I made a new top for summer from some leopard print rayon knit that I have had in my stash since before I retired. I bought it for an entirely a different purpose, but as is often the way, I got distracted and the fabric has been malingering ever since.
I think that one of the reasons I didn’t ever make this fabric up is the pattern matching, which scared me a bit. Those wide bands would look shocking if they were misaligned. As it was, it was easy peasy to match them up, I am happy to say.
The back of this pattern has a diagonal split with bands down either side. Because my fabric is so busy it is almost impossible to tell that this is happening until the opening at the bottom. The pattern is Kwik Sew 4175 and the photo here shows much more clearly what’s going on at the back.
and here is mine, clearly showing the back split as it got caught up whilst I was trying to get these photos. I should note that the back is actually open from the shoulder, but this is the extent of the gaping open, so no issues with flashing!
The pattern description states: Pullover tops have round neckline with a self-fabric neck band, bias tape armhole finish and overlapping backs with back bands. A: Sleeveless. B:Contrast cap sleeve, neck band and single back band. I did view B but without the contrasting bands and sleeves.
Can I say that I really like this pattern? I went down a size because I was using a knit, but forgot that I have managed to go down at least a dress size, so I feel as though this is a little big. I was also chatting to the owner of Knitwit (who sells these patterns) and she said that the pattern ran a little large anyway. I shall have to go down a couple of sizes next time. The neckline is a little wide and the armholes are quite deep, which is a tad annoying, but cool in this hot weather.
In case you are thinking that the fabric isn’t very jungly, I thought this too, until I read the selvedge, which clearly states “leopard”, so I felt justified in entering the top in Jungle January, which is such a fun thing to do.
Because I was a bit dubious about the fabric, I decided to add some props for these photos: A pith (or is that safari?) helmet and a fan which was given to me in Fiji.
I’m loving this pith helmet – it won’t be the last time you see it!
And a last one of me, in my garden, clearly on the lookout for Dr Livingstone. However, I feel as though I’m coming off a bit “hello sailor”! Ah well…
Rayon knit is from Spotlight, Pattern is Kwik Sew 4175, white trousers are self drafted, and the grey trousers are StyleArc Barb pants (never blogged that I can see). Next up, a colour blocked version of this top, and a woven version. I really like it!
I like this top, though I agree the armholes are quite low so I must try to remember that when I make it up, which I will. By the way you say the pattern is 7175, but it is 4175 as on th pattern itself. . Anyway thanks for the heads up on this – I will order it with my next batch an hope I look as good as you.
Oh, thanks for letting me know Christine – I’ve fixed it now! Glad you like the top.
Oh, thanks for letting me know Christine – I’ve fixed it now! Glad you like the top. I already have the fabric out for the next one.
I saw that pattern and wasn’t too excited – now that I saw yours, I will take another look……and those red shoes – gorgeous!!!!
Thank you so much, I note that the pattern is heavily reduced now on the Kwik Sew site! Thanks for liking my shoes – they re comfortable too.
Thanks for the tip – just bought it and a few other Kwik Sew Patterns I have been coveting! Does that make you an enabler?
Haha, probably!
How funny! I was puzzled all through post, wondering when the jungle print would appear. True this rayon knit might not look very jungly but it is gorgeous anyway, and with the props, your ensemble is perfect for the January Jungle challenge. Now I can understand why you love this pattern – it is totally you. Lovely!
I love that pattern–and the fabric is perfect for it! That fabric would have stayed in my stash awhile, too, before I figured out what to do with it, and you really nailed it!
This looks very pretty. Just right and flattering for you.
I was puzzled by the leopard tag too. You keep us guessing!
I was claiming it :). Thanks Norma!
Very pretty top Sue. You have done a great job matching the stripes. Love the props too…Definitely Jungle January worthy.
Thank you Jean, it’s not the last you’ll see of the props 🙂
This top looks lovely on you even though you feel it’s a little on the big side! Love the props – they certainly add to the Jungle January theme and your shoes are gorgeous!!
I do love your “Hello Sailor” top with its risqué back slit! It does look better with the pattern matching. I’m going through a bit of an adjustment with my top. Three fittings and I think I finally have it right. It’s those knit fabrics and those large patterns!
Thanks Linda. I’m on my second one now, and have gone down a size. I don’t think I’m going to like it as much though…
Oh. That’s too bad, will you be showing it to us – I’m looking forward to seeing it anyway!
Oh yes, it’s nearly done but it might be a few days until I get round to blogging it!
Love this top and love the print. Really falls beautifully over your body. Great pattern!
thanks Rachel, version two is under the sewing machine as I type!
What a nice print and great pattern matching. I think the top fits you well, I like that it is a little wider. I am excited to see his it fits when you make it a couple of sizes smaller.
Thank you Katharina, I’ve nearly finished number two and don’t like it as much at this point. I shall show the world soon!
Gorgeous top and your pattern matching is perfect.
Thank you Sharon!
I love it – but thanks for the ‘leopard’ explanation. I would have claimed it too 😉
The pith/safari helmet is wonderful. Use it as often as you can!
Thanks Kim, I plan to, although it’s much too big for me!
Nice one! I’m glad you cleared up the ‘leopard’ issue, I wasn’t seeing it either lol I too, love my pith helmet, what better thing to wear for summer steampunking?
I love steampunk! Everyone should own a pith helmet!
I last wore mine with breeches and a lobstertail bustle. Splendid!
I may have already commented about this cute top in the FB group….. but have to say it is one of my favorites! Love that split in the back. 🙂
I love the back split too, Lisa.