 Add ¼” clear elastic to the shoulder seams to reinforce these seams.

Flat seams:

One detail that I wasn’t careful in the muslin is making sure the shoulder seams and back turtleneck seams are flat. I found I had this shoulder seam twisted between the neck and arm and that detail felt uncomfortable. Even with this being a looser fitting top, I knew that for the final I wanted to be more meticulous to pin the shoulder seams flat before sewing the turtleneck and sleeves in place.

I also checked this detail on the turtleneck before I sewed it together (ensuring the seam was flat and wasn’t twisted).

I followed the suggestion in the instructions and serged the turtleneck band together (at a ¼” seam allowance) before applying it to the top. With the Fall turtleneck being taller, it definitely made applying it much easier.

Ironing:

I always remind myself when sewing knits to remember to iron the seams. It makes a huge difference with knits just like it does with ironing woven fabrics. I did not iron the shoulder seams as clear elastic melts when ironing.

Final thoughts:

I really love this top! I can definitely see this pattern as a wardrobe staple for me. I love the layering aspect that turtlenecks offer. I especially enjoy this aspect with layering them under handknit sweaters, cardigans, or vests. I find the turtleneck detail faster to apply to a knit top then a traditional thin neckband. That said, it would also be fun to omit the turtleneck detail in the future and draft a quick thinner neckband to apply.

The serger that I used for this project worked great with the lightweight fabric. One tip that I found as I serged was to gently place my hand on the top fabric to prevent it from bubbling as I sew. It helped to keep the upper and lower fabrics moving at the same speed.

I would really enjoy making this pattern again with a thicker jersey/ponte, with the fitted Rise pattern. I’d also love making the Rise version in a merino wool jersey. Let me know if you’ve made this pattern and which fabric you used!

Rachel (@oakbluedesigns)
www.oakbluedesigns.com

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