This one was to be my final project for the PR Pattern Stash Contest, although I didn't end up entering it. I had it finished in time, but I didn't really like it and I couldn't muster the enthusiasm to photograph and review it. However, I've pushed through the laziness and am reviewing it now.
This is the cardigan from McCalls 5890. I really love the look of the coordinated wardrobe that this pattern offers and have long admired the simple lines of the cardigan. So, I busted out this pattern for the Pattern Stash contest and merrily set off on my cardigan journey.
I soon came to grief, however, when I realised that the wrong side of the fabric was going to show for the shawl collar. That, in itself, wasn't too much of an issue with the fabric I'd chosen, but how on earth was I going to finish the edges on the thing? I'm not much one for the deconstructed look of leaving edges unfinished, but I was leaning towards it for this project. It made me feel quite uncomfortable. It also brought all my sewing to a halt while I came to terms with my discomfort. I procrastinated on this one like crazy! LOL.
In the end, I madly consulted all the previous reviews of this pattern on PR (which I probably should have done BEFORE I started, but, hey, you live and learn, right?). There were a few different methods used by previous reviewers. I chose to cut off the selvedge of my fabric and stitch it to the front edges because it was such an unusually pretty edge. I also trimmed the sleeve hems with the selvedge as well but you can't see it in the photo of me wearing it because I've got the sleeves rolled up. There's still the problem of the wrong side of the hem showing at the bottom of the shawl collar. While it's not that noticeable in this fabric, I just found the whole thing very clumsy.
The fit of the cardigan was fine, if a little big, but the business over the right side/wrong side dilemma has put me off sewing this pattern ever again. I have plenty of other cardigan patterns in my stash that have a far more elegant treatment of that front collar/edge.
What's in the pipeline now?
Currently, I have four garments in active progress: two flowergirl dresses, my brown linen dress (which is a test version of my silk dress) and the green silk dress for my brother's wedding.
 |
| Sneak peek of the brown linen dress. |
Posts
You might not be crazy about the top but it looks lovely on you. Try wearing it with navy instead of black.
ReplyDeleteThe dark colour in the fabric is actually dark brown, but navy is a good suggestion. I'll give that a try. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI like your jacket - it brightens up your outfit. Thanks for dropping by my blog. Now I have found your blog which I am enjoying very much - LOVE the Jalie top. Funny that you found my blog whilst searching for SWAPs as I have just spent a whole lot of time updating my SWAP. Thanks for the lead for the sewing teacher but I am in Sydney - all of the ones I have found so far in my area teach at night or during weekdays - poo!! I look forward to seeing more of your creations.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome! I love following the blogs of my fellow Aussie seamstresses. You learn so much.
DeleteI've been working on my Spring/Summer SWAP, too, but I find I'm having trouble limiting down to a reasonable number of garments. I do love the planning stage, though. :-)
Kelley, when I first saw the photo of your cardigan I thought how lovely it looked, especially the edges. It's a pity it did not match yur expectations, but I do hope it gets plenty of wear, as it's too nice to only see the inside of a wardrobe.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Janine. I guess when the sewing experience wears off, I'll be able to see it in a different light. It will probably get more wear then. :-)
DeleteKelley, I think your cardigan looks very nice. But, I can understand if you aren't happy with it, you'll never enjoy wearing it. I just found your blog & wanted to say I enjoyed reading it, especially your posts regarding pants fitting as I'm constantly working on that for myself :)
ReplyDeleteThank you, Beverly. I have a pretty poor memory, so there's every chance that next year I'll pull out the cardigan and 'rediscover' it. :-)
DeleteI've got a few other projects on the burner at the moment, but as soon as they're done, I'm back to the pants.