Free Tee Review: Green Tee by Greenstyle Creations

A few weeks ago when we had a bit of a heatwave I made a few more free tees but I ended up wearing them and not taking any pictures. Well, now they have been through the wash and are back in the “to photograph” pile. So hopefully I can play catch up and get the reviews out to you soon. Let’s start with the Gree Tee from Greenstyle creations!

To recap, I am hoping to get through as many of the free tee patterns as possible (you can find the full list here) and let you know what I think of them. For each tee pattern, I review I will look at 4 different aspects of the pattern: the options available (including different looks and size ranges), how easy it is to get hold of the pattern, printing and assembling the pdf, and the instructions/construction. For each of these four categories, I will give the pattern a score out of ten. I will also give a score out of ten for my version of the pattern (including thoughts on the fit and overall impressions). So in total, each tee will get a score out of 50 making it really easy to compare these patterns.

Greenstyle Creations are a pattern company I have never tried before but they have been on my radar for a while as I often like to have a browse through and swoon over their activewear designs but as my list of things to make is already pretty long I have avoided buying any new patterns for a while. The free Green Tee pattern is however, a great way to try out this new-to-me designer without having to fork out for a new pattern. The Green Tee is a basic semi-fitted tee but there are lots of options allowing you to mix it up.

Options available 8/10

The Green Tee comes in 12 sizes labelled B-M. These cover bust measurements from 30-61″ which is one of the biggest size ranges I have seen so far. There are also a few different options to chose from; scoop or v neck as well as long or short sleeves.

Getting hold of the pattern 3/10

On the web page for this tee it comes up as $10 but if you join the Greenstyle creations facebook group there is a code to get it for free!
You need to ask to join the group and there are a couple of questions to answer to check you are legit! You then need to wait for your request to be approved. I made the request at 11 am on a Saturday morning (UK) and it took about an hour but there is no indication anywhere for typical times for this approval.
Once you have the code just add the Green Tee to your cart and go to the checkout. There you need to log in or create an account. Once you enter the code in the discount box the price of the pattern will come down to $0.00
You still need to enter some details but no payment info is required – you have to click on the “continue to payment” button, and then the “pay now” which can be a bit confusing. You will then get a link to download the files

 

Printing and assembling the pdf 4/10

The no-trim pages on this pattern certainly save a bit of time when assembling the pdf pattern – however, I found sticking them together to be a lot less accurate than some others I’ve tried as the printer always leaves a slight gap in the printing at the edge of the page and so getting the pattern lines to meet neatly is a bit trickier and so probably actually took me longer in the end as I had to spend more time lining the pages up!

The printed pages for this one do have page numbers on them but no other indication of which pages join to each other so you need to keep referring to the lay plan for that. Having said that, once I got towards the end of the pattern the page numbers on mine didn’t actually match up with the lay plan so I found I had to double-check the pattern pieces and how they looked like they should fit together!!

Instructions and construction 9/10

The instructions on this pattern are nice and clear and concise. I am a big fan of technical drawings in pattern instructions as it makes it very clear to see which seams get attached where. The top came together really easily and there were no surprises here.

Final Impressions 9/10

I went for the short-sleeved round neck option. I sewed it up in some DBP I had leftover from making a pair of leggings earlier in the year. I originally bought this fabric because it was on sale and I love the feeling of brushed fabrics although camo isn’t really my style. So to mix it up a bit I actually used the wrong side of the fabric as the outside of this tee to give it a much more muted colour scheme. To match with the sporty feel of the Greenstyle creations vibe I reverse cover stitched the hems and neckline. I made a size E at the bust and blended to an F at the waist and hip with no other adjustments. The fit is maybe a little looser than I had expected from some of the photos on the website but the general shape fits me well.

Total score 33/50

Thanks for reading this review of the Green Tee. If you want to know how this compares to some of the other free tee patterns out there be sure to check out my other reviews and the full list of free tee patterns available that I hope to conquer over the next few months!

Have you sewn up this pattern? What did you think of it?

p.s. to keep up with my makes as part of this #HSewsFreeTees project you can follow along on Instagram

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Free Tee Review: Basic InstincT by SecondoPiano

I’m getting a bit behind myself with my free tee review blog posts, over the last few weeks I have sewn up a few different free tee patterns but finding the time to photograph them and write the review is proving tricky so you’ve got a few more on their way but for now, here is one I have photographed…The Basic InstincT by SecondoPiano

To recap, I am hoping to get through as many of the free tee patterns as possible (you can find the full list here) and let you know what I think of them. For each tee pattern, I review I will look at 4 different aspects of the pattern: the options available (including different looks and size ranges), how easy it is to get hold of the pattern, printing and assembling the pdf, and the instructions/construction. For each of these four categories, I will give the pattern a score out of ten. I will also give a score out of ten for my version of the pattern (including thoughts on the fit and overall impressions). So in total, each tee will get a score out of 50 making it really easy to compare these patterns.

Basic InstincT is a t-shirt with a relaxed cut and contemporary silhouette with a crew neckline.

 

Options available 1/10

The Basic InstincT comes in 5 sizes XS-XL covering bust measurements of 32-42.5 inches. The design is singular, in that there are no alternative options for different length, sleeves, or necklines. If you want a good simple tee then this might be it but don’t expect anything fancy from this pattern

Getting hold of the pattern 9/10

To get the t-shirt pattern you need to first subscribe to the email list for the SecondoPiano blog. You can find the sign-up box is here. I received an email back straight away asking me to confirm my subscription by clicking the link in the email. A few minutes later I received a second email with a link to download the pattern. This immediately downloads a zip file with all the contents you need to get going. So compared to some other patterns it’s a pretty simple and speedy process. The zip file contains separate instructions and pattern in both English and Italien.

