V-Neck Tunics from BurdaStyle 10/2017/127

In BurdaStyle's October issue, there was a loose-fitting tunic in the plus section that caught my eye.  It looked super simple, and stylish, and I had a couple of short cuts of wools that I could envision it made out of- it just takes 1-3/4 yards.

The first was a remnant of a nubby wool sweater knit. It started out white, but to make it work with my First Frost capsule wardrobe plan, I dyed it this very pale blue.  I just used the regular RIT dye from the store, and it worked great.  One thing that helps with dying a wool fabric is adding white vinegar to the dye bath to help with the dye uptake.

One the sewing side, there is really hardly anything to making these- as all of the edges are just turned under and stitched down.  The original design has zippers at the side, which would make it more challenging to sew. I had ordered some cool zippers to use for these, but alas, when they got here, the colors weren't anywhere near what I was expecting, so I left them off.  Nikisha from Dressmaking Debacles also made this pattern into a great version from a sweatshirt knit with the side zippers here.

The second tunic was made from a much heavier boiled wool.  This was my first time making something with boiled wool, and I loved it!  It's really soft and spongy, and feels so good to wear. Just like wearing a blanket!

I dyed this one from it's original cream color to a soft rose, and my dye job is a little blotchy, but I think it kind of adds to the uniqueness of the piece.  Here you can see the back.

And a close-up of the front.  It was quite a bit too big in the neckline for me, and I ended up taking the shoulder seam up another inch or so at the neck on both of them. 


I also made the tops underneath.   The leopard print is from Simplicity 8529 and the solid black is from Butterick 6389.  Both are just very basic knit tops with a high neckline to keep my neck warm.

I made both of these before Christmas and have been reaching for them quite a bit when I'm at home.  They are a little too warm for work, but we keep our house thermostat a little lower, so it's nice to pop them on when I get home.

If you're looking for an alternative to a cardigan, give this pattern a try!  I think that it could also be nice for a spring/summer top made out of a linen or cotton knit. 

Happy Sewing!
Ann