FO: Seena Tops

This is a long overdue post that I keep forgetting to write, but the pattern is well worth the wait!
I was very lucky to test both the kids and adult version of the Seena Top by Gracious Threads.  This was offered free for a short period as part of a "New to knits" sewing challenge and it is the perfect pattern for those who are new to sewing with knit fabrics or feel intimidated by it.  The pattern piecing is a breeze, the tutorial very clearly lays out each step and explains all techniques to give you a top with a great finish :-)  It is now available to buy in her shop and if you follow the link above you will find the bundle listing of the kids (size 2T-8) and adult (size XXS-XXXL) patterns but they are also available separately.

Cut in just 2 pieces (front and back with sleeves attached) and with bands on the bottom and sleeves the only thing that is slightly tricky for a beginner is the bound neckline (but the pictorial directions even make that super easy)
So here are the versions I have made.  First up a size 3 with 4 length for Miss M.  This fabric drove me a bit mad as it wasn't printed straight but you can't tell once it's made up thankfully.

One thing that really impresses me with this pattern is that it doesn't end up wide under the arm which usually puts me off the dolman style of top.  You can see here where Miss M is being a monkey striking a pose.

Also apparently it works well of being a butterfly!

I also tested the top for myself making the XXS women's size grading out to the XS as the hip.  Again I found the fit great in both the tops I made.
The first one is a cotton jersey with limited stretch.

The second is some kind of poly knit that is very stretchy and slippery, this gives a looser fit due to the amount of stretch but I still like it.

So if you want a fast, easy but stylish top pattern this is it!  I can whip up one of these in about 20 mins start to finish.  Also if you want a cheat for the binding I posted one a wee while back here ;-)

Happy Sewing!