One Day Top - honestly!

While there is something very satisfying about slow and detailed sewing where you can incorporate many skills and couture details, sometimes you just need some clothes!

I needed some quick 'something to throw on over jeans' to start spring and I came across a pattern company that I hadn't seen before. At the Worcester Sew and Quilt Expo, I saw CNT Patterns and they had a number of quick and stylish pieces that I wanted to try. The one shown here is called "A Little Somethin' jacket" and is quick and easy. I did it in batik and was happy with the result.

The pattern includes a shorter version as well, with a shorter sleeve. It's cut generously and falls nicely and it would look different in each fabric, especially if you use your imagination in your embellishments.

The only construction technique I wasn't thrilled with was where you sew across the shoulder and then pivot across the neckline and to the other shoulder. I've seen if often, even in Vogue, when putting on a shawl collar, but I find it a bit tricky as you are actually cutting into your cloth to make a seam as opposed to matching seams. It did come out well, but only after I did it a second time.

It doesn't call for a button, but I found a wonderful glass button in the exact colors of the fabric, so I had to use it. It's a bit heavy for the fabric, so I have secured it with extra fabric on the underside. I thought a traditional buttonhole would be a bit boring, so I made 3 tubes by cutting 3 strips of one inch fabric, sewing and turning to form tubes, and then braiding them into a loop. I left the ends loose and hand-stitched it to the jacket.

Easy way to add a few quick every day pieces when you need to run out, but would like to look pulled together. Found matching red shoes -- way cool!