Loes Hinse Cowl Top

eviewed by:	Ann Smith	About Ann Smith CA USA Member since: 8/24/02 Reviews written: 154 Sewing skills:Advanced Favored by: 185 people patterns reviewed: 151 Bio: I love to sew for fashion, especially unusual designs. I own way too many patterns and fabric! I hav...full profile
Posted on:	11/24/02 5:04 PM
Last Updated:	1/23/03 4:26 AM
Pattern Size:	Regular
Project Photo:
Pattern Photo:	Loes Hinse Designs Pattern Information Pattern Information provided by Ann Smith
Pattern Rating:	I Highly recommend this pattern
See other patterns in this category:	Top
Available for sale on PR:	Yes
I came home from a recent Loes Hinse class and trunk show armed with new patterns, fabric and inspiration. Loes energy and enthusiasm is infectious and stimulating. I wish you all could have been there. I also went to her boutique in Carmel, Ca. since the class and enjoyed looking at the lovely garments professionally made, all from patterns I now own. There have been many glowing reviews of the cowl top which I have now also made and love. The first one out of a gold knit with crosswise texture is shown here. I cut it as a small and as the tunic which has 3 inches more hip ease than the shorter top. I decided I didn't like the tunic length on me but was glad to have the extra ease through the tummy and hips. I cut off the extra 4 inches and took the side seams in 3/8's for a total of 1 1/2 inches. My measurements are 1 inch more than the bust size and one inch less than the hip. So the ease allowed for the bust was enough to accommodate my fuller bust size but the hip ease on the shorter top would not be enough. I feel the cowl is a little high for me and was tempted to cut it down for my second top. This would be very simple to do. But I cut it the same and did a pinned testing and decided I liked it as it was. The second fabric, which is a lovely ribbon knit from Gigi's website (thanks, Gigi). drapes beautifully so that the cowl is more relaxed. It is with the photo with my review of Loes Hinse Swing Skirt. Just an example of how different fabrics make the same pattern work a little differently. The sewing is very straightforward and simple. I did need to fuss a little to keep the hems from stretching, particularly on the ribbon knit. A straight stitch worked better than the narrow zigzag.