A little shout out to Australia today with my new Bonnie sweater from Bluegingerdoll! It wasn’t until I made this that I realized there are quite a few Aussie patternmakers, aren’t there? Quite an impressive tally, and then there’s the New Zealand ladies too! That corner of the world is up to some great things in the sewing world, great things indeed. Here’s my first piece designed in Australia, and made in New York City. :)
Before I start, if you only read one thing in this post then read this: this pattern has 1/4″ seam allowances. Make sure you remember that before sewing pieces together! I know most of us are used to 5/8″ seams.
Okay, so…
When I first saw this pattern a few weeks ago I think I said, “What?! That’s adorable!” You know from my knitting shenanigans that I love a cropped cardigan/sweater, so I couldn’t wait to get my hands on a sewing equivalent. While I much prefer printed patterns – so much more fun to collect – the whole shipping thing made me go with the PDF version in the end. I was hoping to find a stockist in the US who carried Bluegingerdoll patterns, but all I could find was the PDF for sale on PatternReview. Oh well.
I can never seem to successfully match the pieces on PDF patterns by lining up the notches. I had trouble with this one too, though I made sure to print out the test square first and make sure everything was to scale. I ended up matching the pages by the border lines, which worked out better for me. All three neckline views are printed on the same front and back bodice pieces, so I was also careful to make sure I didn’t accidentally snip off a view I might like to use later! Of course, I could just print it out and cut again, but do I really want to do that? Methinks not (but it’s a nice option to have, I will admit).
This sweater uses up very little fabric in all sizes – great stash busters! I made view B for my first go and cut a size 6. The fabric I used is a really neat, hmm, cotton sweater knit fabric? It has thin silver “thread” that reminds me of tinsel. I made the lighting in these detail photos slightly darker to give you a better view of the fabric’s texture. In reality, the cream top-stitching pretty much disappears.
One side of the fabric is ribbed, which was perfect to use for the contrast neck and waistbands! I bought the fabric at Mood about a year ago with the intention of making a festive Christmas sweater. I guess it was holding on until Bonnie was released. :) I have a hand-written note that says this fabric is from Donna Karan. I have no idea if that’s true though.
The pattern is designed to be fitted, and recommends going up a size if you’re between sizes. I might do this for the bust next time by cutting a size 8 (but leaving the size 6 at the waist and neckline). The fabric isn’t pulling at the bust, but I can’t really wear this over anything except for a thin camisole. And I can’t help but feel a little aware that it’s quite fitted up there, but if the Spice Girls movie I finally got around to watching last month proves anything I might be a little too self-conscious. How’s that for a random tie in? Yikes, that movie is almost 20 years old!
Annnnyway, I should also mention that the size 6 neckband was a little lose and caused gaping at the back when I first basted it to the bodice. I ended up cutting about an inch off the neckband, which solved the problem.
The seams were serged and the sleeve hems, neckband and waistband were top-stitched down. I couldn’t decide which side to use as the main fabric so I feel like this pattern was perfect in helping me feature both.
After my wrap dress, I’m pleased to say this sweater was another quick project. I enjoy taking my time, but I’m not going to complain about some “instant” gratification every now and then. :)
I love that I can wear this untucked with a high-waisted skirt, such as my Charlotte skirt from last year! I usually tuck my shirts in with this type of skirt so I’m liking the variety. I foresee more Bonnies in my future!
If I look half asleep in these photos it’s because I stayed up way too late the night before knitting. ;) Zzzzz.
You are adorable, I love that fabric, and YES SPICE WORLD WHAT! ♥
Haha, aw, thanks! :-D
This sweater is fab! I love the little bit of tinsel like sparkle in the fabric, and how cool that it is ribbed on the reverse side! Gorgeous work.
The ribbing was a fun element to work into the sweater! I didn’t realize the potential to feature both sides until I saw this pattern.
Cute cute cute!!
Thanks thanks thanks!!
Super pretty!! I love the fabric and it looks great with that skirt.
I think the only way I’ll get a cropped sweater anytime soon is to sew one, lol
Haha, I know, right? Sewing a cropped sweater is a zillion times faster than knitting one. :-D Though I have plans to knit one soon…
This looks so great on you! The fabric is perfect for the holidays and the shape shows off your slammin’ figure!
Thanks, Sonja! I can’t wait to add more to my wardrobe. :-D
Wow, Abe’s… You are looking fabulously great! I’m so proud of you!!!!!!
Thanky!!
Hi, I love the sweater. Can you tell me if you took any ease out of the sleeve cap? Thanks!
Thanks, Charlene! I didn’t take any ease out of the sleeve cap. :)