I’ve always been a fan of natural fabrics, but since having a baby, I’ve grown even more fond of Double Gauze Fabrics. It’s light, airy, soft and breathable – what dreamy qualities! Such qualities can’t stay a secret forever -- double gauze is gaining popularity in recent years, and more and more designers are bringing out their own collections of this beautiful fabric.

I was so excited to get my sticky fingers on this stunning Double Gauze by Rico Designs. I knew instantly what to make – a relaxed fit, boxy, cropped top is in order, and what better pattern to use than the Butterick B6182 by Lisette?

I had a head start making this top, as this is my second time using this pattern. I made the dress version in an eyelet linen in an off white colour when I was pregnant, thanks to its roomy fit. It worked well; in fact, my bump fitted in that dress almost all the way till full term. My husband did joke that it looked like a hospital gown, so it was a real shame that I was not wearing it when I went into labour.

I never got round to posting about that dress, but it has come in handy in helping me determine the length of the top this time. I wanted it to be cropped, but had read reviews that the top version comes up extra short. After a bit of measuring and pinning, I decided to add 2 inches to the cut lines for the top. For your reference, I’m only 5 foot 3, and I think the finished length is just right.

I made self fabric bias binding for the neckline, as none of the tapes that I have in my stash were right for this. Some clashed, and others were not narrow or soft enough. This was probably the trickiest part of this project, as the double layers were not always pulling through the bias tape maker together. If I were to make them again, I would probably cut the tape a little wider than usual, to help with this. It was perfectly manageable, though, with a little extra care.

One of my favourite features of this pattern is the interesting dart placement at the bodice front. I'd go as far as saying that it is unique! I love it even more that all the lines neatly line up together :D

... and here, at the sleeve bands. This was a little harder because I did French seams all around. French seams really are my preferred method of seam finishes for lightweight fabrics that fray easily, and double gauze definitely fits nicely on that list. Never done French seams before? Here’s my favourite tutorial on this great technique; https://grainlinestudio.com/blogs/sewing-tutorials/sewing-tutorial-french-all-your-seams/

You probably know by now my obsessions with garments that look great both inside and out! Must resist the urge to wear it inside out!

Finally, let me leave you with a close up picture of the fabric. It is even more stunning in real life – the leaves are a metallic silver. And look at the intricate double layers.

Thanks for reading. Until next time, Alice from Queen of Darts

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