I recently had the opportunity to test the latest new pattern, the Carli, from Made for Mermaids. I ended up making both the tank and long sleeve versions and will go over fabric choices and my thoughts on the pattern below. I hope you enjoy this look at the new Made for Mermaids Carli Pattern.
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Made for Mermaids Carli Pattern Review
Pattern Description:
Pattern Sizing:
Made for Mermaids uses a color coded scale for their pattern sizing- the smallest Grey (34-35″ hip) to Navy (62-64″ hip). I make usual grading from the Pink bust to Purple waist/hip in their patterns and have always been very happy with the fit. They are drafted for a height of 5’5″ and a side waist of 8″. If you need help with grading sizes, adding/removing length, etc you will find some fitting help within the pattern and links to measurement help. The Carli twist back can slip a bit at the shoulder when made in a drapey fabric like sweater knit, so make sure you size this area for a closer fit if in between sizes.
SUPPLIES USED:
My twist back tank is cut using the scoop neckline and twist back option. I used a Double Brushed Poly from Hobby Lobby Fall Seasonal that I picked up on clearance. This fabric provides a more fitted look and I do not have any issues with the shoulders slipping off. Perfect for working out (although DPB doesn’t really breathe all that well so if you get super hot working out…maybe not). But I usually stay somewhat ok because hey, this girl only has about 20 minutes for working out anyway!
Styled here with buttery soft leggings from Amazon and slip on sneakers from Walmart.
My long sleeve version is cut using the scoop neckline, twist back, long sleeve with cuff pattern pieces. This is a loose sweater knit from Hobby Lobby that I picked up on clearance in the Fall Seasonal Fabric. Styled here with my latest obssession…all things Sofia Vergara Jeans from Walmart- so many affordable and cute styles, I really love the fit too. Stretchy but hold their shape. Back to the top…I love love love the extra long sleeve with the cuff and this super cozy sweater knit. My only complaint is that it likes to slip off my shoulder a bit in this fabric so I usually wear it with a tank or bralette under it…my favorite being the Bree Tank and barlettes from Made for Mermaids. (shown below)
DID IT LOOK LIKE THE PHOTO/DRAWING ON THE PATTERN ENVELOPE ONCE YOU WERE DONE SEWING?
Yes, I made no changes to the pattern as written. I chose to not add elastic in the armscye on the tank, but you can add elastic to help bring up the armscye in a bit if preferred.
WERE THE INSTRUCTIONS EASY TO FOLLOW?
Yes, I feel like Made for Mermaids does a great job overall with pattern instructions. The twist back option that I made is a bit more challenging than most patterns in their collection. The instructions for this part are clear if you follow each picture and direction carefully. I was able to put it together without using the video tutorial to help, however, there is a video available if you prefer to have some visual guidance during construction.
WHAT DID YOU PARTICULARLY LIKE OR DISLIKE ABOUT THE PATTERN?
All about that twist back!! I also like that you can wear this with the twist in the front or the back and that there is a simple crossover option as well.
WOULD YOU SEW IT AGAIN? WOULD YOU RECOMMEND IT TO OTHERS?
Yes, I made two versions during testing and would like to try the crossover option as well. This is a great pattern for those who are looking to sew up some fun twist options in knit fabric.
CONCLUSION:
Perfect for a casual work out tank or a fun top in sweater knit, the Carli Pattern from Made for Mermaids is a fun new addition to your knit pattern stash.
I hope you enjoyed this look at the new pattern release from Made for Mermaids: Carli
Until next time,
Happy Sewing