McCall's 6991 | Tab Sleeve Twist Wrap Front Top - Take Two!
12:00 AM
If I make a pattern more than once, you know I really must love it. When I made my first version of McCall's 6991, I knew I'd make another one.
The first version was made in a synthetic fabric. I wasn't completely sure if it would be a top I'd wear a lot, so I really didn't want to make a big investment. But since the end of the year, I've reached for that top multiple times.
This time I used this awesome, graphic polka dot and stripe black and cream silk crepe de chine that I bought from Mood. I would link to it, but it is so great that it sold out fast!
I know a lot of others struggle with silk sewing. I don't find the fabric to be difficult or slippery in the least. It's one of my absolute favorite fabric to work with. I love the feel of it. My number one tip is to simply cut each piece out on a single layer. That way it will remain on grain.
Being that the front of this top is one large bias-cut piece, there was no way that the print could be evenly matched. But I really like the effect that the bias draping created. I did put consideration into the back. I cut the yoke on the cross grain and made sure that the back's pattern placement was symmetrical.
On this version of M6991, I still omitted the pocket on view B as I did in the first one. And I used the tab sleeve from view C.
And per usual, I used a Microtex needle, made French seams and created narrow hems. I really, really love this top. And who knows? There may be a third...
.JPG)
53 comments
This shirt is to die for - so gorgeous! Please do share if you have any more tips for sewing with silk.
ReplyDeleteI shared my favorites. Next time I'm sewing with silk, I'll blog anything else I can think of. Thanks!
DeleteI like this! Unusual drape on the front and your use of the stripe in the fabric was very clever.
ReplyDeleteNice styling with the skinny jeans and heels, looks like a lovely sunny day, your backdrop reminds me of being at the seaside.
I hope you don't mind me saying, but your commitment to fitness is admirable, you look very good!
Thanks Miss J. I've worked really hard, so your compliment is very much appreciated!
DeleteLove it!
ReplyDeleteThanks Aisha!
DeleteLove this pattern like both versions you've made. Must go and purchase it while McCalls are half price.
ReplyDeleteThanks Louise!
DeleteFabulous top !
ReplyDeleteThanks Sheila!
DeleteGreat fabric choice! It really makes the top sing!
ReplyDeleteThanks Carolyn!
DeleteYou look fabulous, Erica! Great coordination of pattern & fabric. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteThanks couture a LA mode!
DeleteI love it! And I'm with you-- I generally don't find silk crepe de chine difficult to sew. It's just enough stiffer than charmeuse that the pieces don't deform, and the pebbly surface texture cuts the slipperiness enough to work with it easily.
ReplyDeleteIf you have any good suggestions for how to sew rows upon rows of pintucks in silk crepe, on the other hand...
I've never had a project that included silk and pintucks. It does sound divine! Thanks!
DeleteReally , really nice job !!! Silk of any kind still intimidates me - but your giving me inspiration to TRY -
ReplyDeleteThanks
If you're intimidated, you could try buying a yard or two of silk in the weave you're thinking of trying from Dharma Trading Company-- they sell wholesale, so it's a lot cheaper than most other online stores, but you can generally only buy white or black. Otherwise, you can see if any of your local stores or any online stores sell remnants. I haven't looked at online fabric stores in a while, so I don't know, but F&S Fabrics in Los Angeles usually has a remnant bucket with silk remnants at a substantial discount.
DeleteThanks and this is great advice!
DeleteDoing a little blog walking this am, always love to find new blogs. Made my way via a mutual friend, Karen at Flamingo K's. I haven't taken my sewing machine off the shelf since my daughter stopped needed me to make costumes for her theatre projects in high school and college, lol. I got by, but was never good at it to my way of thinking. LOVE the top, and stripes and polka dots together is stunning. Thinking something similar to that knitted with some luscious yarn would be cool. Though I rarely get around to making anything for myself, and again...my skills are a bit laking.
ReplyDeleteSandy's Space
Thanks for stopping by Sandy!
DeleteI love the fabric and the finished result is great. I actually have this pattern and must think about sewing it. I've never sewn with silk, though. I think I'll do as you did, sew up a cheaper version for fit and to see if I like it on, then go for it if I do. I'm a recent followed of your blog and find it inspiring.
ReplyDeleteThat's an excellent idea! Thanks Anne!
DeleteI hadn't considered this pattern previously but I seriously love this top. Couple questions - would it work with a skirt? The fabric, is it slippery? Would it help to temporarily stiffen it with Sullivan's fabric spray stabilizer?
ReplyDeleteI would wear it with a pencil skirt. Or one with fit and flare. I didn't find the fabric slippery. But if you do, stabilizer is the way to go. Thanks Mary Beth!
DeleteAwesome! So fresh and modern!
ReplyDeleteThanks Virginie!
DeleteI love that top, too. I wear my red one quite a bit and will be taking it on a trip to Napa tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteIt's such a fun top. Enjoy your trip Lori!
DeleteI really like this pattern on you! Love the fabric you used for this one!
ReplyDeleteThanks Linda!
DeleteI love your top, the stripes make a lovely effect. I have the Style Arc version of this pattern and still need to get some fabric that is the same on both sides for it. Must get onto it before this trend goes out of style!
ReplyDeleteThanks Allison!
DeleteAll kinds of fierce Erica!
ReplyDeleteThanks Candice!
DeleteTruly third worthy. This one is gorgeous too!
ReplyDeleteThanks Faye!
DeleteLovely top!
ReplyDeleteThanks Etta!
DeleteLove this blouse!
ReplyDelete♥♥♥
Jeanne
http://fashionmusingsdiary.com
Thanks Jeanne!
DeleteOh wow, 2 totally different looks for this blouse awesome job. I have some silk that I've been afraid to sew but I'm gonna give it a try.
ReplyDeleteThanks Bobbie!
DeleteErika, that fabric is everything! Love the whole look!
ReplyDeleteThanks Norie!
DeleteBeautiful! I'm a sucker for anything black and white and your fabric is gorgeous. I'll have to give this pattern a try. Now that I recently retired, I'm hoping to get back into the sewing groove. :) P.S.- love those divine shoes!
ReplyDeleteThanks Belle!
DeleteErica, you did an outstanding job on all versions of this top! This one is particularly beautiful with the pattern of the silk you used! I love the way you styled it, I just love everything about the entire look! Exceptional job Erica!
ReplyDeleteThanks Myra!
DeleteLove this top - it's beautiful!
ReplyDeleteI am battling with the twist. Can you help
ReplyDeleteAm also battling with the twist can u help pls. U look gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteYou should reach out to McCall Pattern Company. They can help you.
Delete