An experimental Hemlock
After making Figgy’s Stellar Dress in April (my version here) it got me thinking about mixing jersey and woven fabrics. Look what sewing does… it makes me consider breaking the rules and/or stretching the concept of normal!
With Grainline Studio’s Hemlock Tee in mind, I began experimenting. Yes, I sewed up some samples!
A quick Instagram poll (follow me here) confirmed my gut feeling… the bottom sample was the one to explore further.
In short, I ….
- Joined one shoulder seam
- Cut a scrap of Liberty on the bias and ironed it in half
- Overlocked the raw edge of the binding to the neckline stretching it as I went
- Joined the remaining shoulder seam
- Ironed, ironed and ironed it some more!
- Used my twin needles (one side on the liberty, the other on the jersey) to secure the overlocked edge to the jersey on the wrong side
The result… a nearly flat neckline. It’s not perfect (did I mention I’m a perfectionist?) but considering the use of different types of fabrics, I’m calling it a good win.
Do you break the rules when sewing?
Pattern: Grainline Studio’s Hemlock Tee (free pattern & online instructions)
Size: One size
Fabric: 100% merino jersey (body of tee) from The Fabric Store (probably two seasons ago) and Liberty Tana Lawn for the neckline
Alterations: Shortened the sleeves by 3 1/4 inches. Shortened the hem by 3 1/4 inches.
Accessories: Shoes purchased at Peter Sheppard. Bangle by Sonia Rykel (brought here).
That’s a very successful experiment resulting a pretty tee.
Thanks 🙂
Ooh pretty! I like it very much!
It’s already had quite a bit of wear!
Looks just as nice in person! A question though – do you mean you stretched the liberty binding while sewing it on? Xx
That’s exactly what I did. Just like knit binding, I stretched it a little as it was sewn on.
A new technique invented by Blogless Anna – congratulations!
Gonna try this…it looks so pretty.
Does that mean I get naming rights? I hope not, I’m terrible at naming things! Let me know how your version goes.
My excuse is I never learnt the rules in the first place! The T-shirt looks fantastic. I love the colours. And oh, those shoes, they’re brilliant!
Well done, it looks smashing really lifting that T-shirt to something special.
Thanks Louise. It’s always great when an experiment works out.
Breaking the rules turns a craft into an art. Great job!
I love that saying… breaking the rules turns craft into an art… as it’s so true. Thanks for sharing.
It’s always tricky combining knits and wovens, but you’ve nailed it here 🙂 I love your twin needle idea, I’ll be tucking that one away in the ideas bank…..I just hope I remember it’s there!
Remembering is the hard bit isn’t it Kathy. My recall isn’t what it used to be… I blame it on having a mummy brain (trying to do too many things at once), but I thihnk it might just be age!
In my past experience, I’ve always failed when attempting to mix woven and stretch. Apparently the sheer force of my will just isn’t enough. Considering that… I think you’ve got an outstanding result here! Looks lovely 🙂