 

Printing and assembling the pdf 2/10

As with all pdf patterns, this one has a test square that you should measure to check that you are printing at the correct scale. Unfortunately, this one is marked as 10x10cm and 4x4in print test – it can’t be both(!) as 10cm is about 3.9 inches. In my case, it measured 10cm exactly and somewhere around 3.9 inches so I had to assume it was correct and go ahead with printing the rest of the pattern. As this pattern also comes in Italian I am assuming that the cm is the correct measurement anyway as this is more common in European patterns but it is something to watch out for if you usually only measure in inches!!

The line to trim the sheet down when sticking all the sheets together was very faint and hard to see making it difficult to piece together the pdf pages. Also, the page numbers are marked on each sheet but there is no way to know without checking the lay-plan which pages should join together in which order.

However, compared to some other patterns the cutting lines were much thinner (but also dark enough to see) which makes for much more accurate sizing – when the lines are thick there can be a few mm difference in garment size whether you cut on the inside or outside of the line!

I have to admit a lot of the markings on this pattern were unfamiliar to me and I found myself having to look a lot at the key explaining the markings. Now, this is most likely my problem (not the fault of the designer) However, having made a lot of things from a lot of different designers it did surprise me somewhat – even down to the fact that some of the markings I thought I recognized meant something different here (such as a wavy line being used to indicate stretch direction when to me it initially sprung to mind gathering). I was also somewhat thrown by the stitching lines being marked directly on the pattern (as well as cut lines) – I thought these were another set of cut lines at first and nearly cut out the whole thing in completely the wrong size :(

Instructions and construction 2/10

I must have attempted to read the instructions for this pattern 5 times before I started making the garment and I still could not make head nor tail of them! The main set of instructions is a very short bullet-pointed list with the key steps, these are fine if you have made a number of t-shirts before and no what you are doing but they are rather minimal if you are a beginner. However, these instructions are hidden among pages of technical line drawings which I found very confusing and did not seem to match with any of my previous experience of t-shirt construction.

There is also a lengthy section on stripe matching. This pattern has quite a lot of extra markings on t which will supposedly help with this task. For me, they were just a lot of additional markings that added to the confusion of all the strange markings I was already unfamiliar with. I was also very confused by the instructions for stripe matching which would have you increase the depth of the shoulder (using a slash and spread method) according to the width of your stripes.  I think perhaps this method would allow you to get the perfect stripe-matched garment, so long as you don’t mind altering the fit of your t-shirt!

Luckily for me, I have made plenty of t-shirts by now so I opted to abandon the instructions and plough ahead on my own. Despite this haphazard approach, the t-shirt came together really well. Partly, due to the number of notches on this pattern which are plentiful! The only place I struggled was with the neckline because there were oh so many notches I think I must have marked the wrong ones and so couldn’t get them to line up at all so I just quartered it and inserted as normal!

Final Impressions 8/10

Despite the difficulties with the instructions on this one I really like the fit and style. It also came together really quickly, helped by there being lots of notches on the pattern which can sometimes be lacking in other t-shirt patterns.

I decided to not try a stripy fabric for this one, despite there being a large section of instructions to help with stripe matching mostly because I was already overwhelmed by the complicated instructions and the unfamiliar markings on the pattern so I didn’t want to add something else to the mix. I did go with a contrast neckband though to add a little something extra to this otherwise very simple design.

My measurements put me exactly half-way between a small and medium across bust, waist, and hips which is unusual for me but a nice surprise. Based on the finished measurements I decided to go for the small as it is a relaxed fit and I think I made the right choice, perhaps a little more space in the bust would be nice but it’s certainly not a bad fit.

Total score 34/50

Thanks for reading this review of the BasicInstincT. If you want to know how this compares to some of the other free tee patterns out there be sure to check out my other reviews and the full list of free tee patterns available that I hope to conquer over the next few months!

Have you sewn up this pattern? What did you think of it?

p.s. to keep up with my makes as part of this #HSewsFreeTees project you can follow along on Instagram

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Free Tee Review: The Mandy Boat Tee by Tessuti

phew! What a rollercoaster the last few weeks have been! SInce my last blog post (the review of the laundry day tee) I started feeling a lot better, went back into work for an hour or so a day as I built up my strength, managed nearly 2 weeks and then got sent home because of lockdown! I have now been working from home for nearly 3 months and I have to admit it feels like the new normal. Having been confined to my house due to illness for nearly 6 months prior to lockdown I am jsut grateful to have my health back and at least now that everyone is in the same boat I feel  far less isolated than before. For the first few weeks, whilst all of this was new I decided to get stuk into a meaty project and sewed up a pair of Dawn jeans but after that I quickly realised that what I needed int he lockdown was comfy clothes. So here we are, back on the t-shirts. The next free t-shirt pattern I have been longing to make up is the Mandy Boat Tee by Tessuti. This one is a bit of a cult classic in the sewing community – rarely a week goes by when one doesnt pop up on my instagram feed and I can see why. Teh shape of the tee is timeless and works looks great ina  range of different prints as well as plains. So Id ecided now was the time to get to making my own!

To recap, I am hoping to get through as many of the free tee patterns as possible (you can find the full list here) and let you know what I think of them. For each tee pattern, I review I will look at 4 different aspects of the pattern: the options available (including different looks and size ranges), how easy it is to get hold of the pattern, printing and assembling the pdf, and the instructions/construction. For each of these four categories, I will give the pattern a score out of ten. I will also give a score out of ten for my version of the pattern (including thoughts on the fit and overall impressions). So in total, each tee will get a score out of 50 making it really easy to compare these patterns.

