I acquired the Great British Sewing Bee book “Fashion with Fabric” and I have to say that I love nearly everything (not sure I’d make an elephant costume though!). This three-hour slouchy cardigan is my second make, the first being pyjama bottoms.
The cardigan is made from a wool/modal blend that I bought as a remnant from Potter Textiles. It is so light and drapey, the perfect fabric for this cardigan.
You will note the title of the pattern: the three-hour slouchy cardigan. I have to tell you that it took me more than three hours just to cut it out! The fabric is lovely but a horror to sew and cut out. I could not get it to fold on the grain, so had to cut the pattern out piece by piece. Then sewing it up was a bit of a drama. It slid and slithered everywhere. There are two tucks on each shoulder and I do confess that mine are not well done. Unpicking was not an option either as the fabric went into holes the minute it saw the blade of the seam ripper.
Anyway, it’s done, I’ve worn it on a few occasions now, and I can’t wait to make the hacked version from woven fabrics. This will be the perfect trans-season item of clothing.
In a nutshell: Pattern is the three hour slouchy cardigan from Great British Sewing Bee book 3 “Fashion with Fabric”. The book is available everywhere online, so I haven’t provided a link.
Fabric is wool/modal from Potter Textiles. Trousers are Style Arc Elle, made so long ago that I can’t find if I’ve ever blogged them. I’m also wearing the first Bronte top I made. It’s the perfect weight for this weather.
A quick review of the pattern and book: The pattern would be extremely quick to make in a more disciplined knit. It has two pattern pieces and the only “fiddly” bit is the shoulder tucks, but they are hardly difficult. I coverstitched the border/hem, but the book recommends a twin needle. That’s it really.
The book itself is wonderful. There are lots of makes popping up in people’s blogs, and I have several more planned for the next couple of weeks. The patterns are easy to trace off and the instructions are very detailed. Highly recommended!
It looks great! I must make myself one too!! Just how awesome is the book, though?! I want to make everything (bar the elephant costume, ha ha).
Actually Sue, the photos are doing this cardigan justice – it looked very wonderful the day you wore it in.
I have the book and like the look of many of the patterns. I’ll now bump this cardi up the list. I don’t have much knit experience – how do you choose a more disciplined knit? What would you recommend for this? Thanks. Anne
This is a great design to start your knit experience with. I’d go for a jersey that isn’t too fine. It needs to drape, but a bit of body helps when you sew it. I’ll swing over to your blog and watch your progress 🙂
I just bought the book. Your cardi looks worth making for in-between seasons.
The book is so good, I’ll watch what you make with interest!
I don’t suppose we could do kilts at the same time?
Haha Maria, might save me making undies!
Oh my!!!
I agree with you: this book is inspiring and handy, totally worth the price! Your kimono looks nice and cosy although this soft knit seemed hard to work with. I love the way you style it with slim pants and a funky print top.
I’m so pleased to see this made up. I’ve got the book and have been contemplating making this with some velour knit fabric I got in a lucky dip bundle from Minera crafts. You’be inspired me to bump it up the ‘to sew’ list. It looks great on you.
Sounds and looks like a great cardigan. I’ve seen quite a bit from this book and so far it looks like it is a winner nn
I can really recommend it. I have more things in my sights…
Good Very nice..