About an age and a half ago, the lovely Jennifer Lauren generously sent me a copy of her Bronte Knit Top to try out. With a long queue of sewing commitments to work through, it took me longer than anticipated to get to Bronte, but I can happily say that she's well worth the wait!
What sets this T-shirt pattern aside is Jen's signature vintage twist - the back pattern piece sweeps over the front of the shoulders resulting in a 1940s style shrug sleeve. It's such a sweet detail, exposing enough of the collarbone without being as problematic to fit as a boat-neck.
Bronte is one of those satisfyingly fast makes and can easily be sewn up without an overlocker. I just used my regular sewing machine and finished the neckline, sleeves and hem with my double needle. I managed to squeeze it out of just one metre of the most divine tropical floral print jersey from my stash and I'm feeling particularly smug about my stripe matching skills.
This pattern is so easy to work with that I really don't have much more to add about the construction. I can also assure you that despite its simplicity, Bronte is very well drafted with really clear instructions and an accurate sizing chart to boot. If you've never sewn with knits/jersey before don't panic! Jen's got you covered with a series of helpful tips and tutorials.
Have you tried out Bronte yet? What are your thoughts on sewing with jersey?
beautiful!!! the cut of the bronte is really flattering.
ReplyDeleteYes, it's definitely a more flatterng look than the traditional T-Shirt!
DeleteI agree and such a lovely fabric. Am terrified of sewing with knits though. :)
ReplyDeleteOh no, don't be! Most of the new indie patterns for knits hold your hand through their excellent instructions. It's really not as scary as you might think!
DeleteLove the fabric, it's so lush, I'm envious of it. Love knits, will be adding this to my summer wardrobe for sure.
ReplyDeleteAaaw, thanks Lesley!
DeleteLovely. I keep looking at this top, maybe I should just get on and buy it! Nice fabric too.
ReplyDeleteYeah, do it already! ;o)
DeleteLove your version, beautiful fabric :o)
ReplyDeleteLovely fabric! Perfect for this top pattern.
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness, that fabric is fantastic! Love this top on you :)
ReplyDeleteIt was a great find, i must admit!
DeleteI loved the Bronte already, but oh my gosh it's gorgeous in a bold print! I really need to get a copy for myself.
ReplyDeleteEverything's better in a bold print...hehe!
DeleteBeautiful fabric and I love this shape on you!
ReplyDeleteOh how pretty!! I really love that print! It looks sooo lovely on you!
ReplyDeleteThanks a million Sallie!
DeleteThe print placement on this is divine! Probably my favourite one I've seen so far.
ReplyDeleteOooh high praise indeed, thanks so much!
DeleteWhat a fab pattern and I love the fabric you've used.
ReplyDeleteAli xx
Thanks Ali!
DeleteThat fabric is gorgeous, and you're right to feel a bit smug about your stripe matching! I made a Bronte a couple of weeks ago and really like it - I'm on the lookout for some nice fabric for a long sleeved version now.
ReplyDeleteHehe, thank you! A snuggly long sleeve version would be delightful!
DeleteAwesome! that fabric is fantastic. I'm definitely going to check out the patterns on that etsy store, never heard of her before but glad I have now!
ReplyDeleteHer patterns are lovely, you won't regret it!
DeleteThat's lovely...now I need to buy this pattern! With long sleeves since fall might be a bit chilly.
ReplyDeleteYou can't go wrong with it, go for it!
DeleteWow! Sometimes I see knit t-shirt patterns and think that they look the same but this is super cute! I'll have to check it out, thanks :) Also: DAMN that stripe matching!
ReplyDeleteThanks Carlee ;o) The cute neckline/shoulder detail really sets Bronte apart!
DeleteLove everything about this and definitely intend to add this pattern to my stash now. Thanks for introducing me to it :) Completed my first Coco recently but I don't think you can have too many basic knit patterns!
ReplyDeleteYou're right! Basic knit patterns are the perfect go-to patterns for a quick make and comfie garment...can't go wrong with that eh!?
DeleteThis is a totally sweet make Marie! I love the fabric you've chosen + that neckline is I think is so flattering.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much Sophie!
DeleteLove it! This pattern is at the top of my autumn/winter sewing queue.
ReplyDeleteOooh, have fun with it Nikki!
DeleteThis is a really flattering top and such a lovely print
ReplyDeleteDEFINITELY worth the wait! That fabric is soooo cute!
ReplyDeleteAaaaw, thank you lovely!
DeleteOoh! Delightful! I've actually just bought the bronte and therefore it's on my autumn sewing list. Love the idea of a tropical one!! So pretty
ReplyDeleteWinnie, you're going to look so cute in a Bronte!!!
DeleteBeautiful! That neckline is really flattering!
ReplyDeletethat collar looks like it's framing your (preeeetty) face. Lovely!
ReplyDeleteAaaw, thanks so much!
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