The Mandy Boat Tee is a is boxy top with drop shoulders, which has a boat neckline. I’ve long been an admirer of Tessuti patterns but have never made anything of theirs so this free pattern provides the perfect chance to try out a new designer with none of the risks of splurging on a pattern only to be disappointed.

Options available 2/10

The size range on the Mandy boat tee is one of its biggest downfalls. It comes in just 4 sizes covering a bust size range of just 31 – 45 inches. THe boxy style does make up for the coarse sizes a little as there si no need for a fitted look anywhere and so a wide range of sizes are captured in each bracket. I terms of options, you get a choice of sleeve length: 3/4 or full.

Getting hold of the pattern 10/10

This is one of the easiest free patterns to get your hands on. The pdf version of this pattern is free on the website. Just add it to your shopping bag and go to checkout. You need to fill in some details but no payment information is required as the pattern is free. Confusingly, you do need to click “pay now” to place the order but as soon as you do a link will appear that you can click to get the downloads.

Printing and assembling the pdf 9/10

For the print test square on this one, it is a nice big 10cmx10cm box so plenty to room to check if your printer is even slightly out! My test box measured fine but it was on the very outside of the lines (which are quite thick), putting the pattern together was nice and straightforward – the edges of each page are marked with letters (rows) and numbers (columns) so it is really quick to see which page fits where. The pages did need trimming but the lines were very clear and everything lined up nicely when it came to sticking it all together.

Instructions and construction 5/10

Unfortunately for me all the measurements are only in cm and so it took me a while to work out which size I wanted as I know my measurements in inches off the top of my head but not in cm. Although, it did make me measure myself again rather than convert from imperial to metric so maybe there is something positive in that! I found the instructions reasonably clear but having made a lot of t-shirts I am fairly happy with the order of constructions and most of the techniques. I think for a new sewer or someone new to this type of garment these instructions would be a bit sparse. Also, the instructions in this pattern do assume you have an overlocker – of course there are ways to work around this if you don’t, but they are not explained in the pattern.

The only deviation I made from the pattern was to use my coverstitch instead of a twin needle for the neckline and hems. This did mean that there was a bit of switching over to do between coverstitch and overlocker as the pattern has you sew the neckline first before constructing the garment and then hem at the end. This was a bit faffy but in my opinion worth it – the finish is really neat.

Final Impressions 8/10

I am pretty pleased with this one. I really like the neckline – sometimes boat necks can sit a bit too wide on me and you get a flash of my bra straps now and again but this one seems to be just perfect! I think perhaps it has something to do with the little dart at the shoulder seam that you add right at the end, giving it a tiny bit more shaping.

Based on my measurements I needed to cut a size 2 but I was right at the bottom end of that size range. Seeing as there are only four sizes they are pretty big size ranges and I definitely think I could have got away with the smaller size, but it doesn’t look ridiculously oversized or anything – so I guess if you are unsure just go with your measurements but if you are not after a super oversized fell I wouldn’t be afraid to size down.

I chose the 3/4 sleeve option and in truth, it is more like bracelet length on me so I probably could have shortened the sleeves a bit, although I’m not mad at it. I think it would have been a different story had I gone with the full-length sleeves as I’m certain they would have been way too long. However, as the pattern does not contain any finished measurements its all guesswork unless you want to get the ruler out and start measuring the pattern pieces – but for a free pattern I really didn’t think it was worth it!

Total score 34/50

Thanks for reading this review of the Mandy Boat tee. If you want to know how this compares to some of the other free tee patterns out there be sure to check out my other reviews and the full list of free tee patterns available that I hope to conquer over the next few months!

Have you sewn up the Mandy Boat tee? What did you think of it?

p.s. to keep up with my makes as part of this #HSewsFreeTees project you can follow along on Instagram

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Free Tee Review: The Laundry Day Tee by Love Notions

Who’s ready for another free tee review? I know its been a while since the last one but my sew-jo came back and i’d been tucking in to some meatier sewing projects after a long break due to illness. However, now we are all in lockdown and working from home is the new normal I have realised that comfy clothes are going to be my go-to wardrobe for the foreseeable future and lets face it in times like this we all need to find comfort where we can – so I whipped up a new free tee and now I can let you all know what I thought!

To recap, I am hoping to get through as many of the free tee patterns as possible (you can find the full list here) and let you know what I think of them. For each tee pattern, I review I will look at 4 different aspects of the pattern: the options available (including different looks and size ranges), how easy it is to get hold of the pattern, printing and assembling the pdf, and the instructions/construction. For each of these four categories, I will give the pattern a score out of ten. I will also give a score out of ten for my version of the pattern (including thoughts on the fit and overall impressions). So in total, each tee will get a score out of 50 making it really easy to compare these patterns.

The Laundry Day tee is semi-fitted at the bust with a flare at the bottom and has set-in sleeves. Love Notions are another new-to-me pattern company so I love that they have a free pattern available to try them out!

Options available 10/10

The Laundry Day Tee (updated version from January 2020) comes with three neckline options- scoop, v-neck & cowl as well as five sleeve lengths- tank, short, elbow, 3/4 and long. You also get to choose from a regular tee shirt length, tunic length & dress. The tunic and dress lengths have an optional high/low hem. This means there is a whopping 75 different combinations possible from this one pattern! There are also 9 different sizes available (overbust size 31″-55″) all available both with and without a full bust adjustment included (for those whose full bust is 4″ or more bigger thant their overbust).

Getting hold of the pattern 5/10

You need to add the laundry day tee to your shopping cart. first. You then need to join the Love Notions Facebook group (they are really quick to approve new members, although you may need to wait a little while). In the announcements section of the Facebook group you can find a discount code. Just copy that code into the coupon code box at checkout. You then need to fill in your billing address but no need to add any payment information. You can then choose to download either the print at home file or the copy shop print file.

