Previously I mentioned snagging several copies of Simplicity 3835. But despite my elation at finding a discontinued pattern, I was rather apprehensive about actually cutting it and trying to make something for myself. You see, in the past, every time I’ve ever tried to make an article of clothing for myself it came out way. too. BIG. No matter how much I measured before starting.

I knew I would make a muslin before I started cutting good fabric, but I didn’t want to be discouraged that the muslin would be completely off in size as well. So….. I decided to do some research. And from what I’ve read, Simplicity patterns tend to run big, so going down a size seems to work well for most people.

I ended up cutting out a 12, and this is the result. The pattern itself is super simple (except for the casing around the neck, because, really, trying to fold and iron curves like that is a major pain in the ass), it doesn’t use yards and yards of fabric, and comes together really quickly. I also don’t know if it’s me being more experienced, or me having the new machine, but this time all the hems came out straight with no wrinkling or gapping, and all the seams matched up perfectly. I’m pretty sure it’s the new machine… It actually sews in straight lines without me having to wrestle the fabric.

Overall, I really like the shirt. Though, it sometimes feels as if I have it on backward because I think the neck in back dips a little lower than in front. It’s also hard to get off. I can totally see where a zipper in back or a button or something would be super helpful. Or even just making the whole thing in a stretchier fabric. I’ve considered trying making it with fabric cut on the bias (lots of waste), or out of an old button down shirt so that the front unbuttons. What do you think?

Next up is going to be either the dress or mini-dress (tunic) from the same pattern using a gorgeous echino fabric in birdsong blue. Thankfully those both have zips up the back, so will be easier to wriggle into and out of.

Comments

5 Responses to “Simplicity 3835 – Take 1”

  1. Linda on February 18th, 2012 7:08 am

    Do you have the pattern Simplicity 3835 that I could buy?
    Thank you.

  2. Dolores McCune on February 26th, 2012 9:38 pm

    Me too? Any extra you could sell?

  3. Brandie on March 23rd, 2012 1:29 pm

    Me too! I love this pattern, but can’t find it anywhere!

  4. flowerpress on April 14th, 2012 8:22 am

    I like your version :-0
    I’m after that pattern too if anyone has a spare. Happy to pay a good price.

  5. flowerpress on April 14th, 2012 8:37 am

    I like your version :-)
    I’m after that pattern too if anyone has a spare. Happy to pay a good price.

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