New Itch to Stitch Top/Dress PDF Pattern...

 Itch to Stitch has a new top/dress pattern and it is perfect for hot summer days. Here is the line drawings:

This is the Aiken Polo Shirt/Dress pdf pattern.  It is a classic polo style.  

Here are the features:

• Regular and full bust options
• Bust dart on full bust option
• Sleeveless, short-sleeved, and long-sleeved options
• High-hip-length shirt or knee-length dress
• Side slits for comfort and ease of movement
• Optional ruffles along the front placket
• Classic polo collar and front placket
• Designed for light- to medium-weight knit fabrics

Skill Level:  Intermediate

Sizes:  00 - 40

Be sure to check out all the testers' versions for inspiration.

The Aiken Polo Shirt/Dress pdf pattern will be 20% off through 11:59 Mountain Time on July 21, 2026.  Remember discounts will stack.   Have fun shopping!

I am an Itch to Stitch affiliate.  Any purchases made through the links on this page will result in a small commission at no cost to you.  Thank you!

Happy Sewing!

Inspiration...Oversized Button Down Shirt

 This particular shirt is probably more for cooler weather than warm weather but it is not too early to start sewing for cooler weather.

This is the Large Striped Cotton Poplin Oversized Button-Down Shirt by Akris punto. Price tag: $775.00. Details:  laarge striped print with patch pocket at hip, point collar, button front, long sleeves, button cuffs, oversized fit, hem below hip, shirttail hem with size slits, cotton/elastane, dry clean.

I really like the idea of this top.  The use of the stripes is great.  I would think that a slim pant of pants would be great with this.

There are several companies that have oversized button-down shirts.  It is a simply google search.  The inspiration shirt does not have a yoke and I could not find a button down pattern without the yoke.  So, you can decide the yoke issue.

Otherwise, I love the stripe idea but not the price.  Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful. 

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Ruffled Top

 I found this feminine little top:

This is the Ruffle Trim Blouse from Ann Taylor.  Price tag: $109.00.  Details:  Flouncy Ruffles, pintuck details, v-neck, long sleeves with smocked detail, lined body, relaxed fit, 22-inches long, polyester.

This is such a pretty little top.  I have not seen any exact patterns like this.  However, you might be able to use this pattern:

This is the Seamwork Cosmo Collared Blouse pattern.  The silhouette is similar to the inspiration photo.  Changes would be remove the collar and add the flounce.  You might be able to use the collar as the start of the flouce and then add length for the center front seam.  As for the pintucks, it would be easiest to stitch them before cutting out the top.   This way you do not have to figure out the extra width.  The sleeves would need a little extra length to get the flounce.  I do not know if width would need to be added to get the smocking.  That is a detail that would need to be investigated.  Of course, you could just add the flounce and simply the sleeve detail by just having a row of elastic.

Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Embroidered Top

 This top is so springy:

This is the Cotton Embroidered Yoke Top from Bodin.  Price tag: $110.00.  Details:  relaxed shape that falls between the hip and the waist, embroidered yoke front/back, embroidered front bodice, notch neckline, cotton, machine washable.

This is a sweet little top.  I would use this pattern to kinda duplicate the look:

This is the Kit Blouse pdf pattern from Seamwork.  It is not actually like the inspiration photo but I think it would work.  You could still put plenty of embroidery around the neckline and the front bodice.

I did find a couple of options on Amazon that might be wonderful for this top.  Amazon is a good option for me as then I do not need to pay for shipping.

Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Stitching!

Another Pattern ...

 I decided that this pattern needed a place in my stash.  It is a fairly simple blouse and should be easy to make.  Here is the line drawing:

This is the Thea Blouse by Sinclair Patterns.  I like the simple style of this blouse and think it will work well for me. The sleeves on the blouse appear to have a good volume which I really like.  I am rarely happy with changing the sleeve/armscye on a pattern.

Here is to me for maybe getting it fitted by the end of summer for new fall/winter blouses.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Double Cloth Top

 I really need to add more top to my wardrobe.  This style of top is a maybe.  It is a little outside my comfort zone.  Here it is:

This is the Rae Double Cloth Top from Boden.  Price tag: $99.00.  Details:  100% cotton, box pleats, puff sleeves with stretch in the cuffs, straight as in not too tight, falls between waist and hip.