Printing and assembling the pdf 3/10

There is a set of instructions listing only the pages you need to print for each version. It is good to stick to this as the pattern comes with two different sets of sizing (one standard and one with an FBA included). So if you print the whole lot you will get both of these for all sizes available as well as all the instructions and that’s a lot of paper!

The pages are no trim which saves a lot of time you just line the edge of one page up with a line on the next and stick it down. You do need to be careful that there are two different lines you could line up with – a solid line if you have printed on letter paper or a dashed line if you print on A4 paper (like me!). The only thing that i found a little confusing when sticking together this pdf is that the pages are numbered rather than given coordinates (eg B3 indicating the second column third row). This means you do need to pay attention to where the pages go when sticking them together by following the plan in the instructions rather than just jumping straight in.

Note: After assembling the pattern I realised something had gone wrong with the vertical alignment. All of the pages in each row were aligned nicely but there was a jump in between each row. I trimmed the bottom off each page and it lined up nicely so be warned – i don’t think this pattern truly is a “no trim” pattern.

Instructions and construction 9/10

The instructions in this pattern are nice and clear with line drawings to guide you. The drawings make it super clear which is the right/wrong side of the fabric and where exactly stitching lines should go. There is also some brief instructions for lengthening and shortening as well as a link to a nursing hack.

Sometimes you just have to twirl!

Final Impressions 10/10

This isn’t my usual style of t-shirt – I usually go for something much lass flared and tend to avoid the tunic length but I have already worn this so much since I made it. It is the perfect throw-on garment for during this lockdown! I made the tunic length with a scoop neck and 3/4 sleeves and tend to just throw it on over a pair of leggings and it is the most comfy outfit without looking too much like pyjamas. The fabric is a cotton jersey but it is very thin so I’m not sure how much I will wear it out of the house but for now that is not a problem!! I really love the FBA included in the pattern and it actually fits me really well, it is a little loose but it is in keeping with the style.

Total score 37/50

Thanks for reading this review of the Laundry day tee. If you want to know how this compares to some of the other free tee patterns out there be sure to check out my other reviews and the full list of free tee patterns available that I hope to conquer over the next few months!

Have you sewn up the Laundry Day tee? What did you think of it?

p.s. to keep up with my makes as part of this #HSewsFreeTees project you can follow along on Instagram

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Free Tee Review: The Reagan Raglan by Bella Sunshine Designs

Let’s get stuck in with another free tee review? I actually finished this tee a while back as I batch sewed it together with my Hemlock but somehow completely forgot to take photos or write a review…oh well, better late than never!!

To recap, I am hoping to get through as many of the free tee patterns as possible and let you know what I think of them. For each tee pattern, I review I will look at 4 different aspects of the pattern: the options available (including different looks and size ranges), how easy it is to get hold of the pattern, printing and assembling the pdf, and the instructions/construction. For each of these four categories, I will give the pattern a score out of ten. I will also give a score out of ten for my version of the pattern (including thoughts on the fit and overall impressions). So in total, each tee will get a score out of 50 making it really easy to compare these patterns.

 

The Reagan raglan is a semi-fitted raglan tee and it was honestly never on my radar before I started compiling my list of free tees but its certainly one to watch out for!

Options available 10/10

There are 16 separate sizes available (overbust 30″- 59.75″) all with and without a bust adjustment already done for you (for full bust more than 3″ bigger than overbust) making it a whopping 32 different sizes available! Not only that there are also lots of styling options available too. You can choose from a v or scoop neck, and long or short sleeves. there is also the option to make it in top, tunic or dress length. In total that gives 12 different combinations and a really good size range.

Getting hold of the pattern 4/10

First of all, you need to join the Bella Sunshine Designs PDF Patterns Facebook group (they were really quick to approve me as a new member, although you may need to wait a little while). In the announcements section of the Facebook group, you can find a link to the Reagan Raglan. This will take you to a different version of the website where this pattern is listed as free. You can then add it to your cart and download the pattern.

Printing and assembling the pdf 5/10

This pattern does need trimming in order to assemble it. I took off the right and bottom edge of each page. You can then just line it up and stick it together. The only thing that I found a little confusing when sticking together this pdf is that the pages are numbered rather than given coordinates (eg B3 indicating the second column third row). This means you do need to pay attention to where the pages go when sticking them together by following the plan in the instructions rather than just jumping straight in. (I accidentally ended up with one page in completely the wrong place and had to peel the sellotape off and try again!)
For cutting out/tracing each size is labelled on the lines making it easy to doublecheck you are following the right line. At some parts where there are a lot of lines close together, this can make it a little tricky to see what’s going on though.

Instructions and construction 9/10

There are lots of helpful bits and pieces included in this pattern like how to grade between sizes or adjust for length as well as some tips for sewing with knit fabric. The instructions are nice and clear with line drawings to show each step of the construction making it really easy to see which is the right or wrong side of the fabric and exactly where stitch lines should go. This was actually my first time sewing a knit v-neckband and it went so smoothly because the instructions were so clear. I had convinced myself I would have to rip it out at least twice and was quite scared at first but I actually had no troubles at all!

Final Impressions 10/10

For this t-shirt, I opted for the t-shirt length, short sleeves and v-neck as I actually don’t have any v neck tees so it was a nice change and a challenge to try my first v neckband. I made it up in a cream and navy stripy jersey from Pound fabrics. The neckband and sleeves are a navy jersey from Minerva (leftover from my Joni dress. I absolutely love this t-shirt. I have struggled to ever find a raglan design I like, let alone love. The included FBA in this pattern worked like a dream and it fits really nicely. I don’t usually go for v-necks but I do actually like it on this design, it certainly feels in keeping with the design. Overall I am really pleased with this one – even the stripe matching is spot on!!

