The more I look at my wardrobe, the more that I realise I gravitate towards relatively simple shapes.  Ones that are fairly loose, without structure.  Fortunately these garments are very straightforward to sew – and they are fast.  Last night I gave the Grainline Linden pattern a try.

This really was a muslin. It’s made from scraps of a jacquard knit bought last year from Darn Cheap Fabrics and used to make a jacket. I even had to piece my scraps to get large enough pieces for the sweater – there is a seam down the centre of one sleeve. Grainline describe this pattern as follows:

The Linden Sweatshirt gives a modern update to the classic sweatshirt. Featuring a relaxed fit, raglan sleeves, and a graceful slightly scooped neckline, this sweatshirt is perfect for fall layering. View A features long sleeves with cuffs and falls to the mid hip with a lower ribbing band while View B hits at the high hip and has short sleeves. You can also mix and match sleeve and body lengths to create multiple versions of this sweatshirt.

Techniques involved include sewing with knits, straight seams, and attaching ribbing.

SUGGESTED FABRICS

Medium weight knits with a minimum of 20% stretch such as French terry, sweatshirt fleece, sweater knits, and jersey.

I made the long sleeve version, but kept the shorter length with the curved front rather than adding a bottom band. This was entirely due to fabric shortage, but in wearing it today I have discovered that I actually rather like the style. The sleeves were ridiculously long. They were meant to have cuffs, but even without the cuffs I turned under a 6cm hem before topstitching (and trimming). I don’t have especially short arms, so beware the arm length if you are making this! And the long-armed of you can rejoice, as for once you won’t have to add length.

I found you a different background for these photos, but it looks as though the hand on the wall is about to push me away! I actually wore this today with a crocheted wrap over it as well.  Super comfortable and cosy.

This is an incredibly fast garment to sew. I’ll use the pattern again. Although I have old Knit Wit raglan patterns in stash I prefer the higher armhole and more modern cut. I chose to sew size 10 (even though my measurements were larger) because it had the amount of ease around the bust that I prefer. I suggest that you choose size according to the finished garment measurements – they are included in the instructions – based on the amount of ease that you like. And remember to watch that sleeve length!