When Pattern Scout released it’s first garment pattern a few months ago, there were a bunch of cute versions popping up on Instagram. I was eager to give the Fern Top a try.
Pattern Name and Description: Fern Top – Fern is a boxy top pattern for light- to mid-weight woven fabrics. It features dolman-style short sleeves, a sectioned bodice, and a skirt bottom. Separate pattern pieces are provided for A/B, C and D cups.
The Fern Top pattern is available in bust sizes 31”-54” or 56” for a D cup. (That’s a bust range of 78 cm – 137 cm or 142 cm for a D cup.) The hip range is from 35” – 58” (89 cm – 147 cm.)
What are your measurements? What is your body shape?
- Full bust 44” (112 cm)
- Waist 40” (102 cm)
- High hip: 45” (114 cm)
- Bra size: 38G
- Height: 5’3” (160 cm)
My body is an hourglass from the front, but an apple from the side.
What size did you make? I made the size 16 with the D cup.
What adjustments did you make and how long did the take?
I graded both versions out at the waist to size 20, but then brought the lighter blue back slightly to an 18 at the waist. This was an easy adjustment, but it took a little thinking to decide where to add the width. I decided adding mostly to the side seam preserves the bust shaping and assures that the pleats line up with the front and back seams. In retrospect, there is a lot of wearing ease at the waist, so I probably didn’t need to grade out much at all.
I lengthened the top by an inch and a half so the waist seam would hit closer to my narrowest point. I shortened the bust darts slightly, but I found the height was just right for me.
I also lowered the neckline to a shape I prefer. There is an expansion pack available with a couple alternative neck shapes, but I’m comfortable drafting my own.
What fabric did you use?
The darker one is a cotton-linen blend from Joanns Fabric. (Careful readers will remember it from my Seamwork Natalie. Yeah, I bought yards and yards.) The lighter blue is a cotton double gauze I bought at a local shop.
What was the construction like? Did the instructions make sense to you?
Everything went together perfectly. The notches all lined up, and it was a quick sew.
July was so hot here in New York that most of my sewing had to happen in 30 minute bursts when I first woke up. Attic sewing spaces have that disadvantage. Luckily this has simple construction, so I could pick up where I left off each day.
How do you like the pattern’s fit? Do you think the design works well for your particular body shape?
I think the fit is comfortable and looks great. As I mentioned, I graded out more than necessary. The subtle shaping keeps the top from being a straight box. I love a boxy top, but the Fern Top gives me different options.
I like both the peplum and straight versions, but I didn’t try the cuffed sleeves since I prefer shorter sleeves in hot weather.
Will you make the pattern again? If so, what fit or design changes will you make?
I have made two, but I think I could have a wardrobe full of Fern tops. Several sewists have made dress-length versions and played with color blocking or stripe placement.
Size Range (1-5): 5 -Based on our size range guidelines.
Instructions (1-5): 5 -Very clear with helpful diagrams.
Construction Process (1-5): Smooth. Perfect for a beginner looking to learn new skills.
Final Fit (1-5): 5 – I did make some tweaks, but they were easy.
Overall Rating (1-5) + Explanation: 5- I can see making several more tops with this pattern.
Great job. I could see this as a dress. Love the colors, and both are very flattering on you. Lots of interesting style lines on this one. I love your double gauze.
I meant to make one color blocked, but changed my mind about the color combination. That’s definitely in my future.
You look terrific in those tops! Thanks for the thorough review. I think this top would be a good one for me, and I’m encouraged to try it by your post.
It is an easy pattern with a lot of possibilities. I hope you like it too.