Always another Mandy
So many Mandy boat tees. At a rough count the number I have sewn is well into double figures. It’s a simple shape that I return to over and over.
I am now using the updated version of this (still free) pattern. When it was originally released it was a ‘one size fits all’ pattern. It now comes in four sizes, ranging from XXS to XXXL, with a three quarter length and a full length sleeve option. I think that the sleeves are now slightly roomier than they were in the first rendition.
I fall between the size 2 and size 3 according to my measurements, but really when you’re choosing a size for this pattern, it’s very much about your style preferences. I really like the wide loose body with fitted sleeves, so overlaid the original pattern on the new one and decided to go with size 3. I’m happy with that choice.
Of course, as with many successful garments, it’s about getting the fabric choice right for the intended silhouette. This knit (I found it at Restash earlier in the year) is perfect. It’s really soft, quite stretchy, and drapes beautifully. I’ve sewn Mandy tees in a few fabrics now and the ones that have been nicest to wear have been those in fabrics that stretch well in both directions (especially for sleeve comfort).
I did what I often do with the leftovers, and sewed them into a tube for a simple scarf/cowl that I can wear with the tee to add a fraction more neck warmth and a change of style when desired.
It’s Easter Monday here – what a different Easter it’s been. The kids had the fun of our usual egg hunt yesterday, which is always entertaining to watch, but otherwise the four days have been so different to usual. Easter has usually been about family for us, mostly in a relaxed country setting. Everything over the last month is full of contradictions – familiar, yet unfamiliar. At the moment we’re focusing more on what we can do and the blessings of our lives than what we currently can’t do and are missing out on. But that focus changes. Anyway, it’s back to work for me tomorrow, and back to school for the kids on Wednesday (edited to add: both work and school are from home for the foreseeable future as per the stay-at-home guidelines in Victoria). I’ve enjoyed getting sewing and craft projects done, and we’ve also managed to complete a few of those household tasks that get put off for ages but don’t end up taking long to do. We’ve watched loads of Netflix and Stan. When you don’t have to go anywhere for anything, there’s much more available time at home for both doing and simply being. The days are going quickly yet the weeks are taking forever. It’s a very strange time.
Spectacular fabric makes this look really high end.
This is a lovely pattern. I have downloaded the pattern but as yet haven’t sewn it up. Beautiful fabric…what/where is Restash?
Restash is an annual fabric swap held here in Melbourne – people bring fabric/patterns/supplies, people take fabric/patterns/supplies, and no money exchanges hands.
Really, really love this outfit colour combo. Time for a new Mandy and I have a yellow slinky knit. Might have to add that to the queue. Certainly this time at home has slowed us done. I have been very slow to get going yet still get a lot done. Two dresses and two skirts over the weekend. And a table runner. And a good vacuum and walk or two. Not a lot of Netflix but a bit. Yes back to work tomorrow (upstairs). Have a good week.
the fabric makes the simple style look so good. love your shoes too! and we are under our 4th week of stay-at-home order and school closures here in N. California with no announcement of an end date – a little envious of you going back to work!
Hi Beth – that back to work and back to school is all from home! We’re also in our 4th week of stay-at-home. School is expected to be from home for the entire 10 week term. Not sure how I’ll be able to keep on top of my work and on top of the girls schooling (luckily at their age I won’t have to teach them but I’ll still need to be across what they’re expected to be doing). No end date here either at this stage.
That really is a great fabric pattern combination!
Homeschool starts for us tomorrow as well. I am not sure how it is going to work or my involvement if any or the duration. I am not sure the school does either. Year 12 is such an important year so I guess we just make the best of a bad situation.
Very glamorous . You look great . Love the pattern fabric combination