said...

Looks great!

Claire (aka Seemane) said...

Great top! The colours are fab on you :)

How do you find the length now you've worn it a bit? I'm ready to make my muslin (I've done an FBA on my pattern pieces 1st), but I'm worried it's a bit short if I decide I want to tuck it into a skirt or trousers.

lsaspacey said...

Since I read that others found it too short, I used the size 10 length for the hem line. I think it's about right now.

Audrey said...

Super cute top. I love the fabric and trim combination you used. I have seen this top all over blog land. It seems like a great pattern. Simple styling, easy to make and takes just a little fabric. Joanne's did have some pretty swiss dot fabrics. I remember seeing them, but the sold out fast. I am looking forward to seeing this top in that fabric. Just perfect for the hot humid weather we are having. The weather is on my mind because I sat outside for three hours yesterday evening, down near the Tredegar Iron works, waiting for the fireworks to start. It was uncomfortable.

The Slapdash Sewist said...

Love it! That print is so fun for a floaty top and the bias tape is a perfect match. I keep being tempted by Colette patterns, but you are reinforcing my impression that they will not work for my scrawny chest/narrow shoulders. Must...stay...away.