Lisette 1879

 I have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of Lisette's new patterns in Basingstoke, desperate to support local businesses. Whilst strolling around town on Thursday I visited fabric land and found they had the new spring Simplicity catalogue with 50% off. I yelped with joy when I discovered they had my desired patterns and bought both the Souvenir and Diplomat. Today was my first day off work since then and I knew just what I had to do.

All sewn today and what a pleasure to make. I decided to bias trim the sleeve cuffs to keep a little length. There is no picture of me wearing it yet as I have only attached one sleeve. It was a bit tricky to work out the angle to put the Bias tape in relation to the neck of the garment, but figured it out after several failed attempts at basting it. I adore the design of this pattern and the way the top of the sleeves form part of the neck. Now I have figured the sleeves out it will be no problem to complete the next one in a day.
 

I thought I would never find a pattern I love as much as the portfolio dress but this top is even more cute. I am going to make myself another one in in pink chambray as soon as I finish this one.

Almost simplicity 2147

Having attempted this pattern twice and failing to alter the existing pattern pieces, I decided a complete re-design was the only option. The body part of this pattern ends up being shaped like a barrel once pleated and is horribly unflattering. I love the A line shape of the Lisette Portfolio tunic and used this as a template for the shape of the new body.

I measured the top of the pattern piece with the pleats folded in (24cm Sz10) and made sure I made the top  of the pattern this width. I used the curve of the top of the pattern piece with pleats folded to get the correct shape, I then used one of the portfolio dresses I have made and followed the curve down from under the under arm to the bottom. This made the template for the back.

For the front I decided to gather instead of pleat so made the pattern piece wider at the top but followed the same curve. I used the original front pattern piece for the top of the pattern and left the middle pleat unfolded to get the extra fabric for gather.

Top part of the Tunic made using more fabric from Ikea.

 Left is the body made using the original pattern.         Right is the body using new pieces.

 Practice run to test my new pattern before I cut the nice fabric. I have tried it on and it fits perfectly and more importantly is flattering, not a barrel.

I am going to try and finish my spotty Tunic tomorrow so will update with the results.