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In Search of the Perfect T-shirt Pattern

I love the feel of drapey rayon knits, but they don't love me back.  Every time I've ever made a shirt pattern with them, they show lumps and bumps that no one wants to see.  But, I keep trying, hoping that someone somehow will draft the perfect easy to sew t-shirt pattern that will show off this beautiful fabric, without showing my love handles.

That's why, when I saw that Vogue had a new t-shirt pattern out, 8879, I had to give it a try.  Not expecting too much, I cut out the pattern without doing any alterations, except for a little lengthening.  Too my surprise, I actually love it!  The cut is just perfect to hang loose, but fit just right at the shoulders.

There are a few things that are different about this particular pattern from your typical t-shirt.

1.  There are no set in sleeves.  The sleeve is cut-on the front and back pieces, so the shoulder seam just extends all of the way down.
2.  The bottom and sleeves are finished with bands, not hemmed.  The sleeve band has a some mitering at the top to give it that slightly angular look.
3.  The v-neck is very narrow and deep, which I really like.  I made the Large size, which would normally be too wide at the neckline for me, but this one was just perfect.
4.  The sleeves are 3/4 length and very close fitting.  This is a good all-season sleeve- you can easily fit a cardigan over it if you are too chilly, but you're not going to get overheated on a warm day either. 

I made another out of a beefier cotton/lycra knit, and it is a little too stiff for the pattern.   I think this pattern really is best for thin drapey rayon knits.

There are two other views in this pattern as well, but both are short sleeved, so they will be on the short list when the weather warms up.  So, bravo, Vogue!  You have a winner in my book!

Comments

  1. Linda LFebruary 19, 2013 at 6:50 PM

    Nice t-shirt! Glad you like the fit. I had not paid any attention to this pattern before.

    ReplyDelete
  2. LoriFebruary 20, 2013 at 6:17 AM

    I like this top on you, thanks for pointing out the pattern. Also, my feelings exactly on the rayon knits!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Carmi QuilltsFebruary 20, 2013 at 8:43 AM

    I hope it a good fit on me. I just ordered it.

    ReplyDelete
  4. UnknownFebruary 20, 2013 at 3:34 PM

    I agree with the other commenters---this is a pattern that I wouldn't have looked twice at, but your version looks so effortlessly cool. It makes me want a top like that!

    ReplyDelete
  5. PriscillaFebruary 21, 2013 at 1:34 PM

    Another Vogue pattern I must get! Let me know when they are on sale again. ;)

    ReplyDelete
  6. Lisette MApril 24, 2013 at 12:34 PM

    What a great easy to wear t-shirt, perfect for those tissue thin and clingy knits. A winner!

    ReplyDelete
  7. UnknownMay 26, 2013 at 9:07 AM

    I have been on the hunt for basic and fabulous t-shirt pattern too! I walk into Nordstroms and I love the cut and fabrics--but I don't want to spend $60 on one t-shirt! I just discovered your blog and shop, searching for ribbing. What a great resource and boy, I LOVE the fabrics you select for your patterns. Great stuff!

    ReplyDelete

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