I was not sure what double cloth was but found and explaation here at Blackbird Fabrics.  The color of this top is perfect which probably means you can not find it.  Here is the pattern that I thought would work will for this top:

This is the line drawing for the Kit Blouse pdf pattern from Seamwork.  I would probably drop the back tie and maybe change the elastic to shirring. Otherwise, I think it is pretty good match visually for the inspiration photo.  Not exact but fairly good.

Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Stitching!

New Itch to Stitch Top...

 Itch to Stitch has a new top pattern.  Here is the line drawings:

This is the Mariz Top pdf pattern by Itch to Stitch.  It is a pattern for all seasons.

Features:

• Regular and full bust options
• Raglan sleeves with gathers at the front and back
• Two neckline options: round neck with neck band, or round split neck finished with binding
• Three sleeve lengths: short, medium-short, and long
• Designed for light- to medium-lightweight knit fabric

Mariz Top pdf pattern will be 20% off through May 12, 2026.  Now, is a good time to think about picking up other patterns as there is a volume discount that applies automatically to your cart.

Be sure to check out the testers' version of this pattern for inspiration.

I am an Itch to Stitch affiliate.  Any purchases made through the links on this page will result in a small commission at no cost to you.  Thank you!

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Linen Top

 Summer time is meant for linen.  I believe it is also meant for sleeveless tops on those really hot days of summer and this top definitely qualifies.

This is the Sophia Linen Top from Boden.  Price tag: $110.00.  Details:  100% linen, straight not too tight, machine washable, designed to fall between the waist and the hip, keyhole and button fastening at back neckline.

I love this top.  I do not have any striped fabric stashed. I am sure if you look that a similar look can be found.  Here is the pattern:

This is the Phoebe Tank from fabrics-store.com.  This pattern would definitely need to be fitted but once it is done you can make many woven tank tops.

Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Sewing!

Another Pattern...

 So, I caved yet again on another pattern.  Yes, it was the  Itch to Stitch Brisas Pullover pdf pattern.  Here is the line drawing:

This is a top that I had been thrinking about making.  I was going to purchase new fabric but after seeing the shipping costs I decided to check the stash first.  I think that I found a couple of fabrics that will work well.  Just need to double check the stretch.  Then, find zippers and matching thread.  Hopefully, the thread will not be much of a challenge.  

I have been trying harder to use these patterns that I have purchasing rather than just collecting them.  I am hoping to perhaps sew this over the summer preparing for cool fall days.

This pattern is still on sale through today (April 21,2026).  All discounts still apply so it is a good time to pick up any other pattern you have been eyeing.

I am an Itch to Stitch affiliate.  Any purchases made through the links on this page will result in a small commission at no cost to you.  Thank you!

Happy Stitching!

New Itch to Stitch Pullover PDF Pattern...

 Yes, Itch to Stitch has another fabulous pullover pattern.  Funny thing is I was just thinking that this type of pullover was needed in my wardrobe.  Here is the line drawing:

This is the Itch to Stitch Brisas Pullover pdf pattern.  This sporty pullover gives you princess seams for shaping, half-zip front with stand-up collar.  It has dropped shoulders with classic cuffs and bands.  Two lengths options are offered.

Features:

• Regular and full bust options
• Half-zip front opening
• Stand-up collar (can be folded down)
• Relaxed fit with dropped shoulders
• Front and back princess seams for shaping
• Short and hip-length options
• Bottom band finish
• Sleeve cuffs
• Designed for medium-weight knit fabric

Be sure to check out the testers' versions.  They are wonderful.

The Brisas Pullover pdf pattern will be 20% off through April 21, 2026.  No codes are needed.  If you have been eyeing other patterns, it is a good time to pick them up as part of the buy more, save more discounts will still apply.

I am an Itch to Stitch affiliate.  Any purchases made through the links on this page will result in a small commission at no cost to you.  Thank you!

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Funnel Neck Top

 I am hoping to get a few items made this year and something similar to this top may just be a step up from a regular t-shirt:

This is the Cross Hatch Stretch Jersey Funnel Neck Tank by Eileen Fisher. Price tag: $138.00.  Details:  mid-weight jersey, sleeveless, funnel neck, three-inch side slits, close at shoulders widser at hem, tencel lyocell with lyrca.

