Friday, June 11, 2021

Baby, You're a Firework

My next Summer Capsule piece is this top from an 80s pattern, McCalls 4591. 

I've had this pattern for a while -- another thrift store find. I also had this lovely lightweight cotton, just enough to fit one view of this top on to. The print reminds me of wildflowers or bursts of fireworks. I wanted to make the blue neck tie view A (with added cap sleeves) but didn't have enough fabric so went with the red centre front bow version, D. 


I don't think it's entirely successful. The fabric is lovely, the overall fit is nice, but the bow just doesn't work for me. It's very heavy, even in this lightweight cotton, and pulls on the front opening (which is also far too low for me). Sewing even a few stitches in centre front to try to raise it makes the front pull even more. I may just cut off the extensions and try to add a little triangle of fabric at centre front to fill in the V, then it may sit a little better. Or not!

For now, I gave it a go as is and trialled it for a bit. The pattern itself isn't bad and is surprisingly quick to stitch up. I may just give my original view choice a try and see if the neckline tie works out more effectively. I hope I can rescue this one, though, as I really do love this pretty fabric!

4 comments:

  1. I think that your idea of cutting of the extensions to the collar, and using some of that fabric for a small "modesty panel" is a good one. I can visualise the collar that way and it seems like a win

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    1. Thanks Alison, I think that's what I'll do.

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  2. Hi Melanie, Sometimes it is good to do something you would not normally do, otherwise we just keep making more of the same. It is an adventurous top, and looks a fabulous fit from behind, and interesting from the front. Maybe the bow is just not proportionate or doesn't drape as you imagined it would. Without the bow you could definitely add a small piece to the V to make it look like you have something underneath (without having too much going on). I remember as a teenager so so many years ago, my mother making me sew a piece of lace across a plunging neckline of a very favorite dress. I wore it for years, wasn't that bothered as I actually liked the lace.

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    1. Yes, I did enjoy trying this but I think you are right that although the fabric is light, it is not at all drapey. That might be the catch! Definitely need a modesty panel for this one, for my tastes anyhow, once that bow is gone ;)

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