Lekala 4161

A TOP FOR MY NIECE:

I made my niece a “jersey top”. I have wanted to make her something for a long time, I just find it is difficult to sew for her when she isn’t close enough to try things on. Still, I have ventured into Lekala patterns again lately and thought I would give it a try on her.

I put her measurements into the right places and ordered a pattern for her. I was very satisfied with the last Lekala project I made, so I was feeling optimistic. But the pattern pieces left me feeling a little uneasy after I taped all the parts of it together.

The bust and under bust measurements seemed to be adequate, but there did not seem to be much room for her tummy and hips. I did not want to make a top that would be tight on her, so I added width to these areas (see above photo). The photo only shows the changes on the front piece, but I added the same measurements to bottom back. Now my pattern at least gives room for her minimum body measurements plus a total of about 3 cm (1 inch).  I do not know if this mistake will happen to other patterns too. I am hoping not, but I will check on it before I make a other project for her in the future.

Here you can see the finished top:

Did you notice the poodle in the center back? I hope my niece does not object, but somehow I had to add something from the animal kingdom. After all January still isn’t over! This is a little reminder that it  is made in the “spirit of animals” (who knows, maybe it will add value to it in the future, long after I am dead and my “true potential is known” ). Fellow sewers, we are artists, aren’t we???

OK, back to reality. The pattern called for “draw string” in the casing, but I used round elastic with a “tightener” (I don’t know what they are called). This I think is more practical than needing to tie a little knot every time the top is in use. Practical is best in my book.

Now I am almost finished……. but of course I had to lengthen the outfit about 10cm or 4 inches (I like a sweater to cover the bottom and the widest part of the hips). A little more in the back then in front. I love rounded finishes like this. It gives room for the behind and I think it is a nice look.

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