A few months ago I had the pleasure of test sewing for Lisa of Crafty Mamas.  Lisa has released a number of patterns, and her Cherish dress and Lovely Layers top/tunic are on frequent rotation in my wardrobe.  It was a no-brainer that I would jump at the chance to test a pattern for my daughters – the May-Belle top.

This is a long-sleeved, knit top that comes in a few variations. I gave them all a go! The striped one has a ruffle at the front and back, and balloon sleeves that are gathered at the wrist with elastic in a casing. I used viscose for Clare’s version, which draped beautifully. I also made one for Stella from a stretch lace.

Another version just has the balloon sleeves but the ruffle only across the lower back. I made this for Stella from a high quality cotton/lycra. She loves it!

Then there is the version with balloon sleeves but a straight front and back. I made one of those for Clare in a fairly stable cotton knit.

Now I have to be honest – I don’t really use instructions much at all when sewing up simple knit tops like these. As far as I am concerned the important thing is the drafting and the way that the pattern pieces fit together and fit in the finished product. Lisa is spot on with this.

These are super fast to run up, and if you wanted a plain straight sleeve instead of the balloon sleeve that would be very easy to do. I used my twin needle to secure the hems and to secure the neckbands.  Otherwise most assembly was done on the overlocker.  Both my daughters have worn these a lot since I made them back in late September, and I know that I’ll use this pattern again in the future.