Finding a pattern is not that hard.  I actually knew of one the second I saw the tank.  Here it is:

This is the Edie Top pdf pattern by Seamwork.  It is not a perfect version of the inspiration photo but it is very close.  I suspect that it is closer in the hip than the Eileen Fisher tank.  However, that is an easy fix.

This would be very fun in a shade of pink and I think that there is some hiding in my stash. Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful. 

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Polo Shirt

 This top makes me smile.  I know it is the colors.

This is the Colorblock Rib Knit Polo Sweater by Akris Punto.  Price tag: $730.00.  Details:  spread collar, split V front, long sleeves, slim fit, pullover style, wool, color blocked collar and front band, dry clean. 

I know the perfect for this top:

This is the Frankie Polo by Love Notions.  You get lots of options with this one and the collar and placket can be done is wovens.  It might be a chance to use up those smaller bits of fabric you can not bring yourself to toss.

Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Sewing!

New Patterns...

 I took advantage of the Itch to Stich sale and purchase a couple of patterns:

This is the Andorra Top & Vest pdf pattern.  I think it was released in November or December 2025 but I did not take advantage of the release sale.  After seeing several made up, I decided that I needed this pattern.

This is the Kashi Tee & Dress pdf pattern.  Am I the only one looking for the perfect tee?  Maybe this is the one.

Well, I have plenty to keep me busy over the next few weeks/months.  More snow might keep me more focused on sewing but who knows, I seem to jump from activity to activity.

Hopefully, I can get more basic items made that fit somewhat reasonably.

I am an Itch to Stitch affiliate.   Any purchases made through a link on this page will result in a small commission to me at no cost to you.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Polo Top

 Today's inspiration is all about casual.

This is the Merin Virgin Wool Polo Top by Akris Punto.  Price tag: $730.00.  Details:  color blocking, collared v neckline, relaxed fit, hip length, pullover style

I love the look of this top but I would not want to deal with the wool.  That we why we sew, right?  Here is a pattern that does a good job duplicating the style of inspiration:

This is the Frankie Polo by Love Notions.  The pattern comes in 2 lengths with 3 sleeve lengths.  It is meant for a knit fabric but the collar and placket can be done in a woven.

This pattern can easily be color blocked like the inspiration photo.  This is where the whole scraps of knit can easily be used.  It would be harder to find a collar similar to the inspiration photo.

Wawak carries solid colored rib collars.  I also found collars and cuffs at this Etsy store.  Maybe you can find other suppliers.  Of course, this type of matching can be harvested from clothing as well.  Just make sure it is in good condition.

Hope you are inspired to sew something wonderful.

Happy Stitching!

Love Notions Barrington Boxy Tee...

 I am still experimenting with pattern fitting via the Pin & Needles fitting videos.  I chose the Love Notions Barrington Boxy Tee.  Here is the line drawing:

This tee is a boxy tee that hits at the high hip.  I choose to do the long sleeve, crew neck, and the split sides.  I chose a large in the shoulder/armscye area and an x-large from the armscye to the hip.

Here is the the pattern changes:

The only change that I made on the sleeve was to make the sleeves a little wider through the bicep area.  I followed what I had seen a "cutter" do to a shirt and decided if they could do it so can I.

The bodice changes were minor.  My bust point is shorter than average so I move the bust point up 1 inch by taking a pleat in the pattern.  To get the waist in the correct spot, I added 3 inches just above the waist.  I made identical changes to the back bodice.

We have been having renovations down and I had to move all of my fabric from their hiding spot in my room.  It was like Christmas.  I found many fabrics that I had forgotten about.  I found this wonderful cotton knit in a royal blue.  

I have been having pretty good luck with making changes according to the Pins & Needles fitting method so I ditched the muslin and just made the top.  I did have challenges but it was 100% machine issues.  My coverstitch machine just did not want to function properly.  I ended up having to finish one side of the bottom hem in a different stitch because the lower looper on the coverstitch machine would not stay threaded.  It was very frustrating.  Here are the results of my efforts:

The fit is far from perfect but every bit as good as anything I can purchase.  In looking at the pictures, I am wondering if I need a round back adjustment.  Many tops need a high round back adjustment but I do not feel like that is the case here.  I will definitely make a couple more for spring/summer because that v-neck version really calls to me.  Maybe if I dig around a little more I will find more suitable knit fabrics for this pattern.

