The “That’s Torn It” Top
The Facts
Pattern: Kwik Sew 3691
Fabric: Blouse Weight Silk
Year: Pretty Current
Notions: Satin Bias Binding
Time to complete: 1 hour
First worn: For the photos
Wear again: No
Total price: A few dollars
When I heard about this challenge I knew I would have no trouble pulling something for it from the stash. This silk is a a rather recent addition and just cost a few dollars at a church fair that I frequent.
I seriously ran out of time this week. I pleated this up and stay stitched the pleated neckline, leaving the armholes unfinished. I threw some bias binding on the neck and it slipped and slid around, fine silk does that.
So I was all ready for my photos outside in front of the Bougainvillea bush when the neighbours’ gardener turned up and started mowing next door – I was too embarrassed to go outside and get all posey, so I put another load of washing in the machine and rip, went the armhole!
I think this silk is fairly old – probably from the 60′s and it has perished – silk is vulnerable to light, heat and microbes – I was glad I didn’t spent hours finishing it the way I should have. But this was perfect as a toile for this pattern, I was not in love with the print and didn’t pay a lot for it. I plan to make more versions of this easy top and I was pleased to find the exact neckline that I was looking for.
I also recently purchased this necklace which is 1940′s Celluloid Autumn Leaves – how perfect right?!
It was hot today in Sydney – 34 degrees – Summer’s coming!
It should be no surprise by now that I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your necklace!! The top is adorable on you and I’m sorry the fabric gave. You are wise to use it as a muslin if you’re not into doing the repair. It’s still quite pretty on you : )
Thank you Loran – I can’t believe it own it!! I have been lusting after Bakelite Cherry jewellery for ages!
A really pretty blouse.. So sorry it tore..
Thank you Judy – It’s ok, I have two more blouses like this cut out – now I can get started on them!
Oh, man, that tear sucks! I love the neckline and, while you weren’t a big fan of the print, it is so cute. Would have been great under a jacket. But, you know, with a minor repair, it still could be!
Yes, I agree – it would be perfect for work under a jacket, but no – I have moved on – I think the fabric will continue to tear when I wear it and I want to avoid a wardrobe malfunction. Imagine, me miles away from home in a torn top :o
When I saw the first photo all I could think is ‘that is beautiful fabric – love that top’. It’s a shame it tore because it looks so worth finishing.
Thanks Jen, the fabric had a lovely drape and the silk has such a beautiful lustre. But it’s off to the preschool with the lot now. Will make great trees or leaves in the kids collages!
I agree with Jen, I love the fabric and the pattern. Boo hoo to the the tear. I hope you make it again.
Thanks Barbara! You know I will make it again!! It’s my thing!
I think the fabric is lovely. Both the prints and the pattern are great. They go so well together. It’s a real pity that it tore. I would have worn that top!
Boo :-( What a pity! I know you aren’t fussed, but I’m so sad! The fabric is gorgeous, and the neckline is just divine on you. And I love that you managed to make the bougainvillea look fall-y!
I liked the print – so retro, the yellow reminds me of my parents 60s vinyl dining room chairs – but in a good way! Childhood memories and all that :) Shame it ripped but if it helped as a muslin for future tops then it still served some purpose.
Glad to hear you’ll sew this again Trish, it’s the perfect cut for you. Lovely!