SewSophieLynn

Dive into Dolmans- Itch to Stitch Carey

Another Thursday, another dolman. Do you have a favorite yet? You can see my other reviews here, here, and here.

This week I have Itch to Stitch’s Carey Top and a coupon code at the end. Here’s all the details before I tell you what I think:

Sizes	00-20 (waist sizes 25 3/8″- 40 1/2″)
Printable pattern pages/copy shop version	18 pages/yes
Skill Level	Beginner
Measurements for Rectangle Pieces	Yes
Line Drawings	Yes
Size made	4
Options chosen	I made it as is but had to piece my back.
Fabric Requirement for your size	1 5/8 yd
Measurement Chart	waist, hip
Cutting Instructions	Yes
Pattern Printing Layout	Yes
Cutting Layout	Yes
Suggested Fabrics	Knit or Woven with drape at least 54″ wide
Layer Printing Option	Yes
Neck Line Options	Round neckline
Sleeve Options	Drawstring gathered sleeves
Hem Options	High/low shirttail hem
Color Blocking	Contrast panel in sleeve
Seam Allowance	3/8″
Hem Allowance	3/8″ bottom, 3/4″ sleeve
Separate add-on pack	No
Fit	Loose and flowy
Easy to read instructions	Yes
Drawing or photograph instructions	Drawing

I was drawn to the fun drawstring details of this pattern. It truly sets it a part from all the other dolmans out there.

I absolutely love this top. In all honesty I was dreading making yet another dolman but I love that this is so unique and unlike anything I have in my closet already.

I struggled with fabric choice because this pattern is written for woven or knit so the possibilities were endless. I settled on my go-to stripe/floral combo. The stripe is from LA and the floral is from Jo-Ann. I picked up pre-made drawstring at Jo-Ann but the tutorial goes into how to make your own too.

I had to eek out this top in the stripe and have a seam down the back because of it. I’m so happy with my fabric choice though and glad I got creative to make it work. The top goes together fairly quickly and the tutorial is so clear and easy to follow. I did add 1.5″ at the lengthen/shorten line since I am 5’7″ and most of my length is in my torso. I love that it covers my bum now too. I always like the sides of my shirttail hems to hit mid-hip so I know I won’t be tugging at it all day.

I love that it’s a bit dressier than my other tops but still comfy and casual. This will get so much wear and I’m already planning my next version in a lovely rayon challis.

I really love the fit and that it’s loose where I need it to be (it totally hides my ‘I-ate-poutine-for-lunch-belly’ :)). I definitely need a handful of these tops in my wardrobe!

Kennis at Itch to Stitch was so generous and is offering readers a 20% discount on the Carey Top through Sunday, April 24th with the code ‘carey20’. I highly recommend you hoping over and picking up your own copy!

As always, my co-bloggers have some great reviews for you too so make sure you click on through:

Diving Into Dolmans Week 4

Sewing by Ti: Jalie #3352 Dolman

Mahlica Designs: Fancy Tiger One Hour Top

Creative Counselor: Maria Denmark Olivia Oversized Tee

Made by Melli – Shwin Day Tripper

Guest Blogger: Sew Far North – Seamingly Smitten Women’s Dolman Sleeve Sweater

See you next week with one more dolman review!

Hey June Sloan Leggings

I’ve never made my own workout gear and you better believe that if I’m going to do it I’m going to trust my pal Adrianna to give me a great pattern to get started.

The Sloan Leggings fit like a glove and I’m in love with the color blocking option!

I’ve been seriously jealous of my girls Dressage Leggings (here and here) and these are the perfect grown-up version.

Paired with my Aurora top, I’m ready to run.

My favorite feature of this pattern is the pocket in the waistband, perfect for holding my phone, keys, or whatever little essential I need.

All my fabric came from good ol’ Joann’s. I’m really crushing on this paisley print so don’t be surprised if you see a swimsuit out of it too come summer.

Adrianna really is a genius, I tell ya’! The day that I made these I had the chance to meet and hang out with the genius herself. She is as sweet, humble, and genuine as a person can be. I love that her online personality matched her cuteness in real life. She’s a gem!

Now I better get off my bum and put my new outfit to good use!

