I did receive a copy of this pattern for free in exchange for me testing it and providing feedback. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoy pattern testing and when Mel from The Wearable Studio was looking for pattern testers I thought ‘I can do that’. I like giving back by pattern testing when I can and particularly love that Mel is a fellow Australian.
Pattern Description:
The Canary Cami is a twist on the traditional cami.
When I first saw the line drawings I wasn’t sure it was going to suit me but any doubts were gone when I put it on.
It has a centre front and a centre back piece and two side pieces to form shaping around the bust and the sleeve.
It is a pdf download and there aren’t a lot of pattern pieces so it is pretty quick to put together.
Pattern Sizing:
The pattern comes in sizes 6 – 18. I made the 18 but added a few centimetres to the hips to accommodate my pear shape. The pattern is drafted for a C cup and whilst I am a D cup I took a gamble and didn’t add any to the bust. This turned out to be a good call.
Fabric Used:
I used about 80 cm of 150 cm of Barbie Pink Crepe from The Remnant Warehouse. I bought 2 metres a few years ago and made a top for work and had heaps left over. I loved that I can wash and hang it so I don’t have to iron it.
Whilst the pattern asks for self made bias binding for the finishing at the neck and sleeve I love a contrast binding and raided my stash for some I had made earlier.
I tend to make bias binding en mass when I get a few leftovers pieces that will work. I hate wasting fabric and this is the best way to use it and I love a contrast detail.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
I really loved the finish garment. It looked like the line drawing.
Were the instructions easy to follow?
The instructions were super easy to follow – there aren’t a lot of steps.
But they are clearly written and beginner friendly.
I found that I preferred to finish the sleeve by inserting the bias binding in the round. I also notched the centre front and back seams then overlocked them.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I really like the shape and the amount of fabric you can get this out of. Great for using those left over pieces.
I did wish that the seam allowance was a little bigger so that I could have french seamed it but that’s an alteration I can make next time.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
Other than grading out at the hip I made it straight from the packet.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes – I already have. In some more crepe from The Remnant Warehouse which is also no longer available.
I work in a semi conservative office. Bare shoulders aren’t super appropriate apart from during summer.
This cami is a perfect addition to my work wardrobe and fits comfortably under my suit jacket.
Conclusion:
Would it be wrong to make more than 10?
World About Sam 