As a home sewer who loves building a DIY wardrobe, there are few things more exciting than discovering a new pattern company with so many cute styles. The Sewing and the City Patterns have everything from cozy loungewear to chic wardrobe builders. Today I am showing you the Hudson Top.
Hudson Top Pattern Review
Pattern Description:
The Hudson is a relaxed-fitting top with a mock neckline that closes with a tied bow in the back. It’s fully lined with a sleeveless dropped shoulder.
Sizing:
Available in Women’s Sizing 2-20 (bust 32″-46″) I cut the size 4 at the bust and graded out to a 6 at the waist and hip. I think the sizing is spot on but I do find the neck area a little tighter than I would like. I may need to size up to a 6 through the neck and shoulders on future makes.
Fabric Used:
Sheer Floral Organza and Silky Satin Lining – both thrifted The sheer is printed with a Jo-Ann Fabric label on the selvage edge.
Other Helpful Supplies Used:
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Medical Exam Paper to trace pattern pieces for one solid front instead of cutting on fold. This helps get accurate cuts when working with shifty fabric. Also, use paper for tissue sandwiching the satin for easy cutting and sewing. This prevents slippery fabrics from moving while cutting/sewing and provides stabilization for the stitch.
Rotary Cutter with pinking blade to trim seams and allow for no fraying and smooth pressed seams on satin and organza fabrics.
Did it look like the pattern photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing?
Yes, I think the final top looks as intended. My fabric choice is a bit less drapey and makes for a slightly boxier look.
Were the instructions easy to follow?
In general, yes the instructions were easy to follow. There are clear steps and illustrations for someone who is familiar with garment construction. I am not sure that all steps would be easy for a new sewist – methods like the burrito roll and the collar can be more challenging. I struggled with the collar instructions and made a recommendation to the pattern designer to specify that you only sew one side of the collar to the bodice front/lining during the construction. It is confusing with the wording and illustration and I messed up on this pink top when putting it together. Once the designer clarified the instructions, my other Hudson collars went on without a problem.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I love the simple shape and the ties that can be styled many different ways. There are no dislikes.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I did not make any changes to the pink top. I later added length to create a dress. The yellow dress below shows my first attempt at the mini-dress which turned out to be a tad more mini than I prefer. There will be another blog post with my second mini-dress where I added 10 inches to the pattern.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes and yes- I have already made 4 and think it is a fabulous top or dress to add to your wardrobe. It is quick to sew, yet provides a quality garment with a full lining. I would recommend it to others.
Until next Time,
About 18 years ago I decided to teach myself how to sew. Long before blogs and resources available today which meant it was often disastrous. But I never gave up because I loved it so much. Today I love helping others get started on their own sewing journey. You can read more about my family and I