I have decided that I have not kept up with this blog as frequently as I had hoped. I started it my senior year of high school and was never able to give it the attention it deserved. My posts are sporadic and all over the place. I have decided I can dedicate time and energy to a blog right now and because of that have opted to start fresh. I will no longer post on this blog.
Starting from scratch, I will be working on a completely new blog. My new blog is Malotke Sews. It is more about my process as being a Costume Designer. The blog is more progress oriented and less just inspiration based. I hope you continue to read my new blog, but enjoy the few years I have spent on this one.
Thank you for reading!
-Brianna Malotke
Usually I make my own patterns and avoid using commercial patterns. I prefer making sure everything fits the way I want it to and then I don't need to make alterations like I do with commercial patterns. Plus, it's fun to drape and pattern from scratch. But I'm looking to expand my wardrobe and try to make more practical clothing that I'll wear instead of just fancy things that sit in my closet.
I've been trying to be more involved in a sewing community, especially since I'm in between costuming projects (my latest show doesn't open until September). So I joined Seen & Sewn's Pattern Testers group and tested out the Aspen Tank.
Here is my progress:
I am a fabric hoarder and love buying fabric even if I don't have a set plan for it. So after getting the Aspen Tank pattern I decided that the striped fabric I had been playing around with draping would be perfect.
After cutting out the pattern pieces, taping them together, I started to pin the pieces. It's a super easy pattern, just 3 pieces if you decide to do it without sleeves (which I did). Just a front bodice, back bodice, and bottom piece. Usually with patterns I like to line everything up, but with this I wasn't too worried and figured the stripes would look great not lined up.
I made the front and back bodice with vertical stripes and did the bottom with the stripes horizontal. It's a nice pattern because, based on your size you need less than 2 yards, which is perfect if you like using remnants like me.
I made a Large even though some of my measurements fell into the X-Large range.
Now another change I made was opting for double fold bias tape because I wanted the arm holes and neckline to be outlined in a solid color. Plus, it added a nice clean line around the bodice. Pictured left is me adding the bias tape.
Pictured right is my final bodice in play. It's perfect for the summer. Lightweight and comfortable. I have to wear a sweater to make it more professional for work, but it's great by itself with jean shorts for this summer weather we've been having.
I would recommended this pattern to anyone looking for a fun summer top! It's a nice flowy option, so depending on how heavy your fabric is it's great for the hot weather. As of now I am planning to remake this top with a different fabric for another fun summer option. If you're interested in giving it a shot check out Seen & Sewn Patterns.
