Although I was fairly happy with my first try at Jalie’s Criss-cross Top pattern, I could tell that some alterations would really improve the fit.  Last time I just removed a couple of inches from the hem.  This time I folded out two inches throughout the body length of the front and back pieces, one inch from just above waist level and the other inch from just below.

I think that it’s now a much better fit through the body. I’m pleased with it from the front, although the back still has a few wrinkles at waist level.

I suspect the back wrinkles may be partially due to the wraps on the front pulling against the side seam – there are three layers of fabric at the front side seam in some places, and only one layer of back fabric. I don’t think I’ll alter this pattern too much more.  The fit through the chest and shoulders is great.

This is really a muslin – when Mr Thornberry saw it he hesitantly asked if I was intending to wear swimsuit lycra in public . . . I reckon that it could make a good rashie for the pool!   I’m not so sure about the flutter sleeve style. I’ve got some other fabric upstairs (are you surprised?) to make a proper wear in public version of this top, but may swap the sleeve for a more traditional short sleeve shape.

Thanks everyone for the lovely birthday wishes for Clare – she did have a wonderful day – and for the compliments on the new look blog! I thought that it was about time for a change. It’s almost three years since I started blogging and my blog has looked the same ever since the first post. I’m finally getting a little more technologically savvy.