Total score 38/50

 

Thanks for reading this review of the Reagan Raglan. If you want to know how this compares to some of the other free tee patterns out there be sure to check out my other reviews and the full list of free tee patterns available that I hope to conquer over the next few months!

Have you sewn up the Reagan Raglan? What did you think of it?

p.s. to keep up with my makes as part of this #HSewsFreeTees project you can follow along on Instagram

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Free Tee Review: The Hemlock Tee by Grainline Studio

Are you ready for another free tee review? This time I decided to tackle an indie sewing heavyweight – the Hemlock tee by Grainline studio but can it live up to the hype?

To recap, I am hoping to get through as many of the free tee patterns as possible and let you know what I think of them. For each tee pattern, I review I will look at 4 different aspects of the pattern: the options available (including different looks and size ranges), how easy it is to get hold of the pattern, printing and assembling the pdf, and the instructions/construction. For each of these four categories, I will give the pattern a score out of ten. I will also give a score out of ten for my version of the pattern (including thoughts on the fit and overall impressions). So in total, each tee will get a score out of 50 making it really easy to compare these patterns.

Hemlock is a drop shoulder boxy tee. When I first saw this pattern a few years ago I believe it was one size only and that kind of put me off but since then it has been revamped to include a bigger size range and some lovely modelled pictures.

Options available 7/10

The Hemlock can be made in three different body lengths as well as three different sleeve lengths. Giving a total of 9 possible combinations. There are two different downloads for this pattern one in sizes 0-18 and one for sizes 14-30. I like that there is a big size range and an overlap in the size range of the two files as there is nothing worse than if you are between sizes and want to grade but they are in separate files. Size 0-18 (32-44 inch bust) is drafted for a B cup whilst 14-30 (40-56 inch bust) is drafted for a D cup. So you may need to make different adjustments depending on which size you download.

 

Getting hold of the pattern 6/10

To get your hands on this one you need to sign up for the Grainline studio newsletter. It will be sent to you in a welcome email once you’ve confirmed your subscription via a link sent to your inbox after you sign up. They say they will send monthly updates and new pattern alerts to you but there is nothing to stop you unsubscribing after you download the pattern.

 

 

Printing and assembling the pdf 7/10

There is a separate print file for each size range as well as the instructions in a different file. This makes printing really simple as you just choose the appropriate file for your size range and print the whole thing. In another separate file, there are instructions for printing and assembling so it really does help you every step of the way. You do need to trim the pages but the lines are very clear for lining them up again. The only thing that I found a little confusing when sticking together this pdf is that the pages are numbered rather than given coordinates (eg B3 indicating the second column third row). This means you do need to pay attention to where the pages go when sticking them together by following the plan in the instructions rather than just jumping straight in. When cutting out/tracing your size the sizes are marked as well as the lines being distinct styles.

I had to use my phone as the camera remote for these pictures so that’s why I’m holding it – I promise I’m not checking Instagram (ok maybe I am)!

Instructions and construction 7/10

The instructions are very clear with line-drawn illustrations making it easy to see exactly where stitch lines are placed and how the garment is constructed. There are also some general instructions for sewing with knits which could be useful if you are a little unfamiliar with these fabric types. Unlike some other patterns, there is no information on grading or how to get a good fit with this pattern.

Final Impressions 8/10

I made the top length version with full-length sleeves in size 8. I actually measured a size 12 in the bust and a 6 in the overbust (eek thats a sbig difference!) but due to the boxy style and the loose fit of the finished measurements, I went for something in the middle erring on the smaller side as I don’t often like a very loose fit. I really like the style of this one – the boxy fit is just what I like and I’m so glad I didn’t go for a bigger size. The length is also really good for me. However, the sleeves are super long. I don’t know why I didn’t make 3/4 sleeves as this is my preferred sleeve length but a simple rolled-up cuff fixes that one and I think it adds a nice bit of styling. I made it in a cream and navy jersey from pound fabrics. The wrong side of this fabric had a nice slub texture which I really like so this is actually wrong side out for a more casual look.

Total score 35/50

 

Thanks for reading this review of the Hemlock Tee. If you want to know how this compares to some of the other free tee patterns out there be sure to check out my other reviews and the full list of free tee patterns available that I hope to conquer over the next few months!

Have you sewn up the HemlockTee? What did you think of it?

p.s. to keep up with my makes as part of this #HSewsFreeTees project you can follow along on Instagram

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Free Tee Review: The Paris Tee by Rebecca Page

A combination of my new overlocker and batch sewing means these free tee patterns are flying off the machine! (I promise this is the last one in this grey jersey though, i will mix up the fabrics soon i promise!) This time around I’m looking at a free tee pattern from Rebecca Page but if you missed the round-up or any of my other reviews, you can find them all here.

To recap, I am hoping to get through as many of the free tee patterns as possible and let you know what I think of them. For each tee pattern, I review I will look at 4 different aspects of the pattern: the options available (including different looks and size ranges), how easy it is to get hold of the pattern, printing and assembling the pdf, and the instructions/construction. For each of these four categories, I will give the pattern a score out of ten. I will also give a score out of ten for my version of the pattern (including thoughts on the fit and overall impressions). So in total, each tee will get a score out of 50 making it really easy to compare these patterns.

In this post, I will be taking a closer look at the Paris Tee. This pattern is by Rebecca Page, another designer that I have not tried before (and spoiler alert probably wont be trying again).

The Paris pattern by Rebecca Page includes both a top and a skirt (I will only be reviewing the top here). The tee is semi-fitted with a bound neckline.

Options available 7/10

The Paris set comes in 10 sizes (bust measurement 30-54″) and there are a number of options available – scoop or boat neck, crop or full-length hem, and short, three quarter, or full-length sleeves. This means there are a total of 12 different combinations for this top pattern (Not including the various skirt options you also get with it!). There are also some add-ons available further increasing the number of options you can make.

