Possibly the only thing better than finding a new pattern that is simple, quick to sew and oh so comfy is finding two patterns fitting this brief at the same time. Kate over at the Aussie brand Pattern Emporium has gone above and beyond this week releasing two patterns that check the boxes of ‘easy to sew’, “quick to sew’ and ‘comfort plus”. The Carefree Cuffed Tee and Sporty Lounge Skirt (see seperate post) are certain to become wardrobe staples.
First up we have the Carefree Cuffed Tee which is sure to become a wardrobe staple. I was lucky enough to test this pattern and played around with the different options:
- Neckline: Crew or relaxed fit
- Sleeve Cuffs: Twisted or regular
- Length: Short, Regular, Tall
For my test fit I chose a beautiful double brushed polyester (DBP) in a poppy print from Material Magic. This was actually my first time sewing with DBP, initially I found it hard to move through my machine however after a few slight adjustments it moved through and felt like butter. For my test sew I opted for the relaxed neckline, twisted sleeve cuffs and the long length. Overall I was happy with the result however my initial plan for this fabric/print was for wearing to the office or out and about on ANZAC day and Remembrance day. The end result was on my short 164cm frame was a little too long for the intended purpose of this particular top. However, the length would be ideal for a comfy top to stay home and lounge around the house whilst reading a good book on a cool winter’s day.
Happy with my test result, I decided to move on to my next one and chose a plain white Cotton Spandex from the Australian supplier Lush Fabrics. Liking the neckline of my test make I also stuck with the relaxed neckline for this top but this time round opted for the short length with a regular cuff. I am absolutely in love with the end result and how it pairs with jeans, shorts or a skirt. For me I found this to be the perfect length, super comfy and a really basic sew suitable to any beginner sewer.
Having found success in my previous makes I decided to push the boundaries a little with the next one and experiment with a little pattern hack in the form of some colour blocking. For this I chose a solid black Cotton Spandex from LUSH fabrics and paired it with the colourful print “Rock Garden – in black” (Mega Scale), designed by Rach Jackson for Material Difference. Once again I went with a relaxed neckline, short length and straight cuff sleeves. Pretty happy with my first attempt at colour blocking although the front and rear does not quite match up. Can definitely see more colour blocking in by future.
Overall I love how quick and easy this top was to create. The different length options gave me the ability to create a long version perfect for lounging around the house or a short version which paired nicely with jeans for a smart casual look. I found the sizing true to the measurements table and the tutorial contained really easy to follow step by step instructions. I already see more of these in my future and its sure to become a wardrobe staple.
Well that’s a wrap of my tester pics for the Carefree Cuff Tee excuse me whilst I raid my fabric stash to make up a couple more! Like the pattern? You can get it here.
Happy Sewing,
Tara xx
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