MBJM Hang Ten Boardies

I’ve said it before but this kid is meant to live on the beach. He would be my little surfer boy in a heartbeat.

Instead we live in a mountain valley and the local sand volleyball court is as close to the beach as we get.

When Sarah at Made By Jack’s Mum asked for testers for her new surf themed line, I was all over that.

The Hang Ten Boardies are the first pattern in the line.

This pattern is chuck full of options and will be perfect in board short fabric come summer. There’s options for color blocking, pockets, piping trim, full elastic or flat front waist, and different length and hem choices.

I did the bias bound curved hem and front tie option with the flat front and elastic back. Classic and cool.

I usually dread taking pictures of this busy guy but he was AWESOME this shoot. I can’t get enough of these pics.

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Use code ‘mbjmteamsurf’ to get 20% off all patterns until Sunday. If you buy the pattern this weekend you get a bonus v-neck t-shirt pattern FREE! What are you waiting for?!!

It’s currently snowing in our neck of the woods, so I’ll leave you with this pic while I dream of summer…

Dive into Dolmans- Hey June Aurora

Hallelujah! It’s Thursday again- that means we’re one day away from the weekend AND I’ve got another dolman for you. Whoop, whoop!

This week I’m sharing a pattern by one of my favorite designers, Adrianna from Hey June Handmade. I had never made her Aurora Top and this was the perfect opportunity. Make sure you read to the end for an awesome coupon code for this pattern too!

Here’s all the nitty gritty-

Sizes	XS-XXL (bust sizes 32″-42″)
Printable pattern pages/copy shop version	15 pages per version/yes
Skill Level	Beginner
Measurements for Rectangle Pieces	No rectangle pieces
Line Drawings	Yes
Size made	Small
Options chosen	View A
Fabric Requirement for your size	2 yards (I used less than 1.5)
Measurement Chart	bust, waist, hip
Cutting Instructions	Yes
Pattern Printing Layout	Yes
Cutting Layout	Yes
Suggested Fabrics	knits with at least 30% stretch
Layer Printing Option	Yes
Neck Line Options	No
Sleeve Options	No
Hem Options	No
Color Blocking	Yes
Seam Allowance	1/4″
Hem Allowance	1/2″
Separate add-on pack	No
Fit	Slouchy with fitted long sleeve
Easy to read instructions	Yes
Drawing or photograph instructions	Drawings

If you’ve never used a Hey June pattern before the tutorials are always so clear and really some of the best I’ve ever used. This pattern was no exception.

The pattern is another basic dolman- long sleeves, curved hem and a facing neckline.

I’m usually not a fan of facings on a tee but this one really works well.

The long sleeve piece hits me 3″ above my elbow.

I also really like the curve of the underarm- not too wide.

I used this rayon spandex knit from Joann’s. Honestly, it’s a little wild for me but when I saw the new tie dye selection I was mesmerized. So cool but a little out there for me.

I’ve got a pair of Sloan Leggings that will go with this that I’ll share with you soon. I feel like I can be a little bit crazier with my workout clothes than I can with my everyday wardrobe so I think this tee will fit in perfectly there.

I’ve left this unhemmed for now. I’m debating adding a band to keep it in place if I’m wearing it primarily to workout in. I think this pattern, while basic, leads itself to easy hacks like bands, short sleeves, adding a neckband instead of facing, etc.

This pattern has a fun side inset option too that I didn’t use. The colorblocking options with that are so cool and flattering.

This pattern can be made up in a variety of knits like my slinky rayon version or a cozy french terry top. Adrianna has done it again- another winning pattern to add to my Hey June wardrobe. She has generously offered 25% the Aurora pattern until April 28th with the code ‘AuroraLove’. Hurry on over and pick up your copy!

Check out the other posts this week too:

Diving Into Dolmans Week 3

Guest Bloggers: Sew Far North

Adventures with Bubba and Bug

A Maxi for Sophie

It’s rare that I get to sew just because but ever since I got this fabric it’s been calling to me.

I knew when I saw it that it would become a maxi skirt for Soph. The colors and print are so bright and totally her.