Getting hold of the pattern 2/10

As far as getting you hands on this pattern goes, it is one of the trickiest. First you must go to the Rebecca Page website add the pattern to your cart. It will appear in your cart at full price. You then need to join the Rebecca Page Sewing Facebook group. In the announcements section of the Facebook group, you will find a number of discount codes to get various Rebecca Page patterns for free. Just find the one you need and add it in the coupon code box. You will need to fill in your billing address but no need to fill in any payment information as the order is free. Once you have done all of this you click “pay now” and then the link to download the pattern will be emailed to you.

Printing and assembling the pdf 1/10

When I first started printing this pattern i was pleased to find a handy guide included in the pattern for which pages you should print for the top and or skirt. I printed only those for the top – perfect for saving paper! I would normally advise that you should be careful to follow this, as if you print the whole file not only will you get the top and the skirt in ALL the sizes but you will also print the instructions too! HOWEVER, I realised only after sticking it all together that I was missing the bodice front pattern piece. The pages are there in the file but they are not included in the list of pages numbers you need to print so I had to go through the other pages and figure out which extras I needed to print!!

I must note that it can be a bit confusing if you only print the top as you get some pages with parts of the skirt pattern. Obviously there is no other page to stick them too and they are not large enough pieces to see the label that tells you they are for the skirt.

The instructions say this is a no-trim pattern but I found that you do need to trim the pages on this one in order to best line them up. I took off the bottom and right-hand edge of each sheet. You can then line them up and stick together.

When it comes to cutting out /tracing the pattern pieces I found it tricky to see which line I was following, especially as the key seemed to be at a different scale to the pattern pieces (the dashes are much longer in the key than on the pattern). This might have been less of a problem if you print in colour but I usually just print in black and white so rely on the divergent line styles.

Instructions and construction 8/10

There are detailed instructions included with this pattern as well as a quick-glance “cheat sheet” for those who are familiar with the construction and just want a quick reminder of the order of construction. The instructions are illustrated with photographs so you can see what to do at each step. However, the fabric used in these is the same colour on both the right and wrong side making it difficult to see at a glance which way the fabric is placed.

I found there are lots of little things that just prevent this top from being an enjoyable make. For example, there is no shaping at the bottom of the sleeves so when you turn them up to hem the inside is slightly smaller than the outside. Also, the sleeve pattern piece has a different shape front and back, which is labelled on the pattern but there are no notches so it is up to you to mark your fabric.

I found the instructions to be a little unclear for the step where you add the neck binding so I just did it as normal but if this is a new technique to you it could be a little tricky.

Final Impressions 4/10

I cut out the medium (I was at the small end of the chest measurement range (36 inches) and the large end of the waist measurement range (30 inches) but both just fit in the same size so no need for me to grade this one (There are no hip measurements for this pattern 🤷‍♀️). The pattern is drafted for a height of 5’6″ so I needed to shorten it (I’m only 5’3″) – I took out 1.5″ spread evenly across two different points in the pattern (half at the lengthen shorten line which is approx at the waist and half just below the bust). There was no information on the finished sleeve length so I didn’t shorten the pattern although given the height it is drafted for I might have expected to need to. The pattern is drafted for a C cup but the instructions indicate it should accommodate an A-D cup without need for adjustment so I did not do an FBA (I usually would at a D cup). I used a lightweight grey marled jersey and made the long-sleeved scoop neck full-length version.

Overall the fit of this one is a little bit strange. It is quite short (I think it still would be even if I had not shortened it) and the sleeves are a perfect length for me even though I did not shorten them – all of this makes me question whether the statement that it is drafted for someone 5’6″ is correct. I would suggest that it is probably best to compare the finished measurements to a t-shirt you like the length of and go from there when planning any length adjustments on this one.
The low scoop neck on this one is very low and wide so it does mean it has a slight tendency to pull off my shoulders.

Having said all that, and highlighted some of the many problems with this pattern I actually quite like the style of the top, especially when paired with some high waisted jeans or tucked into a skirt.

Total score 22/50

Thanks for reading this review of the Paris Tee. If you want to know how this compares to some of the other free tee patterns out there be sure to check out my other reviews and the full list of free tee patterns available that I hope to conquer over the next few months!

Have you sewn up the Paris Tee? What did you think of it?

p.s. to keep up with my makes as part of this #HSewsFreeTees project you can follow along on Instagram

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Free Tee Review: The Paige Piko Top by Made for Mermaids

Its time to review another free tee!
If you missed the round-up or my last review, you can find the list of all the patterns here.

As you might know by now I am hoping to get through as many of the free tee patterns as possible and let you know what I think of them. For each tee pattern, I review I will look at 4 different aspects of the pattern: the options available (including different looks and size ranges), how easy it is to get hold of the pattern, printing and assembling the pdf, and the instructions/construction. For each of these four categories, I will give the pattern a score out of ten. I will also give a score out of ten for my version of the pattern (including thoughts on the fit and overall impressions). So in total, each tee will get a score out of 50 making it really easy to compare these patterns.

In this post, I will be taking a closer look at the Paige Piko top. This pattern is by Made for Mermaids, a company that I have not tried before although I recently discovered their sister company, Patterns for Pirates, and loved all the patterns I tried so I have high hopes for this one!

The Paige Piko top is a simple top/tunic with dolman sleeves. It has a straight cut from chest to hip in a piko style.

