The Knit Top: Wrapped RTW Clone

As a working Mama with two young children, "cute", "washable" and "easy to wear" are my watch words. I need simple and fast dressing that helps me feel put together in a hurry. I had a top in my wardrobe that fit the bill. I love this top, but it was getting a little long in the tooth (ie. there were holes all over it). When I have a garment that I love that this happens to, it is a little crushing. I usually just stitch the holes and get on with it, but I thought a little bit about this one and thought it might be better as a pattern in my arsenal. I am so glad that I went this route. The pattern is not a revolutionary concept, but it fits well, is easy to wear and has some visual interest. All in all, an everyday winner in my book.
The Pattern
Here a front and a back view of the top that I wanted to take pattern from:
 

The most interesting piece for me was the front panel. The back of the neck line goes into the shoulder seam. Also, to achieve the body and fullness of the neckline drape this part requires a large curve. It looks little like this:

The Fabric
My first job, past child minding, was at a local fabric shop. I became a bit of a fabric junkie because of this work introduction. This knit was one of the fabrics and I purposed during this time, so it has been in my stash for about 20 years. This cotton knit and I have had a longer relationship than my husband and I. I felt it was time to put it to good use.
It is a nice mid weight 100% cotton knit with a flower pattern in the weave. I remember this fabric coming off the very inexpensive remnants table and as I was laying it out, I discovered why. The flowers that are placed it lines along the warp and weft of the fabric are not straight on grain. Luckily, for the front panels that does not matter much. There is a small amount that can be seen near the hem of the back body, but since I cannot see it, it really won't bother me.

The Process
I decided to finish the sleeve and the body with a band. Without a cover stitch machine, I have trouble getting a hem that makes me happy when sewing with knits. I did try a basic hem on this garment. I hated it so much, I immediately cut it off. I did not even bother taking it out. I CUT IT OFF and attached the band. The banding on the sleeve also adds some much wanted length to the sleeves. The sleeves on the ready to wear version were 3/4 and I get cold. With the addition of the cuff, they are the perfect length. Granted the banding does give it a bit more of a casual feel, but it is worth the trade for a good finish. I will certainly be making more of these in many colors and knit weights.

Happy Sewing!