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I was recently given the opportunity to test out the Sheona Top Pattern from Athina at AK Patterns. Have you seen this pattern and all the incredible hacks that the designer provides? Talk about versatility in a pattern, this one really packs a punch. In addition to the base pattern and dress, Athina has included a whole booklet of pattern hacks and instructions. For my review I chose to create the tie front hack and I am thrilled with the pattern overall. However, I did learn a couple of tips I want to pass on to you to help you create the best Sheona Top Pattern possible. Below you will find my full Sheona Top Pattern Review.
Sheona Top Pattern Review
PATTERN DESCRIPTION:
A staple in every wardrobe, the Sheona dress and top shouldn’t be missing from your collection. It is the perfect pattern to try if you are sewing with knit fabrics for the first time or if you are looking for a quick, satisfying make. Sheona is the epitomy of versatility. She comes with 5 versions to choose from: Version 1 is a simple shift dress, Version 2 is a basic top, Version 3 features a dramatic ruffle at the hem of the dress, Version 4 is a ruffled hem top and Version 5 is a very cute shift dress with narrow ruffled hems. There are also two different sleeve options available: short and 3/4 length to take you from spring and summer to autumn and winter.
But the variations of this pattern don’t stop there. Its simple lines will allow you to use it as a base for dozens of modifications. Don’t believe us? Check out the 16 hacks I created for it
PATTERN SIZING:
All our patterns come in sizes UK 4-28 (US 0-24, EU 32-56)
I created the size 8 bust graded to 10 hip. I find AK Patterns to fit me quite well. I love the fit through the shoulder and arms and feel as though this is a well drafted t-shirt pattern. The neckband fit perfectly and all pattern pieces and notches lined up.
Supplies Needed:
- Sheona Pattern
- Fabric: I chose a rayon spandex from Hobby Lobby. It was a seasonal print but here are more knit options from their site. Here are the recommended fabrics from the pattern:
The Sheona dress and top is designed for knit fabrics with two-way stretch. We recommend using medium weight knits with at least 20% stretch, such as cotton jersey, cotton spandex or ponte di Roma. The top versions can also be made in lighter-weight knits like viscose jersey or a lightweight cotton jersey. It is best to stay away from very thin and very stretchy fabrics, especially if you are making the dress versions, as these fabrics tend to stick to your body and aren’t very flattering. In addition, knits with more weight to them are are much easier to handle and work with, so keep that in mind if you are a beginner in working with these types of fabrics.
DID IT LOOK LIKE THE PHOTO/DRAWING ON THE PATTERN ENVELOPE ONCE YOU WERE DONE SEWING?
I sewed one of the hacks so it looks like the base of the t-shirt pattern with the exception of the tie front.
WERE THE INSTRUCTIONS EASY TO FOLLOW?
Yes, not only are the regular pattern instructions easy to use, there are also instructions for 16 different hacks. I chose to follow the hack for the tie front and even with my inability to free hand draw a stick figure I was able to complete this hack and draw my own tie front piece by following along. While I think I followed the instructions well I have to say I picked up my first tip here and that is be careful how long you make your ties. I chose to draw mine similar to the pattern directions but think I accidentally added in an inch or so on the bottom as I tried to smooth out my curve I drew. With the fabric I chose I think this makes them hang a bit to long and floppy..which leads me to my second tip in the next paragraph.
Paired with: The softest, stretchiest hold their shape “jeans” from Amazon…love these things.
And earrings that are lightweight, under 10 bucks and go with EVERYTHING! I am wearing the red floral color.
WHAT DID YOU PARTICULARLY LIKE OR DISLIKE ABOUT THE PATTERN?
I loved everything about this pattern, there are no dislikes. However, I would choose a slightly less stretchy fabric if I were to do the tie front again. While I love the look of the tie front, I feel like my fabric hangs and flops around a bit too much. So, in combination with shortening up my ties I think I would pick something more like a cotton spandex with a tad more structure to it. Which leads me to my final tip….check that your fabric is similar or the same color on both sides before choosing it for the tie front hack. I don’t like how you can see the white side of my fabric so much when it is tied.
WOULD YOU SEW IT AGAIN? WOULD YOU RECOMMEND IT TO OTHERS?
Yes, I plan to make more of these shirts and dresses from this pattern. I hope to make some plain everyday ones and jazz up my wardrobe with some of the hacks. The fit is so great, I definitely want more everyday t-shirts.
CONCLUSION:
I love this pattern. I am impressed with the fit, the pattern pieces, the ease of construction and all the options you can create with one pattern. A great basic to add to your pattern collection that provides you with a great variety of options to build your wardrobe.
Like this Athina Pattern? I recently reviewed the Suzy Dress from the same designer. You can check it out HERE.
Need more mustard yellow in your life? Who doesn’t? Here are some more looks to enjoy.
Until next time,
Happy Sewing