Renfrew Take 2 - with Zipper

You may recall that I tested the Renfrew top in a size 12 recently - it has a very nice cowl neck. I wanted to make another in a larger size and I wanted to include a zipper at CF. (An idea I saw in RTW.) The zipper ends at the cowl, so it is functional, but not particularly useful.

The fabric is a novelty knit from Fabric Mart about a year ago. It has a black underlayer and a mottled grey-ish knit overlayer. There are circles cut out of the over layer, exposing the black under layer.

Once again, I did the Vertical Only FBA. On this version, I had to narrow the shoulders by about 5/8". Once again, I left off the bands and the hem and wrists. I otherwise made no changes.

I like this top! It is very easy to wear and the collar lays nicely. This pattern line is designed for pear shaped women. I am not pear shaped, but this top seems to work on most all body types.

Sewing Gadget - Headlamp

I recently spent a couple days sewing with a few friends. I was concerned about the available light so, in addition to my two Ott lights, I brought a Petzl head lamp. I love this thing! It focuses an amazing amount of light wherever your head is pointed. (To order your own through Amazon, click the picture above.)

What a goofball!

I also visited Loes Hinse's shop in Carmel. She is such a generous, kind person and a real character. I always enjoy seeing her. I have several friends who regularly travel to Carmel for her retreats. That is the best way to obtain her latest patterns. It's been awhile since she's released an envelope pattern, but she does have new designs available. I saw her spend a lot of time advising sewers on exactly how to alter her patterns to achieve the perfect fit, even if it didn't result in a sale.

Loes is a beauty!

I did make a few items over the weekend. Once I get some pictures, I will be blogging them!