Options available 10/10

Made for Mermaids use their own sizing system so make sure you go based on your measurements rather than your “usual” size. There are however 9 different sizes available for this pattern so it has quite a good range (Bust measurements 30-51″). The pattern includes four sleeve options: short, half and long as well as a flounce sleeve. There are also four length options: top, straight or curved tunic, and dress length. You can also choose a high or low scoop neckline. All in all this pattern can be made up in 32 different combinations so there really are a lot of options available! In addition, there is a blog post on the Made For Mermaids blog with lots of pattern hack ideas for this pattern expanding the options yet again! There is also plenty of opportunities to see so many of these different options in a range of different sizes in all of the photographs both on the pattern page of the website and in the downloaded pattern itself.

Getting hold of the pattern 10/10

This pattern is listed outright as free on the website so just add it to your cart and away you go!

Printing and assembling the pdf 9/10

There is a handy guide included in the pattern for which pages you should print for the top, tunic or dress, (I printed 21 pages in total). Be careful to follow this, otherwise if you print the whole file you will also print the instructions and loads of pictures of the finished garments!

Bonus points for having a 1″ gauge square on each pattern page so if you forget to print a page you don’t need to print the gauge square as well to check your printer settings you can print just the page you need.

As for assembling the pdf, this pattern comes with no trim pages. This means you simply line up the edge of each page with the solid line on the next page. I actually found this really easy for this pattern and stuck the whole lot together super quick!

Instructions and construction 9/10

The instructions are really detailed in this pattern. There are even instructions on how to adjust for height included within the pattern. I really like that a lot of the small details which are often skipped were included in the instructions for this pattern such as the option to press a memory hem before sewing side seams – this makes it easier to press the hem on the constructed garment. I also like that the instructions are explicit about what to do differently if you are using a regular sewing machine or an overlocker.

The instructions are illustrated with photographs to help visualise what to do in each step, however, the fabric used is quite busy which can be a little distracting making it hard to see where the seams are at times.

The instructions for the neck binding come first as an additional skill section – when this step is needed in the main instructions you are referred back to that section but it gives you the option to just bind the neck without having to read through that section if you are already familiar with the technique.

Final Impressions 9/10

For this pattern, the instructions say to choose a size based on your hip measurements as it is semi-fitted there and loose everywhere else. My hip measurement (39 inches) put me in a size “blue” so this is what I cut out (in fact my bust measurement also put me in a “blue” which doesn’t often happen as I usually need a smaller size up top). Following the instructions to adjust for height, I took out 1″ from the height (half an inch at each of the bust and waist positions).

My version is made in a marled grey jersey which is very lightweight. I opted for a half sleeve straight tunic length Paige with a high scoop neckline.

Overall I really like the fit and style of this one. It is a loose fit but seems to be well proportioned and the sleeves fit pretty well to help hold the shape. I think perhaps the sleeves should be shortened a tiny bit for me as they hit right on my elbows which can be a little irritating. I like the tunic style as I can wear it loose for a super comfy style with leggings or tucked in or knotted with jeans for a casual everyday look.

I have never sewn any patterns by Made for Mermaids before this but they are definitely on my radar now – a really nice pattern with clear instructions and a new favourite tee!

Total score 47/50

Thanks for reading this review of the Paige Piko Top. If you want to know how this compares to some of the other free tee patterns out there be sure to check out my other reviews and the full list of free tee patterns available that I hope to conquer over the next few months!

Have you sewn up the Paige Piko Top? What did you think of it?

p.s. to keep up with my makes as part of this #HSewsFreeTees project you can follow along on Instagram

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Free Tee Review: The Stellan Tee by French Navy

So here is the first of my free tee pattern reviews!
If you missed the round-up, you can find the list of all the patterns here.

I am hoping to get through as many of the free tee patterns as possible and let you know what I think of them. For each tee pattern, I review I will look at 4 different aspects of the pattern: the options available (including different looks and size ranges), how easy it is to get hold of the pattern, printing and assembling the pdf, and the instructions/construction. For each of these four categories, I will give the pattern a score out of ten. I will also give a score out of ten for my version of the pattern (including thoughts on the fit and overall impressions). So in total, each tee will get a score out of 50 making it really easy to compare these patterns.

In this post, I will be taking a closer look at the Stellan Tee. I chose to tackle this one first as it is one of the most popular free tee patterns out there – I see loads of them popping up on my Instagram feed and I hear lots of people recommending it as a good basic tee pattern. So let’s dive right in!

The Stellan Tee is described as a simple t-shirt with set-in sleeves

Options available 2/10

The Stellan pattern comes in 7 sizes (Bust measurement 32-42″) so it is quite a restricted size range compared to some of the other free tee patterns. There is also only the one view for a semi-fitted tee with short sleeves.

Getting hold of the pattern 10/10

It is so easy to get your hands on this free pattern. Just navigate to the Stellan Tee page on the French Navy website. Scroll to the bottom of the post and there are links to download the files. There are three separate files you can download – the instructions, and either a print at home copy (this is what I used) or a copyshop file if you want to send it off to be printed on A0 paper.

Printing and assembling the pdf 7/10

Simply print the whole file (17 pages) – it is just the pattern, no need to figure out which pages are not needed as the instructions are all in a separate file. You do need to trim the pages on this one. I took off the bottom and right-hand edge of each sheet. You can then line them up and stick them together.

Instructions and construction 7/10

The instructions are very clear with line-drawn illustrations making it easy to see exactly where stitch lines are placed and how the garment is constructed. However, in places the instructions are somewhat minimal – for example, you are instructed to “Reinforce shoulder seams by your preferred method”. There are also no additional instructions regarding grading or how to do certain techniques as there are in some other patterns.
The pattern includes a 1/4 inch seam allowance throughout which I found to be quite tricky to sew – maybe because I am new to overlocking. Because of this, I did have to take a bigger seam allowance for the neckband to make sure I got it nice and even.

