Back in the saddle

Well we're back from Legoland and everyone had a good time (especially a certain 7 year old boy).  I'm glad we didn't pay full price though because I would have been demanding a refund.  And that's all I've got to say about that.

I was very anxious to get back to some projects and had a hard time sleeping last night just thinking about all the things I want to make.  Which makes me grateful for my morning coffee which I love so much.  Anyway...

I finally got around to making something with this pattern I've had for a few weeks and I'm so tickled with the result.  I finally weaned the baby a few weeks ago and I'm getting back to a normal "bosomage" so things are starting to fit better.  I will definitely be making a few more of these tops for summer.  I love the fact that it's sleeveless but still provides good coverage.   It's Simplicity 4176 and it's not out of print (bet you didn't see that coming)!

I made the top in the main picture but added about an inch to the length.  The example looked okay but I hate it when a top looks good and then when you lift your arms it exposes the horrifyingly jiggly results of 5 pregnancies.  Eeeek.

I love this fabric too.  I got it at Bolt in Portland last summer and have been waiting for just the right pattern. 

I really love the fact that it has no zippers or buttons but still doesn't look or feel loose.  It just has a few easy pleats and it went together pretty fast.  I did narrow the bodice at the top so the shoulders didn't tip out so much.  See my sunburn?  I always sunburn in other states but never in Arizona.  Go figure.

I'm very happy with this pattern and Joey liked it right away when he walked in the door tonight so that's a good thing too.  Fun!

Comments

[tammy]

I love this top. When I saw the pattern cover I thought, well, it could work -- then saw your photos of the finished top, and between the fabric (which works SO well) and what looks like excellent craftsmanship, the outcome is just terrific!

[Lynda Campbell]

Love it! And I have that pattern too! I LOVE that fabric! It is perfect!

[mom]

that looks terrific but i sure don't remember that fabric from bolt. it looks like some of the fabulous fabric you carry in fabritopia. love the pleats in the front. perfect summer blouses for you and your girls.

[Bernadette]

The top looks great on you! And what a shape after 5 pregnancies, WOW!
Thank you for the "how to do the wings"- pictures, but can you tell me how much fabric I have to take in centimeters?

[Lauren]

That's so cute! I've been looking for a pattern like this for myself- I'll have to pick it up & try it out.... thanks for sharing :)

[lera]

Very pretty top.

[Linda T]

Great top. I must get that pattern!

[Tonya Richard]

I love that top! And the fabric is great, I would have picked it up too, that is so my taste!

I hear you about the jiggly results of multiple pregnancies, my belly is scary too LOL

I would have never picked up that pattern, but after seeing it on you, I think I will get a copy, the shirt is very flattering : )

[Michelle]

Oh my gosh Jona, your completely adorable!! I mean... I knew that.. but.... yea... your adorable! Love the shirt and the fabric.. I have jiggly arms too though...LOL!!
Michelle

[Nikki]

It looks great! I have this pattern too and have made a couple of the longer version as maternity shirts :) Love the fabric!

[Carrie]

What a great top! I am still nursing (8 mos), but no zippers and no buttons = okay by me.
As others have mentioned you are too cute for words! And I also loved your tutorial on the little angel sleeves.
Carrie (the girl who asked about the dress where the sleeves were part of the bodice.)

[Beth B.]

That is darling, and love the fabric too - nice choice! Thank you for sharing!!

[the vintage pearl]

Really cute!!! Love the fabrics and puh-lease about the arms, you look great!

[Deb]

I bought that pattern too, but I haven't tried it yet.....hope it looks as good on someone a little shorter and rounder, lol.

[Lisa]

Great project and the fabric selection is perfect too.

[Marie]

Jona-
That fabric really made the shirt, and that style top suits you well. You're inspiring me to sew something for myself instead of my kids for once.:)

Hmmm...I'm curious to know what you didn't like about Legoland? Every time I've gone, I loved it!

[JennyT]

Cute top. Once homeschooling is done for the year I will choose a project and let you know how I do.

[Kristen (BlueBottleDesigns)]

Jona...welcome home! We missed ya girl :) You look just fabulous in those photos--and the top is cute too!

(((hugs)))

[nanette]

So darling. I love the fabric you used. Its really cute. And wow girl even without 5 kids - fabulous.

[Michelle]

I meant to ask you what color paint is that on your walls.. fabulous!!!!! :)
Michelle

[Sandra-MyInspiredHeart]

Oh, wow! I really love this top pattern...so, so cute :)

[Brooke]

Love the top. I have been out of garment sewing since college...but you might have inspired my return!! I am with you on the too short tops...hate 'em.

About Legoland. We are planning a trip to San Diego in June. Legoland is on the agenda, our 7 year old is indeed excited. Did notice the CRAZY admission prices. Did you find discount tickets? I take it the park was not all it is cracked up to be, by your comment? Do tell...brookiep@sptc.net

Thanks!!!!!

[nana_of_nc]

After I saw the picture of the pattern and you in the finished product, I had to buy this pattern to make for my daughter who just learned she's expecting. Great top for hot summer months in NC. Thanks for sharing!

[MichelleB]

I actually have that pattern! Woohoo for me! I'm not sure that I have the right size - but I'll make it anyway. If it doesn't fit, it will have been good practice.

You look fabulous in it, btw!