The top is a Lil Zippy top from See Kate Sew in a mystery rayon blend from Hancock’s. I love the almost neon color of it too!

For the skirt I used Mingo and Grace’s Crop Top Set as my base. I lengthened the skirt and I used the width of fabric instead of the skirt pattern piece. The skirt fabric is also from Hancock’s (man, I’m going to miss their apparel fabric deals!).

I love the drama of this outfit but also that it’s comfy and practical enough for church on Sundays. She wore this to church and didn’t want to take it off the rest of the day. Maxi’s are the best for Sunday lounging!

This is totally another outfit I’m wishing I’d made in my own size. If only I didn’t need twice as much fabric…

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I loved this shoot! We drove past this little water feature a few days ago and she immediately said, “That’s perfect for a photo shoot. I really want to do my skirt pictures there!” Is she a pro or what?!!

And this my friends, is why I sew! She’s thrilled with her new outfit and I couldn’t be happier!

EYMM Capsule Skirt Blog Tour

Are you ready for summer yet?! Better question, is your wardrobe ready?!!!

The EYMM Capsule Skirt is the perfect pattern to get you started. I’ve got a coupon code at the end to help you out!

The Capsule Skirt is an easy to sew, knit skirt with optional pockets and multiple hem cut lines to give you the perfect fit.

I picked the fold over yoga waistband and of course added pockets (I need me some pockets!).

It sewed up so quick and is so, so comfy which makes this pretty much the perfect pattern. I think I’ll need to make a dozen more as I live in skirts during the summer. Countless hours at the soccer field call for something easy and breezy and this skirt will keep me looking cute and feeling great!

I used this cute ikat knit from Raspberry Creek Fabrics and it paired perfectly with my Kymy top.

Haha, I love this pic but I probably should’ve edited out my goosebumps! I’m ready for summer now if Utah would just get the memo!

Make sure to check out all the other stops on the EYMM Capsule Skirt Tour. (Note: The links won’t be live until the day they’re scheduled, but feel free to click through and check out other blog posts any time.)

Wednesday, April 6

Connected by a Thread, Sugarplum Cuties, The Wholesome Mama

Thursday, April 7

Sew Far North, Lulu & Celeste, Pattern Revolution

Friday, April 8

SewSophieLynn, Welcome to our Crazy World, EYMM

Saturday, April 9

handcrafted by RED, Pretty and Precious, Capture, Craft, and Cook

Sunday, April 10

create3.5, Sewing the Seasons, HattieLu Handmade

Monday, April 11

Creative Counselor, Rebel & Malice, Blessed x 5

Don’t forget to pick up your copy of the pattern while it’s on sale! Use coupon code PERFECTSKIRT to save 25% on the Women’s Capsule Skirt, Girl’s Capsule Skirt, or Capsule Skirt Bundle until April 12 at 11:59pm PST.

Dive into Dolmans-EYMM Kymy

It’s Thursday! That means I’ve got another dolman coming your way! Didn’t you love seeing everyone’s last week?!! This week promises to be just as good so make sure you click on over…

Sewing By Ti
Creative Counselor
Made By Melli

Guest bloggers: Rebel and Malice
Adventures with Bubba and Bug

I’m super excited to bring you another new to me pattern- EYMM Kymy’s Dolman Top.

It’s a super basic dolman and I did the most basic version of it. Here’s all the glorious details:

Sizes	XS-5X
Printable pattern pages/copy shop version	a million 😉 actually there are three styles and each style prints between 18-24 pages making 66 pages total- no copy shop version
Skill Level	Beginner
Measurements for Rectangle Pieces	Yes
Line Drawings	Yes
Size made	Small with Medium length
Options chosen	View B
Fabric Requirement for your size	1 yard
Measurement Chart	chest, waist, hip, shoulder to hip
Cutting Instructions	Yes
Pattern Printing Layout	Yes
Cutting Layout	No
Suggested Fabrics	Knits with 25% or more stretch
Layer Printing Option	No
Neck Line Options	No but there are tips to alter it
Sleeve Options	No
Hem Options	Hi-lo, band, tunic, basic
Color Blocking	no
Seam Allowance	3/8″
Hem Allowance	1/2″
Separate add-on pack	no
Fit	Very loose and slightly more fitted at waist
Easy to read instructions	Yes
Drawing or photograph instructions	Photographs

Not mentioned in the table above is the fact that this pattern comes with an option to ruche the side seam- a great maternity option or just to help camouflage a bit of belly. I didn’t pick that option but loved the ones in the listing.

