adult's clothing, sewing

Style Arc Abigail knit top

This version of the Style Arc Abigail knit top was the second one that I’d made (I’ve sewn a third one since).  And like the first, I sewed it from a couple of fabrics.

Style Arc Abigail knit top

The body is sewn from a striped lightweight ponte. I only had enough of it for the body, so sewed the sleeves from a crinkled wool knit that originally came from the Darn Cheap Fabrics $2 table. I’m not sure if you can tell in these photos, but I matched those stripes along both side seams and the centre front seam. I reckon that I did a pretty good job of it! I do remember that I used an extraordinary number of pins.

Style Arc Abigail knit top

I really like the way that this top fits on me. It’s perfect for those days when I’m feel pretty senstive about my rounded mid-section. Fitted through the bust, then flowy, without being too voluminous.

Style Arc Abigail knit top

It really is so easy to sew a V-neckline when theres a centre front seam – the neckline is finished before the front seam is sewn. The pattern also has an attached choker style collar – I have never sewn it that way and wouldn’t feel comfortable with it around my neck, but I’m sure that there would be other people who would like that style.

Style Arc Abigail knit top

From the pattern website: This fashionable top can be made with or without the choker neck band. The swing silhouette makes this top stylish but easy to wear. The neck band is a current fashion trend but if you prefer a “V” neck top just leave out the neck band. Long or short sleeves? It’s your choice on this style. FABRIC SUGGESTION: Knit jersey or baby wool.

abigail-top

Oh, writing this review and reading the pattern description reminds me that I’d like a short-sleeved version for summer!  I’ll put that on my to-sew list!  Now, there is unfortunately a sad tale to tell involving this top.  Every time I have washed it, that body fabric has shrunk a little.  Clearly the softness of the lightweight striped ponte was due to a high viscose content, and it has got shorter and shorter.  Too short for me to feel good in it, sadly.  I have passed it on to someone else who is quite happy with the length.  The moral of the story?  Pre-wash those fabrics!  I generally put everything through the wash as soon as I get it home, but this one must have missed out.  Dammit.

Style Arc Abigail knit top