Simplicity 1198 is described on the Simplicity website as follows: misses’ v-neck knit top has sleeve variations, optional contrast yoke and panel with asymmetric hemlines. the scoop neck knit top has sleeve options and a beautifully draped hemline.

I bought this pattern for view E, with the side tuck/drape (although I am likely to sew view A/B/C at some stage too, I suspect).  There are a few reviews of it online, many mentioning that it runs large.

Because of the reviews, I decided to delve into scraps and hopefully make a wearable muslin. I sewed size Medium, which is a 14-16, dubious about going down to the Small (size 10 – 12) given my weight gain. As it turns out this is quite a roomy top, but not inappropriately so. Except for the neckline – it is wider and deeper than it needs to be, but not unwearably so.

This is much easier to sew than you would imagine! There are only four pattern pieces – front, back, sleeves, neck band. The drape is created by taking a fold at one side of the pattern – just follow the instructions and you’ll have no issues.

Construction was on the overlocker, with the machine used to twin needle hems and secure the neckband. The next time I make it – there will definitely be a next time – I will make the neckline smaller. It is quite wearable as it is, however. I also like the tunic length and asymmetrical hemline. I’ve also seen this pattern lengthened to a dress, and would like to give that a try as well.

By the way, the fabric is from the Darn Cheap Fabrics $2 table a couple of years ago, the scraps left over from this dress. I didn’t have many options for how to place the print, given I was working with leftovers, but it still worked out okay!