New Look 6033 and 6100 Ikat!

Aloha!  I have two New Look patterns that I've been anxious to make.  First New Look 6100, which is a pattern for a pair of wide legged shorts with front pockets and a wide waistband.  Second, New Look 6033 which is a combination pattern for knits.  I really liked the view C top with the fluttery sleeves and wide v-shaped neckband.  Unfortunately, neither of my final looks are exact representations of the patterns, since I made several design changes.  But that is the great thing about sewing.  You can start with a pattern to help you with the basic structure.  Then add your own design elements to make it uniquely yours!

Let's start with the shorts.  I normally make a muslin for shorts or pants patterns, but since I was using a very inexpensive, $2.50/yard fabric, I decided to cut out the size 12, which is one size larger than I normally cut, and just fit the pattern as I sewed.  The final result is definitely wearable, but there are a couple of modifications I would incorporate should I sew these again.  I made view A, but left off the belt carriers and tie.  I don't like to wear my tops tucked in for the most part, so I didn't want the added bulk.  This pattern calls for an invisible zipper, but since these shorts are all made from scraps, I decided to use one of the old regular zippers from my stash.  My zipper application is less than stellar, but it will not be seen with my top covering it.  These shorts have very wide legs.  The circumference of the leg opening on my version is two inches smaller than how the pattern is drafted.  I decided to add some top-stitching to the cuff facing to jazz it up a bit.  The pattern drawing makes it look like you turn a cuff up, but it is actually a facing.

I also used some batik scraps for the pocket lining and waistband facings.  As you can see, I finished my pockets with pinking shears.  I like to do this on certain fabrics.  That way, the edges are not as visible from the outside.  Don't look too closely at the zipper, Yikes!  I much prefer an invisible zipper, but this is one more regular zipper reduced from my stash.

For the top I used and Ikat print rayon knit that I purchased during my spring trip to Oregon.  Once again, this was a fabric that had quite a large flaw in it.  I did not notice it until I washed it and laid it out to cut.  Bummer!  I was planning a dress with it, but my plans changed, since I had reduced yardage to work with.  It became a top.  All is well though.  I love it!

There were a few things I changed on View C of New Look 6033.  First, I cut two inches off the length before I added the contrasting facing on the bottom.  I also reduced the circumference of the facing and gathered the bottom of the top to fit it.  I really like this look on drapey knit tops.  Second, I left off the elastic at the waist.  There was no need for it now that the hip band is fitted.  Finally, on the sleeves, I added about 5/8" to the length, and instead of cutting the sleeves in two pieces (so that the sleeve can be split) I cut my sleeves in one piece.  I was more concerned about the pattern matching than having the split sleeve design.  And here is the whole outfit.  I plan to wear it tonight.  Hope you all have a great weekend and thanks for all your thoughts on the last outfit!