12.12.2014
a new top for winter - NewLook pattern 6735
I have finished a new Alabama Chanin inspired top. It may have been started late last winter season, but is finished just in time for this year's Southern winter. So am I ahead, or behind?! :)
NEWLOOK 6735 was used again, machine sewing (serging) the construction seams, lengthening the 3/4 sleeves to a long sleeve and this time raising the neckline. Perfect! When turning this pattern into an Alabama Chanin inspired look, you don't add the neckline band, so an already kinda low neckline becomes too low for me. This pattern has a nice little gathering around the bustline side seams to enhance the fit. My other Alabama Chanin inspired top can be seen here.
The neckline and sleeve seams/hems were constructed just like my previous AC inspired top by adding a strip of knit fabric cut from the NL6735 neckline band pattern piece, overlapping the front 1/2" leaving the extra length to the inside. The extra length inside is cut off after the hand-stitching is done. This time I wanted a little contrast, so the 'wrong' side of the fabric was made into the 'right' for these added pieces. Also, this time I used a double strand of Coats & Clark Button Craft Thread, which is the thread Natalie Chanin recommends in her Alabama Studio Sewing + Design. I own this book now and it is a fantastic resource All hand-stitches are the herringbone stitch.
Charcoal gray knit photographs terribly, but I hope you can see some of the detail in the photo below. I did not add a 'band' to the bottom hem, just turned the fabric under, marked the depth of my stitching and hand-stitched herringbone stitches all 'round, then cut the excess inside fabric off. This small, seemingly insignificant addition, finishes the little top off nicely to me.
I like that the hand-stitched detail is muted, yet makes this top unique.
A previous day's photos, below, showing the little top all tucked into my leopard linen skirt, worn with tights and boots. Tucked in, the top looks like a bodysuit.
This is a great way to sort of dip one's toes into elements from an Alabama Chanin garment, without feeling overwhelmed with the thought of an entire hand-stitched project. One day I will make an authentic Alabama Chanin garment, but for now, this satisfies.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I love your top, Lisa. I always thought an Alabama Chanin design was too much work, but you have shown me a simple way to get "the look" and I even have New Look 6735 in my stash. Thanks for the inspiration.
ReplyDeleteOh I hope you do Kathy! Look forward to seeing what you make! Thank you.
DeleteI too have this pattern in my stash. I like what you have done and I'm tempted to have a go. Top looks lovely the hand stitching makes it special
ReplyDeleteOh, that's terrific Tracy! Look forward to seeing what you make too!
DeleteBeautiful. It looks great on you.. Happy sewing.
ReplyDeleteThank you Judy! Happy Sewing to you too!
Deleteoh, so nice!! I have the AC books, but so much work...you make it seem possible. Very pretty tops!
ReplyDeleteThank you Mary!
DeleteI agree, the AC look is achievable this way - I have her book, and noticed that garments could be finished just in certain areas with hand stitching. One day I shall follow suit!
ReplyDeleteA very pretty tee, and the hand-stitched look would really complement the leopard skirt. Looks wonderful
Thank you Sarah Liz!
DeleteWonderful work! I'm going to have to check out her book!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for letting me know about the picture "Grace". This picture brings back so many Oklahoma memories at holiday times with family. Especially hard during this time, missing my dad and Grandma. I have been looking on Ebay, and around this is going to be my Christmas present to myself!
Thank you again my fellow Okie in another state! Wishing you and your family a Blessed Christmas filled with many memories!
Glad to have helped you out a little there and hope you are able to find a copy of the print. So neat we both have Oklahoma roots, though we live in opposite directions! Wishing you a Merry and Blessed Christmas too!
Delete