Now

This top comes from the Now half of the Sewing Workshop's Now and Zen pattern.

Above you can see it before I added buttonholes and buttons. I always try to take a few pictures before adding buttonholes. That way, if I completely wreck it, I have a picture of it before disaster struck. I have a buttonhole phobia.

Whew!

I really like this collar. It has a Downton Abbey feel to it, I think. The distinctive characteristic of each shirt in this pattern is the collar. The Now collar is rolled and attached to the shirt in a burrito style. The longer edges of the collar are completely enclosed via top-stitching. This technique is used also in the Zen shirt which has a double collar.

This is the shorter shirt provided in this pattern, a little too short, I think. So I added 3 inches to its length and 3 inch side vents. I also added the sweet little pocket from TSW's Florence pattern. Lastly I narrowed the sleeves to 11.5 inches. I liked the effect of narrowing the sleeves on my recent make of the Hudson top.

It is a very simple make. I was inspired to make it after receiving my copy of the January issue of Sew Confident. In this issue, Linda Lee's associate Kathy describes a number of variations she has tried with this basic pattern. I cannot wait to try the one that employs a double layer of knits with exposed seams.

This is your basic blank canvas. My fabric is a cross-dyed silk, or maybe a blend, in black and iridescent blue. It reads navy but has interesting shadows and a sheen. I purchased it from Laura Murray as a 3 yard bundle. It washes beautifully, though I may dry-clean it in order to maintain this rich color.

It is also a very forgiving fabric to sew. I placed the pocket poorly and had to unstitch it. None of the original stitching shows! As Mama always said, it's all about the fabric.

Now I have some delicious remnants to incorporate into other pieces. Since I was enjoying this fabric, I stayed with it and made a simple envelope purse.

The straps are bias tubes from a thrifted neck tie.

It is definitely winter where I am so I will need to wear a cami or other undershirt for now. As I sit enjoying a fire, I think I am ready to make a coat.