I used this cotton/lycra from Raspberry Creek Fabrics (my go-to for almost all my solid knits). Cotton lycra is recommended in the pattern but I think it would look better in something with a bit more drape.

My biggest issue is with the sleeve in this knit. It’s got a bit too much body, making the sleeve gape. I think I’d need to wear a tank under to feel like I wasn’t flashing the world every time I raised my arms.

The neck is a wide boat neck and she does give directions on how to bring it in a touch. I may have to do that on my next one. Yep, I do think I’d make this again. It’s a fun silhouette and I’d love to try the side ruching on my next one, probably in something a little flowier. It’s such a quick sew and makes a great basic top. The size range of this pattern is pretty incredible too. It’s suggested to go up or down a size depending on the look you want. In different fabrics, sizes, and bottom hem options you could fill your closet with these and no one would know they all came from the same pattern.

I’m really loving the dolman’s ability to add a little volume up top and also help define my waist. Maybe dolman’s are a rectangles best friend 😉

Katie reviewed the Kymy here and I’m loving her version too! It’s great to see the same pattern on different bodies!

And here’s a little sneak peek at tomorrow’s post. I’m happy to be joining in another EYMM blog tour, this time featuring the Capsule Skirt. See you then…

Gracie Dress by Blaverry

I’ve shown you amazing, intermediate projects from Blaverry here and here but today I’m happy to feature an easy, quick sew- the Gracie Dress.

It’s a cute, raglan-sleeve knit dress with a drop waist and fun little skirt hem.

The kangaroo pocket in the front is a darling detail.

For our version I got to play with the brand new Club line from Raspberry Creek Fabrics.

I used the aqua abstract floral for the skirt and it matched so perfect with the berry heathered french terry from the shop too (currently out of stock but will be in soon).

The finishing in the pattern is superb. It has a bound neckline like the Finn but I chose to use the back of my french terry for the neckline and did a simple t-shirt neckband. It did make it wider than the intended finish but I think it’s great for this sporty look.

We are desperately in need of more everyday clothes so this pattern was perfect. It’s a quick sew and will be great for school.

If you’re unfamiliar with Blaverry patterns, I have a few tips. They are concise so the instructions are not overwhelming. This can be hard if you’re new to a technique (google is your friend!) but also keeps the pattern steps clear and easy. I’m also glad I have my models handy because fitting kids can be tricky. This is a straight size 7 on my tall skinny girl and it fits great. I would trim an inch or two from the main dress if I made this for my more standard size younger daughter. I do get the pattern for free but I have been so happy with all of my Blaverry finished projects.

Join the Blaverry Facebook Group to see more fun Gracie dresses this week. Join the Raspberry Creek Facebook Group to see more Club line previews, too!

Tabitha Top by Love Notions

(This post contains affiliate links. I became a Love Notions affiliate AFTER trying her patterns and loving the high quality, amazing results I got from them.)

I’ve been dying over all the ready-to-wear tops with fun shirt-tail, lace, or other trim hems. They seem to be everywhere these days.

I can always count on Tami at Love Notions to fill my closet with the latest trends and classic pieces.

The Tabitha Top is a classic semi-fitted knit top with multiple sleeve and hem options.

My first shirt I made with the cute shirttail hem. It’s such a darling detail and adds so much charm.

My second tee is more casual with a contrast yoke and split hem.

There’s also a fun lace hem option that I can’t wait to make. I want to fill my wardrobe with these tees- they take my mom-i-form up a notch for sure!

Like the Tessa Dress, the Tabitha has multiple sleeve choices (sleeveless, short, elbow, 3/4, and long) and an optional front and back yoke.

I love the turned bias neckline- such a clean finish!

I love being able to use a bright, fun fabric for the yoke. I always fall in love with pretty prints but tend to gravitate towards solids or stripes in my everyday wear. This is the perfect solution! This fun print is part of the next Club Fabrics line from Raspberry Creek Fabrics (join the Facebook group to see more sneak peeks!)

