Team raglan
Regular readers know that I love Japanese patterns, I’m fond of sewing the same pattern multiple times and raglan sleeves have a special place in my heart. It’s therefore not surprising that I’m sharing another version of the Basic Pattern from Lesson Two from Aoi Koda’s Pattern Lessons for Autumn and Winter Wear with you today.
Part of my love of using the same pattern multiple times is using different fabrics. My first version was sewn in some dreamy Merchant & Mills linen, this time a crispy cotton shirting was my fabric of choice.
It’s lucky that I really like this fabric as I have lots of it. Do you want to hear the story?
Cottage Industry Store had a rare studio sale in Fitzroy last month and I popped along to rummage through the box of vintage silk scarves and to check out the fabric on offer. There were rolls of fabric, but I focused my attention on the large table piled with neatly folded pieces tied up with string. Gosh… ‘tied up with string’ take me straight to Maria singing ‘These are my favourite things’ in the Sound of Music!
I digress… I was immediately drawn to the grey/green base and the bright colours in the floral pattern. It’s an unusual mix, but it works for me. I quickly decided this fabric was coming home with me. The bundle was a little heavier than I expected for cotton shirting, but I didn’t give it a lot of thought and purchased it for next to nothing. When I got home, I discovered why the bundle was so heavy… the fabric was 150cm wide and around 15m long! Yes, that’s a lot of fabric.
I’m still enjoying all the little details that this pattern offers. In particular, the darted raglan sleeves, the elasticised front hem, and the button detail on the back neck opening.
I’m sure your not surprised to hear that I’m not done with this pattern yet. I see a Liberty version in my near future!
I’m also keen to hear your thoughts on what I can make with all my left over fabric. Should I make matching outfits for the whole family in true von Trapp style? Yes, another Sound of Music reference! On that note…
Pattern: The Basic Pattern from Lesson Two from Aoi Koda’s Pattern Lessons for Autumn and Winter Wear
Size: 9
Fabric: Cotton Shirting purchased at Cottage Industry Store’s studio sale
Alterations: Added 2″ (5cm) the length. Lowered the neckline by 3/8″ (1 cm). Removed 2″ from the length of the sleeves.
Accessories: Antique green beads & shoes from Habbot
Those shoes are perfection! Love this floral shirting–perfect match of fabric and pattern. Can’t believe your bundle yielded so much fabric! Skirts (or shorts) for your girls would be fun, if they’d allow it. 🙂
The key is, as you suggested Sarah, if they’ll allow it. Maybe something for my younger and much less fussier nieces is in order.
This is such a fabulous top! I love the raglan sleeves and all the little details. It’s so satisfying getting multiple makes out of one pattern!
Thanks Kate. I’m very fond of a pattern repeat. The ‘no need for re-fitting’ is a stronger drive than owning multiples of the same thing.
I love a raglan and I love that pattern. I like the elastic detail at the front, will give this pattern a go x
A well drafted raglan can highlight the shoulders and reduce the bust. For me, there is a lot of like about a style that does that! It’s a great pattern Kate. I look forward to seeing your take on it.
It’s lovely Anna. The fabric is gorgeous- I really love the pink in it.
Thanks Rachel. Just say the word and some of this fabric can be yours!
Oh wow! Thanks, I’d love a bit. You’re very generous x
Done! I’ll bring it to Sewjourn… not long now!
Oh yes! Von Trapp away!! Love that you get fixed on a pattern and go for it! Wardrobe coherency cannot be underestimated xxx
Wardrobe coherency… I like that a lot. I’ll be borrowing that phrase from you lovely lady. I’m not sure my two will agree to this fabric. I may need to turn my mind to three younger and far less fussier nieces.
This post matches your new logo beautifully! Another killer neckline. How did you do the loop over the button? I’m about to do one on a Japanese pattern and I’m puzzling over which way to go? I’m sure there are wise words in the Japanese instructions but I’ll never know what they say. Sadly.
Ah yes, my Japanese is non-existent too Klarissa. I used the Oliver + S ‘Making a thread chain’ tutorial to learn this technique (http://oliverands.com/community/blog/2010/09/thread-chain-tutorial.html). I like to use a double thread for a slightly thicker, and hopefully sturdier, thread chain. I really like making these… another sewing nerd moment!
This top fits you so perfectly and that fabric is gorgeous!
Thanks Jean Margaret. I can see it will get lots of wear with our changeable spring weather.
What a great find! I would make summer pyjamas and a long bathrobe from all that yummy fabric. It would be lovely to sleep in.
I hadn’t thought of pjs Elle. Great idea!
Raglanny goodness! Still love the sulfur version the best I think! Love your red backdrop!
I’m trying not to play favourites Sarah, but I have to agree!
It is a lovely top. Simple, but very effective! I am glad to hear we will see a lot more of this fabric transformed into something beautiful 🙂
Ohhh, I like this pattern! The raglan is ace (of course) but that elasticised waist is so cool!
And I vote matching capes for everyone von Trapp style! 😉
Von Trapp capes… of course, why didn’t I think of that!