Bows and Butterflies

 Sorry it has been so quiet around here lately.  Like I mentioned last month I am super busy with work sewing and prepping for my first craft fair.  This past week I found time to whip up two very quick and easy projects.

Pattern Description:
New Look 6875:There is not one on the envelope but the pattern includes a knit top, two pants and two skirts specifically for knits.
Pattern Sizing:
Envelope includes 5 sizes, XS (6-8), S (10-12), M ( 14-16), L (18-20) and XL (22-24). I made a large.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
I made only the top and yes it did, other than my embellishment.
Were the instructions easy to follow?
I did a quick skim through of the instructions and did not find anything confusing at all for the top.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I love love love everything about this pattern. The only dislike would be the amount of ease in the top. I did end up taking out about 1/2″ on each seam.
Fabric Used:
I used 1 yard of a creamy off white cotton/spandex jersey that I purchased from Jo-Ann’s in 2008 for $5.62. All in all I would say I made out pretty well on the cost!
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
Other than taking out a total of 1.5″ of ease I did add a small embellishment. I added a bow to the right side. Next time I may eliminate the center back seam to give it a cleaner look.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Absolutely! This is a great basic top that goes together pretty quickly. The embellishment possibilities are virtually endless! I have quite a few ideas for my next one.
Conclusion:
I love this top and am very pleased with the simplicity of the pattern. I cannot wait to make another.

Pattern Description:
Butterick B5330: Misses skirt and pants: Pull-on A-line skirts A, B,C have elastic waistline casing and length variations. A: gathered lower section with front slit and bow from purchased cord. B: gathered skirt and ruffle. A,B: length is lover calf. C: gathered ruffle. length 2″ below ankle. Pull-on pants D, E in two lengths have elastic waistline casing and straight legs, length is lower calf.
Pattern Sizing:
8-24
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Other than my changes, yes, it did.
Were the instructions easy to follow?
I didn’t even bother looking at them. But I would hope that you wouldn’t need them based on the pattern pieces.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
Let me start by saying I love the finished skirt, however, purchasing this pattern was pointless! The chances of me making the pants are pretty slim and I did not realize before purchasing it that every single pattern piece is a simple rectangle! I could have made this skirt without the pattern. But since I purchased it I figured I better use it and review it so hopefully someone else can learn from my mistake. The only redeeming thing about this pattern is that if you don’t want to take the few minutes time to measure yourself and do the math to create your own version you don’t have too.
Fabric Used:
I used 2 yards of a gorgeous butterfly print polyester knit from Jo-Ann’s that I paid about $17.00 for. I also used 2 yards of a nude spandex swimsuit lining from Jo-Ann’s that I paid $10.00 for.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I made view C and eliminated the the bottom ruffle and opted just to lengthen the skirt to floor length. I also added a lining since the fabric is pretty thin. To add the lining I serged both the outer shell and lining, with seam allowances facing each other, together at the top before creating my elastic casing.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
I will sew this skirt again, but I will not be using this pattern. I will not recommend it to others, instead I will instruct them on how to create their own so that they can save their money for the fabric.
Conclusion:
The overall finished skirt is great, just don’t waste your money on the pattern. Even if it is on sale for $.99, do not buy it! Measure yourself and make your own!

On a sidenote,  I am 1 single little post away from the 200 post mark.  I think I may have to do something special to celebrate!  Stay tuned for that next week!!!