Itch to Stitch Idyllwild Hack and Birthday Party

Hi everybody,

I always wanted to make the Idyllwild Top with a V-neck instead of the scoop neck that comes with the pattern. I just like the look of V-necks better on me. So as Kennis from Itch to Stitch asked me if I would like to hack one of her patterns for her birthday party I joined in happily.

As it turned out there was only a tiny alteration needed. I used the large scoop neck as a basis. I only had to change the last few cm to get a V. In the picture below you see the original pattern peaking out just a little bit in the center front:

I love how it turned out. The V is slightly curved.

A technique I always wanted to try is to sew the neckline band a little differently. I saw this method in the book from Lynda Maynard “Professionell Schneidern” (The Dressmaker’s Handbook of Couture Sewing Techniques), and it looks so pretty. It is easier than the classic V-binding and looks more interesting, so double win here. The only thing I should take more attention to is the turning point of the topstitching. Next time I will mark it instead of eyeballing….

There is not much to say about the construction. All seams are serged. For the hem I used the cover setting of my serger. I added some elastic to the shoulder seam to prevent it from wearing out.

The fabric is a rayon-spandex knit, at least that is what I assume, as there was no content given. I found this piece in the scrap bin of a fabric store. Does it ever happen to you that you do not know why you purchased a certain piece of fabric? Well, I do not like rayon knits. Unfortunately for me this is what you most commonly find in the stores. I do not like pink. And I am unsure about prints. So, I really do not know why I bought this in the first place. Now I like it a lot. It goes well with jeans or a bit more dressed up with black trousers.

As I was short on fabric I had to piece the sleeves. Do you see where I pieced them together? No? Me neither. Actually I already forgot about it until I wore it for the first time and felt the seam on the inside. With this busy print I thought it would not be necessary to make sure that the sleeves are symmetrical. I am not sure if it would have been possible due to my fabric limitations, but shame on me I did not even try….All in all I am happy with this top and I am sure it will get a lot of wear.

Now to the birthday part: Itch to Stitch patterns is becoming 1 year. If you follow my blog you may have noticed that I test a lot for Kennis. I just love her patterns, I love the testing process and Kennis is such a lovely person and I enjoy working with her. Now she is throwing a big birthday party with a blog tour, giveaways and sale. Check it all out below. You have to klick on the rafflecopter link to enter the giveaway (for some reason I do not understand only the link shows on my blog…). Make sure to visit the Itch to Stich blog everyday as there is always a new giveaway. Have fun!