Final Impressions 5/10

I had to grade from a small at the bust (and sleeves) to a medium at the waist and hips. I used a marled grey lightweight jersey.

Generally, I stuck to the instructions throughout. I did add the optional neck reinforcement which I think gives it a tidier look overall. The only extra step I added was to coverstitch the neck binding seam allowance down (it had a tendency to flip out, probably because I took a bigger seam allowance than specified when stitching it).

Overall I am unsure of the fit, I guess this is the intended style but I am not quite convinced by it – there is too much shaping for it to be a loose boxy fit but it is too baggy to describe it as semi-fitted. The sleeves don’t really hang right on me and they are a strange length finishing a little too long for a short-sleeved tee. I think I will probably roll them up a bit and put some tacks in to keep them in place. In the pattern the sleeves are described as “set-in” but on me, they are definitely a “drop-shoulder” look. Maybe I need a narrow shoulder adjustment on this pattern but I don’t usually have that problem. I do really like the fit and style of the neckline and the curved hem but probably won’t be making this one again as I think I would need to make quite a few adjustments to the pattern to get a good fit.

Total score 31/50

Thanks for reading this review of the Stellan Tee. If you want to know how this compares to some of the other free tee patterns out there be sure to check out my other reviews coming soon – but for now here is the list of free tee patterns available that I hope to conquer over the next few months!

Have you sewn up the Stellan Tee? What did you think of it?

p.s. to keep up with my makes as part of this #HSewsFreeTees project you can follow along on Instagram

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Free Tee Patterns Round Up

Hi everyone!
I am so sorry I have been very quiet for a long time but as some of you might know I have been unwell for a few months but I am starting to get a bit better very slowly – so its time to start thinking about sewing again!

For Christmas, my amazing parents got me the most wonderful gift I could imagine – a brand new Pfaff Coverlock machine!!

To allow me to practice using this fabulous machine and ease myself gently back into sewing after a few months break I have decided that I will make myself some basic tees!

Because I am new to the world of overlocking and coverstitching I don’t want to break the bank on masses of new patterns so I have decided to stick to free pdf patterns, and it turns out there are A LOT to choose from. So here I have compiled a list of the free t-shirt sewing patterns I can find.

Over the coming weeks/months I will endeavour to make a few of these (I can’t promise I will get through them all) and let you know what I think. It’s time to find out if these free patterns are worth the investment(!)

Disclaimer: As there are so many free t-shirt patterns out there I have only included those here that are designed by an indie designer and are available as a pdf download. They should be designed to be made in a knit fabric. They must have some kind of sleeve option (so no tanks I’m afraid) and are designed for a female figure.

So here we go, listed below you will find the designers name and then the name of the free tee pattern. There is a link to each pattern included below (some of them are not marked as free but you can get discount codes for them in the pattern company’s Facebook group – all will be explained in the detailed reviews). As and when I review the patterns I will provide a link to the review here as well!

Bella Sunshine Designs – Reagan Raglan – Read my review here (38/50)

Blank Slate Patterns – Blanc T-shirt

Common Stitch – The Sparrow Tee

Deer and Doe – Plantain Tee

DIBY club – Anything but Basic Womens Tee

Ensemble Patterns – Greco Tshirt

Fancy Tiger Crafts – One Hour Top

Fine Motor Skills – Elise Tee

French Navy – The Stellan Tee  – Read my review here (31/50)

Glasshouse Patterns – Silene Tee

Grainline Studio – Hemlock Tee – Read my review here (35/50)

Greenstyle Creations – Green Tee – Read my review here (33/50)

Hallå – Agnes Swing Top

Hallå – Slim Dolman for women

Hallå – Stardust Top for women

iCandy Handmade – DIY fun summer tee

I Think Sew – Women’s T-Shirt

Itch to stitch – Uvita Top

Jalie – Yoko Square Roll-neck top

Laela-Jeyne Patterns – Mica T-shirt

Life Sew Savory – Women’s Raglan

Life Sew Savoury – Women’s fitted tee

Love Notions – Laundry Day Tee –  REad my review here (37/50)

Made For Mermaids – Women’s Paige Piko Top  – Read my review here (47/50)

Maria Denmark – Kimono tee

My Handmade Wardrobe – Simple Tee

Mood Sewciety – Lavender tee

Pattern Scissors Cloth – Galaxy t-shirt

Patterns For Pirates – Tulip Tee

Peekaboo Patterns – Adult Classic Sweatshirt

Peppermint Magazine – Jersey Top

Rebecca Page – Toronto Tee

Rebecca Page – Paris Party Top – Read my review here (22/50)

SecondoPiano – Basic InstincT – Read my review here (22/50)

Sewing Cake Patterns – The Tee

Striped Swallow Designs – Cloud 9 Tee

Tessuti – Mandy Boat Tee – Read my review here (34/50)

Tessuti – Monroe Turtle Neck

Tessuti – Our Fave Top

Winter Wear Designs – Cross Hem Tee

Like I said I will let you know when I have tried each of them and add a link to the review but in the meantime, I’d love to know if there are any you have tried already and what you thought – also please let me know if there are any I have missed and I will add them to the list!

Happy sewing!

p.s. If you want to keep up with my progress as I make these tees I will be using the hashtag #HSewsFreeTees over on Instagram so why not keep up with me there

EDITS: 8th Jan 2020 added Blanc t-shirt, Green tee, and Monroe turtle neck to the list. 9th June 2020 added the simple tee and the sparrow tee to the list, 2nd July 2020 added the Greco tshirt and our fave top to the list. 4th August 2020 added the silene tee, cross hem tee, women fitted tee, mica t-shirt, anything but basic womens tee, DIY fun summer tee, lavender tee, and galaxy t shirt to the list. 12th August 2020 added the Yoko pattern tothe list

 

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