Alexa in green
I was wearing this top yesterday and it reminded me that although it had been photographed, it hadn’t been blogged yet. Time to remedy that…
When I blogged my Sunny Knit Top last month I mentioned that my wardrobe is in need of some basic long sleeve tees to wear with RTW jackets. This Alexa T-Top is one of those gap fillers.
It’s not the first time I’ve sewn this pattern, and it won’t be the last… I actually cut another out last night!
My weight and shape have changed since I last used this pattern over two years ago, so it was back to the drawing board with regards to size. This is a small with the body and arm length of the petite and I’m happy with the fit.
The fabric is a lovely Italian cotton knit from The Cloth Shop. Even though this top has an overall green look about it, it’s actually a fine green and grey chevron print with orange, red, blue and white flecks thrown in. When you describe it like that it sounds like there is a lot going on, but it’s actually very subtle.
Construction and hemming were shared between the overlocker and a twin needle. I used fusible stay tape on the neckline and back shoulder seams to avoid them stretching out. This is my go to way for constructing tees.
Pattern: Tessuti’s Alexa T-Top Pattern
Size: S
Fabric: Italian cotton knit from The Cloth Shop
Alterations: The front, back and sleeve length were shortened to the petite size
A great basic is better than money in the bank!
Sewing basics has me in a surprising smug frame of mind Sarah Jo… so I couldn’t agree more.
Basics! Love them and need to make more myself. I love the chevron print, it elevates it and creates some interest. Sometime I feel such a dope, but do you think you can send me a photo of the fusible stay tape. I really have no idea as I never sew with knits (well not generally). Even the brand name would be good. xxx
Filling wardrobe gaps with basics is surprisingly satisfying and it’s helping me wear me-made most days. I’ve come a long way in five years!
That fabric is to die for! I adore it.
Perfect long sleeved T, and I hope it gets worn all the time as it looks fabulous.
With very few long sleeve tees in the wardrobe, this new one will be getting lots of outings… maybe even tomorrow!
Looks lovely! Don’t you just love having a pattern that you keep going back to?
I’m a big fan of the repeat sew Linda. I’ve just started sewing my second Nell Shirt today.
Very lovely! I love the simple lines and the cute fabric. I’m definitely trying to work on basics too. It feels so satisfying to get a lot of wear out of me-mades. I haven’t used fusible stay tape before but I’m curious about it because I know you’ve mentioned it before. I must check it out!
Fusible Stay Tape is the bomb Kate (was that a little to dramatic?). I like the Emma Seabrooke brand and I buy it from Stitch 56. It comes in three colours… white, ivory and black. Here is a link to the black colourway… http://www.stitch56.com/products/knit-stay-tape-black-emma-seabrooke
Lovely top, I have to say that that green is so your colour and the scarf goes really well with it.
Thanks Annie. I have green eyes and find it an easy colour to wear. Green is actually my favourite colour!
Another beautiful make! You always look so well put-together. Where do you get your stay tape? I used to make my own from fusible knit interfacing but Spotlight has stopped stocking it, much to my disappointment.
Very kind words Siobhan. With regards to stay tape, I like the Emma Seabrooke brand and I buy it from Stitch 56. It comes in three colours… white, ivory and black. Here is a link to the black colourway… http://www.stitch56.com/products/knit-stay-tape-black-emma-seabrooke
That description sounds so crazy but the fabric is gorgeous! Love a smashing basic 😀
It did sound super crazy but it just works. I’ve always been partial to a fleck. I forgot how satisfying sewing basic are… mind you I have two shirts ready to sew before I return to sewing basics. Sometimes I just need to stretch my skills and get out of my comfort zone!
What a fantastic fabric, I need to make some basic long sleeve tees too, but am starting to think that will be a next year job…love your scarf too.
Surely it must warm up soon Emma… I have two more long sleeve tees in the cut out pile but I must admit I’ll be moving onto spring sewing soon!
Such a stylish basic shirt! That fabric looks amazing, I’d love to have a pile of them.
Thanks Jen. Interesting fabric really can lift a garment. I think I need a pile of these tees too!
That shade of green on you is beautiful!!
Thank-you. Green is my favourite colour and I expect it has something to do with how it suits my complexion.
Love the subtle pattern to your fabric and this is a great basic top to have in the wardrobe.
It turned out perfect. I love fabrics like that that have a lot of subtle things going on.