The stripe version is 3/4 sleeves. The stripe fabric came from a Girl Charlee knitfix trade and is the same I used for my little miss here. The floral has been in my stash forever but I think it came from Denver Fabrics– they have a great selection of floral shirtings.

You can pick up the Tabitha Top on sale through Sunday. You can get it bundled with the Tessa dress for a great deal and the perfect jumpstart to your spring wardrobe. You can read my Tessa review here.

Dive into Dolmans Week One-P4P Pumpkin Spice

Dive-Into-Dolmans-3

I’ve got big things coming your way! Today is the first day on our Dive into Dolmans Blog Tour! I’m thrilled to join along with some amazing bloggers to help you sort through the dozens of dolman pdf’s out there.

Each week, the four main bloggers- Sewing By Ti, Made by Melli, Creative Counselor, and myself, will sew up and review one of the many dolman patterns out there on the market. We have some fantastic guest bloggers that will be joining in the fun too. The greatest part is that you will get to see these patterns on real women with all kinds of different body types. Are you an hourglass? Katie from Creative Counselor is your gal. Ti is representing all the inverted triangles out there. All you apples can look to cute Mellisa and I’m here to help out all the rectangles.

PSD5

My first review is of the ever popular Pumpkin Spice Dolman (or PSD for short) from Patterns for Pirates. The PSD is a loose fitting top with fitted sleeves and multiple hem options. The pattern features no trim pages and the layers option that makes assembly a breeze.

Sizes	XXS-3X
Printable pattern pages/copy shop version	19/no
Skill Level	Beginner
Measurements for Rectangle Pieces	Yes
Line Drawings	Yes
Size made	Small
Options chosen	Long Sleeve, banded hem
Fabric Requirement for your size	1 5/8 yards
Measurement Chart	Bust, Waist, Hips
Cutting Instructions	No
Pattern Printing Layout	No
Cutting Layout	No
Suggested Fabrics	knit with at least 20% stretch, drapier knits recommended
Layer Printing Option	Yes
Neck Line Options	No but neckband options
Sleeve Options	Short, 3/4, long
Hem Options	Straight, curved, small banded and tall banded hem
Color Blocking	No
Seam Allowance	1/2″
Hem Allowance	1/2″
Separate add-on pack	No
Fit	Loose
Easy to read instructions	Yes
Drawing or photograph instructions	Photos

PSD2

I’ve made my share of dolmans before but never a pattern with ‘batwings’. I really like the fit of this top. I’m very small up top and the extra fullness there is great. I really like the looseness over my belly area. I like that I can pull the band down to wear with leggings or push it up to add a little fullness there too. There are two bottom band options- a short waistband (7″ tall) and a tall waistband (ranges between 15″-20″ depending on size). My band is 12″ only because I was short on fabric for the tall waistband.

PSD3

The seam where the long sleeve attaches to the body hits just above my elbow. This pattern has optional short sleeves with bands and 3/4 sleeves also. Elbow patches are a fun little pattern detail you can add too.

PSD4

I chose to do the t-shirt neckband option but there is a turned facing choice too.

PSD6

My fabric for this top came from a Girl Charlee knitfix. It’s super drapey and worked perfect for this pattern. I think the more flowy the better when it comes to this tee.

PSD8

It came together so quickly- you know how I love my naptime sews. I think that’s true of most dolmans and why they are such a favorite among sewers- we all love our almost instant gratification.

PSD1

Make sure to check out the other stops on the tour today-

Sewing By Ti is sewing up the Sew Much Ado Seafarer top. This pattern was one of my very first pdf’s and first ever knit sew. It’s perfect for beginners and so cute too!

Creative Counselor whipped up The Tee by Cake Patterns. The best part is it’s FREE!

Made By Melli made the newest dolman by P4P, the Sweet Tee. It’s super popular right now so I need to check it out too!

Guest blogger: Rebel and Malice is joining us to review the Jalie Dolman.

I can’t wait to see what they’ve sewn up too! Stay tuned each Thursday for more dolman love and reviews!

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