I purchased this beautiful Mood Fabrics poly floral jersey at the first of September:
I bought 2 yards with the intention of one knit top. Well, I pulled out the Renfrew top and Jalie 2921 trying to decide which one to make. Sometimes I feel like that is the hardest decision in sewing—what pattern to use? I posted my dilemma on Instagram and Carolyn was the only one to voice an opinion, which was the Jalie. Well, I cut out the Renfrew first but no worries, Carolyn, I had enough fabric to make the Jalie, too. My choice of the Renfrew, was one that would show off this fabric, it looks like a watercolor. I selected the fabric for the purple and plums which seemed more fall to me. Editor’s note: Loads more jersey prints available here at MoodFabrics.com.
It is a fun top, looks good with dark corduroys and will be good for the fall. This is the first time I made the 3/4 sleeve in the Renfrew. In the future, I need to eliminate some of the width in the cuffs, as they are a bit wide for my forearm. So do note that if you make this sleeve length.
I had enough fabric for the Jalie 2921, so in the end I did not have to pick one pattern over the other. Carolyn, you were right, the Jalie tie top is a much better fit for the fabric. It just looks so much better in the combination of the fabric and pattern. In the future, I will cut out and sew your suggestion first. My moral of this story, when in doubt, ask a friend! With all the social media, opinions are readily available. My social media choice is Instagram, because as the name states, it is instant!
With this Jalie top and the cut of the top, I will be able to wear this top with jackets and cardigans. This floral knit was very easy to sew. My only tip if using a regular sewing machine to hem the top, interface the hem with a knit fusible. Make sure the stretch of the knit interfacing is going with the stretch of the knit. By using the interfacing, it will stabilize the hem, especially if using a twin needle.
Here is a side-by-side comparison
Which do you like better?
