thread and graphite: July 2014

i bought this roxanne - victory pattern a while ago when we first got them in at the needle shop. i had a difficult time deciding on fabrics until my last few days of working at the shop. *sadhorns* i liked the flowy look of the top, the crisp collar and the asymetrical hemline.

i picked two voile/lawn weight (lightweight) fabrics that were about 60" wide. i think i purchased approx 3/4 yds of the black and 1 3/4 yds of the pyramid fabric.

i decided to try version 2 first. the layout instructions were slightly confusing as you can see below:

in the cutting instructions, you are directed to cut 2 pcs of pattern piece I out of interfacing. however, in the diagram under interfacing, the pattern piece J is pictured. then later, in the sewing instructions, the pattern piece I is referenced again... so, i cut per the cutting and sewing instructions and ignored the diagram... :) also, i recommend taking the time to mark and notch wherever indicated. no short cuts, newbies!!!

regarding the sewing instructions, i ignored the first one, indicating that the edges of some pattern pieces be finished beforehand... i just french seamed everything.... i'm sure this would make the project take longer than usual and be more difficult for a beginner, but i prefer the look of these seams...

and as i went along, i realized that french seams complemented the top... between the care taken to create the pocket, the pleated collar and the simple, clean beauty of the facings and back pleats, the pressing and understitching, etc... zig zagged or serged seams just didn't ring true for me...

i really enjoyed making this top and will definitely make more. if you haven't made this top, i highly recommend it! it was a lot of fun and worth the time and effort. i think the only thing i'd do differently next time is adding the bias to the armholes BEFORE sewing up the side seams. it was awwwwwkward... :)

and here she is! she's a beauty and i cannot wait to take her out for a twirly test drive! :)