Itch to Stitch: Arenal Top

Once more I have been testing for Itch to Stitch – this time the Arenal Top: a simple shirt featuring a V-neckline and a front yoke. As always with Itch to Stitch patterns you have different options: a regular or handkerchief hem and long or 3/4 quarter sleeves. 

The Arenal top is a real wardrobe staple. I love v-necks and with the front yoke you can give the top different looks. I totally copied Kennis’ version with a lace yoke as I liked it so much. the possibilities are endless as you can also see when you look at the other tester’s versions.

Arenal Top

Arenal Top

Fabric:

The main fabric is again a 100% organic cotton from meterwerk. I was so in love with my Burda top that I ordered some more fabric from this shop. And I am in love again. Maybe it is just my iImagination but I have the feeling that organic fabrics have a different, more lively feel to them.

The top is designed for a 100% horizontal and 50% vertical stretch fabric. My fabric had only 50% horizontal stretch so I went one size up. Looking at the pictures I could maybe have cut it two sizes bigger. It is very fitted around the bust area.

I bought the lace some years ago at Karstadt. It is a cotton lace, and I thought this was great so, now I have a big yardage in cream, red and black in my stash.   This is the first time I have used it, though.

Arenal Top

Actually, I wanted to sew the handkerchief hem, but my fabric was too stiff for that. So I changed to the regular hem. For the handkerchief hem you only should use really drapey fabric, else the hem is sticking out. 

Alterations

My usual size with Itch to Stitch patterns is 2. As my fabric was not as stretchy as the pattern calls for I went up a size and cut a size 4. Else I did not any alterations.

Construction:

I made a V-neck already a few times and it was always a matter of luck if it turned out well or not. Kennis’ instruction really is very good and foolproof. I think this is the best “V” that I ever sewed.

The shoulder seams are stabilized with a fusible stay tape. All seams were done on my serger. The hems are turned to the inside and coverstichted.

Conclusion:

A simple top which is very versatile due to the front yoke. I liked the slightly curved V-neck. I am sure that I will sew more versions of this top. By the way, on the pictures I wear my new Ginger Jeans from Closet Case Files that I made recently. I will write all about them soon!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. I got the pattern for free in exchange for testing. All opinions are, however, my own.

One Reply to “Itch to Stitch: Arenal Top”

  1. A great looking t-shirt and the addition of the lace does make it dressier.

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