My Linda Top (Pattern Review No. 105)

Another freebie I received from Pattern Review is the Linda Top. It is a pattern for a necktie top with options for a sleeveless or 3/4 sleeves version. I tried the sleeveless version using a rayon jersey polka dot fabric from my stash.

The pattern was drafted to be very snug so that the ruching across the front would not sag. 

What's nice about the ruching is one has the option to choose how to distribute the gathers. One can spread it out evenly or concentrate it on a specific area of the front.

I like the armhole cut of the sleeveless version. There is an option for elbow-length sleeves which I might try next. 

Although this was an easy project, I was a bit stumped at the part where I had to sew the necktie to the neckline. It was my first time dealing with a necktie style so I emailed Deepika of Pattern Review and she was very quick to help. I think it helps to think of the necktie as a magnified binding piece for the neckline. The only thing is there will be a small gap left unfinished to allow wiggle room for tying the rest of the tie into a bow. 

This part shows part of the necktie serged to the neckline.

Instead of stopping, I continued serging even across the free edge of the neckline so the whole neckline is finished.

Overall, I'm quite happy with this pattern. Next time I sew it, I will have to use a contrasting fabric for the neck tie. The polka dots in my fabric camouflaged the necktie and it's hard to see it. 

For anyone wanting to try the pattern, I suggest making a muslin as the amount of stretch in the fabric used will play a big role in the fit.