Hi everyone! This is my first post as an editor of the CSC. I can’t wait to get cracking on some new post ideas, and be a part of this great community!
Pattern name: Made for Mermaids Mama Ava Top
Size range (with measurements): The sizes are colors, not numerical. It didn’t bother me, as most indie pattern sizing is arbitrary anyway. (bust sizes 30/31-49/51)
What size did you make? Green (bust size 41-42). I normally select my high bust measurement when sewing knits.
What are your measurements, height, and body type? Full Bust 47″, High Bust 42.5”, waist 39″-41”, hip 48″, Body Shape: Celloish, Height: 5’7″, Bra size: 38F
What adjustments did you make and how long did they take?: None. I did make the tunic version as it’s drafted for someone who is 5’5” and I have a long torso- so it worked out to be the correct shirt length for me. I chose the size according to my high bust adjustment, most tee shirts I have a decent amount of negative ease on the bust, and that’s the way I like to wear them. I find that for knits I normally don’t need a full bust adjustment, versus wovens where I need them nearly every time.
What was the construction process like? Did the instructions make sense to you?: The construction process was very straightforward. If you’ve ever sewn with knits before it’s all very basic sewing. There’s a neckband insertion and the shirt and sleeves are hemmed using a twin needle. The hardest part would be the neckband, but as long as you use enough wonder clips it’s goes in really easily.
How do you like the pattern’s fit? Do you think the design works well for your particular body shape?: I really like the pattern’s fit. I think the curved hemline is flattering for those of us who want butt and tummy coverage, but don’t necessarily want to wear straight hemmed tunics all the time. I really like the deep scooped neckline. It’s not too deep either, and I can wear my of my bras with it no problem.
Will you make the pattern again? If so, what fit or design changes will you make?: I’d love to try the v-neck version. I don’t think I need to adjust the fit at all, maybe a tiny swayback adjustment, but that’s it. It’d be fun to hack into a dress as well. This pattern is an awesome wardrobe builder and is very quick to make. I imagine I’ll be making quite a few more for the summer days ahead.
Do you have any advice on this pattern for other curvy sewers? Are there any resources (blog posts, fitting books, tutorials) that helped you sew this piece up?: Pick a fabric with four-way stretch and you can’t go wrong. I rarely find that I need a full bust adjustment when I use a good spandex/rayon knit.
Pattern Rating System:
Size Range (1-5): 2 Straight sized pattern, that goes maybe one size out of the “standard” size range.
Instructions (1-5): 4 I prefer diagrams over photos, but that’s my only issue with them.
Construction Process (1-5): 4 everything came together well, except a few things I mentioned above.
Final Fit (1-5): 5 Love it!
Overall Rating (1-5) + Explanation: 3.75 The fit is great, and the instructions give you all the information you need. Diagrams might be more helpful, but if you’re familiar with sewing knits at all- you probably won’t need them anyway. Biggest point deduction for the size range. Yes it’s more inclusive than many indie patterns, but it definitely could include more sizes, especially for these simpler designs
Great top! Thanks for sharing details. Perhaps check the shoulder seam placement? In your first photo, the shoulder seam is not resting on the top of your shoulder. It appears to be dropped down from the highest point of your shoulder. I know this is a key fit area for me, which is why I noticed it. Great style & fabric color!
I just made my first Mama Ava last week! I definitely agree that it is a great basic pattern. I made the V neckline version and found that to be very easy too! It was my first time sewing any v neckline and I didn’t have any troubles with it (but I did pin the heck out of it before I started sewing)!
Your top looks great, Paige! That blush color is fabulous on you!
Nice job, Paige! This top has such beautiful drape and color! Do you remember much about the fabric you used? It was clearly the right one!
Also welcome to CSC editorship! I’ve been enjoying your makes, tutorials, and reviews for awhile now and was frankly surprised the day I figured out that you weren’t an editor all this time! You’ve contributed such great content to this site, and I’m looking forward to what else you have up your sleeve! Welcome!
It’s a rayon blend knit, similar to Double brushed poly. Can’t wait to share more!