Butterick 3968 top

Reviewed by:	Ann Smith	About Ann Smith CA USA Member since: 8/24/02 Reviews written: 155 Sewing skills:Advanced Favored by: 186 people patterns reviewed: 152 Bio: I love to sew for fashion, especially unusual designs. I own way too many patterns and fabric! I hav...full profile
Posted on:	2/10/04 7:42 PM
Pattern Size:	Regular
Project Photo:
Pattern Photo:	Pattern Information provided by Ann Smith
Pattern Rating:	Pattern did not work for Me
Pattern Description: This pattern is for a semi-fitted top with bias front and sleeve variations or sleeveless. I made view A which has long sleeves slit open on the top edge. Pattern Sizing: Multi-sized with 6-8-10, 12-13-16, and 18-20-22. Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? I guess so. Were the instructions easy to follow? My instruction sheet was badly printed with the bottom 1/6th of the page blurred and unreadable. I've never encountered this problem before with all the 100s of patterns I've used. Unfortunately that area included the one part of construction unfamiliar to me (the neck self facing which connects to the side seam). I was able to piece together how to do it from parts of the other views. The instructions that are there are fine. What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like the way the drape neckline is handled with self facing. I've decided that the slit open sleeves are very unattractive on me. I guess that may be because it draws the eye to the full bust location and looks too busy. Also, although I thought I added enough for the full bust, the top seems too small across the bust. I think this is because of the bias combined with the lycra in my fabric. Fabric Used: The fabric is stretch silk charmeuse Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: The instructions call for the facing to be finished in normal ways such as a serged edge or turned and top-stitched. I initially serged the edge but I cut that off and pinked the edge because it made a very noticeable line across the upper back. Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Perhaps if you are thin this view would be flattering. I think one of the other views in a different fabric would work for me.