Happy Stitching!

One More Pattern...

 I do not really need any more patterns.  I have tons of patterns that I have not tried yet.  However, I love to sew for the guys in my life so I added one more pattern.  Here it is:

This is the Love Notions Dockside Henley and Polo.  You get a crew neck t-shirt, a henley t-shirt, and a polo.  All with short or long sleeves and with a pocket or without a pocket.  It seems like a pretty basic pattern that could have a lot of mileage.

Now, I am on the look out of interesting activewear fabric that is manly.  Yes, I know that many solids will work but the golf lover in my life rarely wears solids.  If you know of good sources, let me know.

Happy Stitching!

New Pattern...

 Well, I fell for another pattern.  I have been working really hard to not purchase patterns because I have so many I have not even used yet.  Here is the pattern:

This is Amarena Dress by Liesl & Co. This is a perfect hot weather dress for me and a little different styling than I have worn the last two or three years.  This pattern has a bonus and it is a cut line for a top.  For me, this could be a fit once and have four dresses and tops.

We will see how it works out.  Next year has the potential to be another lemony sort of year but I am still going to plan to sew.  It helps keep my sanity.

Happy Stitching!

New Itch to Stitch Iguazu Top PDF Pattern...

 Itch to Stitch's newest top pattern is here.  Here is the line drawing:

This is The Iguazu Top pdf pattern.  This pattern has the following features:

• Regular bust and full bust options for an excellent fit
• Waterfall-style draped cowl neckline
• Semi-fitted silhouette
• Sleeve options: cap, short, ¾, and long sleeves
• Designed for light- to medium-weight knit fabric with drape 

The sewing skill level is beginner+.  The size range is from 00 to 40.  The Iguazu Top is on sale through October 27, 2025. All discounts apply.  So, the more you purchase the more you save.

Check out the testers' version of the Iguazu Top here.

Think of those fabulous fabrics that will make this cute little top.  Quick and easy holiday looks.

I am an Itch to Stitch affiliate.   Any purchases made through a link on this page will result in a small commission to me at no cost to you.

Happy Stitching!

Inspiration...Popover Shirt

Here is a perfect top for everyday use.  Here is that tunic:

This is the Wool-Cashmere Flannel Pocket Popover Shirt by Lafayette 148.  Price tag:$ 1,198.00.  Details:  Relaxed shirt, drop shoulder long sleeve, pleated cuff, pullover, flap patch pockets, high-low shirttail hem, dry clean only, 94% wool/ 4% cashmere/ 2% elastane.

That price tag is a whole lot out of my price point but it is reasonably easy to replicate.  I have picked a pattern that is actually in my pattern stash and is not exactly like the inspiration pattern but it is a tunic.  Here is the line drawing:

This is the Liesel & Co Galley Tunic & Dress pattern.  This is a relaxed-fit pull-on tunic.  It does not have the dropped shoulders or the pockets on the tunic front.  In looking at the material list, it might not be appropriate for the flannel but I think I would try it if it was not a heavy flannel.

Hope you are inspired to create something wonderful.

Happy Stitching!

New Summer Top...

 I was browsing through my stash of pdf patterns and found the Atelier Scammit Declic hiding.  This looked like a very simple pattern and I had the perfect fabric sitting in the remnants pile.  Here is the line drawing:

This is a simple blouse with shoulder pleats.  Here is the remnant:

I had previously made a bow tie blouse from this fabric and had about 1 1/4 yard leftover.  It felt good to be able to use a remnat of fabric.  The pattern is really long between the shoulder and the high bust so I removed 3 inches.  Yeah, I know that is a lot but it was at 15-inches before the change and 12-inches is still longer than I need.  

I did get stuck on cutting out the interfacing.  I suppose I should just order some stablizing tape so I do not get to take the time to it out.  The pattern required front/back neckline, shoulders, and armscyes to be stablized.  In the end, this was not needed.  I think I would rather just do a stay stitch.

I did not make an actual muslin of the this pattern.  I used the tape measure to determine any length changes and just went with it.  Here are the results:

I am hoping that this will become a new favorite top.  I am pleasantly surprised with how it turned out.  It will remain to be seen whether or not it will be too hot on hot summer days.

Happy Stitching!