Pattern Review: M7020 + the knit oversized tunic

 I pretty late on sewing this pattern.  I think there should be a list out there of the top 10 things to sew or some sort of checklist so I don’t miss these tried and true patterns.  I find myself going back to the “best of” by year on the Sewing Pattern Review site.  As a newer sewer, it’s helpful to look at those patterns, because most of the “bugs” have been worked out and there are usually tutorials, sew a longs or reviews to help.  I’m learning what alterations I need to make and how to work those into tissue fittings, but that’s still hit or miss with me.

I’m going to focus on some staples and basics with a little new stuff mixed in.  I’ve become a glorified pattern hoarder and I can’t/wont adjust all of these patterns in the two days I give myself a week to sew a wardrobe.  I think in 2017 I may need to set some realistic goals because I can’t possible move as quickly as I would like. I’m finding I’m skimping on pressing, measuring and heming, so things don’t looks as good as they could.  Sooo, building on the basics, realistic expectations, breaking projects down into manageable chunks and reducing the over fitting.

Pattern Description:
Very loose-fitting, pullover tops and tunic have sleeve variations. A: Three-quarter length sleeves. A, B, C: Scoop neckline. B: Bust pocket. C: Contrast sleeves, and left front and right back cut on cross grain. D, E, F: Cowl-neckline. E: Side seam pockets. B, C, D, E, F: Long sleeves. Made view D

 

Pattern Sizing:

16-26, I cut 22 my normal big 4 size

 

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

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

It’s a tunic! Love the cowl , neck variations and length variations. I like the drop shoulder.

 

Fabric Used:

Designer hacci sweater knit from Fabric.com

 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

I added 3 inches to the cowl per the Mimi G tutorial, she used 11 inches. I stabilized the shoulder with clear elastic and neckline with stay tape. I sewed mostly on serger, I hemed on my machine. I added my normal 2″ to the sleeve length. This sweater knit is drapey and the design is loose so I sewed a size smaller (22) instead of grading to 24 at waist, which is my normal top adjustment. I like that it’s very casual, my only issue is, I’m not used to sewing with sweater knit and the open weave took longer for me cutting and hemming. The poly content made the hems resistant to steam so they were not as crisp, that’s ok because it’s a casual top.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Yes, this is my 2nd project. Would like to see the look on a stabler knit. Great for beginners. Pattern is very forgiving and can be done completely on the serger. The hem and sleeve can be left with cut edges if a fabric that doesn’t fray is used, giving a casual look.

 

Conclusion:

I’m late on this pattern, lots of tutorials out there, would recommend for beginner or anyone wanting a fast and easy sew.