Monday, December 20, 2010

McCall 6084---a Stylish Cardigan

In July I purchased some great fabric bundles and blogged about my desire to sew up several cardigans HERE.  I've been meaning to make cardigans for some time and am happy I FINALLY got around to doing so. I had a friend's birthday party this weekend and needed a cute and effortless outfit to wear. Plus I wanted to wear the boots I just bought on Black Friday. So I figured a cute and quick cardigan would do the trick. This cardigan went together so fast that it was ridiculous (even for a slow poke like me).



Pattern Description:
Cardigans A, B, C, D have cascading shawl collar with shaped front hems, wrong side of fabric shows. I made view D with the long sleeves.

Pattern Sizing:
I cut the smallest size which is the xs (extra small). I cut this size because I was concerned there may be too much ease in this pattern. I wanted my fit to be a little more snug then the pattern envelope picture. I normally wear a size 12 in knits but this would have meant that I cut the size Medium and I knew that would just be way too big on me. So I debated cutting the extra small vs the small. And after taking my lightweight (yet very stretchy) knit into consideration and the fact that I have a narrow back (14" across) and 36C bust, I figured even if I cut the xs I'd have enough ease. I'm happy I went with my gut instinct because I liked the results.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Absolutely!

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Super easy! It took me a minute to figure to sew he front and back pieces together around the neck and shoulders but as you can tell I finally figured it out.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

Fabric Used:
I used some lightweight knits that I purchased from Walmart. They're are thinner then I'd prefer for a dress or even top, but they're perfect for cardigans. Ideally I wish they had a little Lycra in them but they're nice as is. For this pattern I think the proper knit choice is crucial. Too heavy of a knit will make the collar and front appear to bulky. A thinner knit allows for better draping. Of course you guys know that, you've seen RTW knits.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I actually reduced the length by 3" by folding out 1.5" on the bottom fold/lengthen line. I was nervous this would be too long. Looking at the finished product I think the next time I'll only reduce the length by 1.5". I would like the back to be a little longer, especially if I want to wear it with a belt. As a side note, I actually didn't finish any of the seams on this. The knit doesn't fray or ravel and was just so lightweight that I didn't think it was necessary. I just made sure I cut everything straight.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Absolutely and Absolutely! I have a ton of fabric left and want to make this in several more colors. Plus this pattern is super easy to put together. It took me just a little over 2 hours to complete. But I don't want to get too carried away because I'd like to try some of my other cardigan patterns with this same fabric

Conclusion:
Great patterns that's super easy to make and very stylish! It's definitely a keeper and great for a little wardrobe building.

29 comments:

  1. Darling on you. I have several of these. They are so great and soooooo easy to make!

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  2. You made a great sizing decision on this one. Looks wonderful on you, especially with those new boots.

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  3. Nice and very dressy casual. Just the right thing for an afternoon party.

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  4. Wow, that looks great. Very classy. I like your style Victoria!

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  5. Looks great! I love the look of it belted - very flattering!

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  6. Wonderful outfit. You look great!

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  7. Super cute, lady. I like the whole outfit. I cut the Simplicity version of this cardigan last night for my sister.

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  8. Love that cardigan! You look just awesome.

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  9. That looks AMAZING, especially with the boots.

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  10. Great cardigan, it looks fantastic with your boots.

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  11. Love that cardigan - and love the outfit. It looks super cool.

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  12. Such a nice look with your boots. Great color on you too!

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  13. The whole outfit looks really cute on you. Well done making a WalMart knit look designer! Merry Christmas to you and your family.

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  14. I like the drape on the front. Looks great!

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  15. This looks so cute and stylish on you!

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  16. Walmart has knits! I usually see tons of quilting material. Thanks for the tip. I might go and see what they have for dressmaking. Your cardi is cute. :)

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  17. Looks fabulous! I've been meaning to make some of these for myself, too!

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  18. That came out really cute! I can see it being useful in a variety of colors.

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  19. Great cardigan and the whole outfit is smokin hot!

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  20. Nice! I like how it is drapey and how it looks belted. Great boots! hmmmm .... cardigan sewing - instant gratification ... you have me thinking!

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  21. Wonderful outfit and very stylish! You look great!

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  22. I can't say that I like cardigans all that much - I think because they tend to be so flimsy! But I LOVE this one. It is tooo cute! You've styled it quite nicely. I may have to reconsider.....

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  23. That's a great style, you're looking great!!

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  24. I love it! Great color on you too!

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  25. Thanks for your review. I was thinking of making this pattern too and will probably size down to XS even though I never wear XS. By the way you look fantastic in the cardigan.

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Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a comment and for following me on my 10,000 Hour Sewing Challenge:)

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