Atlas Top

Yesterday was over 90 degrees with smokey air. That means I spent the day inside, windows closed, in a building with no AC. I honestly don't know what I'd do without my sewing this year because it really is the only thing that makes things bearable. Can't even do any stress baking without turning up the oven. Luckily sewing also gives me the skills to sew up amazing warm weather tops like the Atlas Top, the newest release from Stitch Witch Patterns. 

Pattern: Stitch Witch's Atlas Top 

Fabric: 1 yd jersey knit

Cost: fabric remnants from my mom

While I haven't pattern tested anything in a while, I have an abundance of time on my hands and was immediately drawn to this pattern. The front has clean lines and a shape I really like with a high neckline and the perfect sleeveless cut. It also has interesting bust darts that emanate from the center front seam rather than the sides, which keeps things interesting. 

Of course, the back is the real star of this pattern. It has a lovely criss-cross strap design that is really cute! It also helps to keep things breezy when it is the aforementioned 80+ degrees inside my apartment. And while I almost never wear a bra these days, I put one on for these photos and was pleasantly surprised to see that it's pretty bra friendly. 

As I do for most pattern tests, I first sewed this up muslin fabric to test the fit and construction. Madeline had already adjusted the neckline to sit a tad lower and the bust darts to sit a tad higher and the fit was spot on for me. Since the testing phase, she also reported making the sides a bit more fitted but I prefer this cut. 

For my final version, I sewed it up in a remnant jersey from my stash. This top is NOT intended for stretch knits, but it being quarantine and fire season and I all I decided to work with what I had on hand. The bust darts sit a bit too low in a knit but otherwise it's really comfy and works well. Someday I hope to make it up in a woven whenever I'm able to restock the right fabric. 

I sewed this final version up in a length slightly longer than the cropped version. Unlike a traditional shirt, you have to make the length adjustments before cutting out your pattern, as the back straps need to be adjusted to hit at the right length. I have a long torso, and so this length allows it to sit perfectly with my high-waisted jeans. 

Madeline, the designer, has a degree in Fashion Design and has worked in the industry before designing sewing patterns. I really appreciate patterns from those who have taken the time to get more formal training as I find they are more dependable to fit and sew. This top is simple but came together really nicely and has thoughtful fit and construction. The only thing is I wish she had added some more pattern markings, particularly at the shoulders, to help you put things together more easily. If you measure right and are careful with the facings though, you will have a nice, clean finish on your top. 

Ok, off to go fan myself and dream of another long weekend of sewing...