Pattern Challenge: Simplicity 2646

I just made up Simplicity 2646 (the longer sleeve version with tie belt). 

Or, as I like to call it, the cutest top I'll never wear.

When all is said and done it's way too big for me. Background...I pick pattern sizes based on my bust measurement which usually works out well. I will generally have to take in the hips, raise the hem, or shorten the straps (coming in at only 5'2" if you recall...why can't there be more petite patterns out there?). But this top was overall just too big. There is a lot more fabric in the sleeves than I expected and the span from bust to shoulder is pretty long.

Keep in mind that a "real" seamstress would probably know how to make this fit like a dream. I am not the real deal yet - just a girl who likes to sew a lot with very little pattern experience. But that is why I'm doing the Pattern Challenge with Sarah at Come and See the Seitz! And here is my pattern review for Simplicity 2646...


The Basics: 5/8" straight stitches throughout, nothing tricky. Take it slow when stitching the edges because they're pretty narrow. The pleating is fun but the shoulder instructions are confusing - use common sense rather than trying too hard to decipher and it will turn out fine.

Good: It's an easy pattern to put together and is done quickly.

Bad: The sizing seems to run big and I think making the next size down from what is listed would be good. This is just a guess though! Also, there are some really narrow seams where you press the edge a quarter inch, fold the raw edge to the crease, and then stitch. Maybe these wouldn't bother you but they're hard on my hands and tedious.

Modifications: The only real change I made was bringing in the bust about 2 inches total because I had trouble fitting the sleeves in (my fault since I used bias tape instead of ribbon to trim it...didn't like the look of ribbon).

Now...My loss is your gain! If you actually read through all my jabber you get the chance to own the top! I do not have the time to alter it to my liking and would rather just move on to something else. If you like the top and think it could fit you (maybe even after some modifications) it's yours. Just comment on this post (include your email if it's not publicly listed in your profile). I'll leave comments open through Wednesday 3/24. According to the packaging, the measurements for this size are: bust 36, waist 28, hips 38 but it's pretty roomy and I brought in the bustline a little.

Thanks again for hanging out with me on my sewing adventures! Pin It