Pattern Review: Blackwood Cardigan- Wearable Muslin

It’s fall and I’m looking to replace my worn out cardigans from last season.  I’m not sure, but many of my cardigans look a little beat up these days.  I actually wear cardigans all year long because I work indoors and the A/C is always on Arctic so mine need to be replaced more often!  I wanted to try something new, as if I needed another pattern, right?  So I picked the Blackwood cardigan up during a sale.  I really like the modern feel to the cardigan, close fitting, two different views and it’s an Indie pattern.

Helen’s Closet Blackwood Cardigan can be found here.  Here are some of my favorite plus size versions of the Blackwood, Gillian crafts made a cute three quarter sleeve version with mixed fabrics that I love and  Meg from Cookin’ & Craftin’ made the cutest terra cotta colored version in a wool jersey, after reading her review I too think I need a small FBA.  I’ve added some ease to the bust and sleeve pattern pieces so I’m ready for the next one.

Judith Dee posted her cardigan on Instagram and I’m excited to see what she brings to her vlog.  On Instagram, there are a few sewist who have this on their list to sew, I can’t wait to see everyone’s version in the upcoming months.  This version is my wearable muslin and although my band didn’t stretch as much because of the fabric I used, I will wear it, because it’s cute!

Pattern Description:

 
The Blackwood Cardigan is a cozy and versatile addition to your
wardrobe. Designed with layering in mind, it has minimal excess fabric
in the front and a close fit around the neck and shoulders. Its fitted
shape and extra long sleeves make it perfect for wearing under jackets
and vests, while also looking stylish over tank tops and dresses. View B
ends at the hips, while View A extends down to the mid-thigh and
includes patch pockets at hand level.  The Blackwood is intended to be worn open and is not designed to close at the front.

SEWING LEVEL: Advanced Beginner

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

 
Yes

Were the instructions easy to follow?

 
Yes, the instructions are easy to follow and they give lots of good tips on working with knits, what to expect and why they make recommendations.  Great for beginners new to working with knits.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

 
No dislikes really as I’m working on my muslin and the pattern went together quickly which I like.  I like the longer sleeve length, the bands and no closures and hand stitching!  I also like the modern look of the shorter cardigan and the option for the longer sweater and no closures, did I say that already?   I will say that adding the bottom band didn’t look as smooth as I would like and in my Ponte the back neckline didn’t lay flat which is more fabric choice than pattern at this stage.
Fabric Used: Ponte knit blend remnant

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: 

Forward shoulder adjustment as per my normal adjustments.  I also did a length adjustment for my height (5’9″) adding 2 inches.  For the shorter version (View B) I don’t think I will add the two inches, it was a little longer than I would like. I didn’t do my normal bicep adjustment, but I will also need to do a 1 to 1.5 inch bicep adjustment.


Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes, this is my muslin and I would like to work out the neckband issue by using a fabric with more stretch so stay tuned.  Mustard/ yellows look super cute with jeans and it’s a nice fall color, I’m thinking I’ll make another in a mustard Ponte this month, if not, it’s at the top of the list for November.

Next up, for the month of October: a duster (Newlook 6514), quilt (Sew
Much Talent Facebook Group October challenge) and if I can squeeze it in
M6844 in a woven.  I also I sew for Charity so for October there are a
few things I want to get completed, I’m sew busy!

What about you, have you sewn the Blackwood?  What is your favorite cardigan pattern to sew?  What is you favorite sewing charity?