Orono Top

In contrast to my previous detailed and involved project, the Envigado, I have gone for something much easier this time with a feminine raglan sleeve, petal front knit jumper/sweater.  Complete with those all important pockets, this pattern is for the more structured less stretchy knits like ponte, sweatshirt, fleece and double knits.  This is the latest pattern by Itch to Stitch, rated Beginner+, the Orono Top.  Ps. yes, it does also make a perfect breastfeeding top!

 I chose an £8 per metre baby French Terry (marked as cotton lycra but slightly loop backed and not as stretchy as normal C/L) from Hobbycraft for my final version and a ponte from Barry's fabric for my trial muslin.  

Sizing.  Since my back injury last year, my size has changed somewhat. I have gone from a straight 0 to a 2 bust/waist and 4 hips.  This means I now have to blend between sizes on almost all patterns.  with the Envigado, this was simple.  With the Orono, I had to remember to also redraw the curve on the pocket piece.  Full instructions are, as always, included for blending sizes as well as lengthening/shortening but this was one of the first times I had to pay FULL attention to them.  

This was a really nice straight-forward sew with the only real points to note being the pocket construction.  I have made MANY different pockets over the years and this is the first time I've ever made one using this method.  It achieves a sort of cross between an in-seam and a welt pocket! Interesting huh?! If you follow the instructions and make double sure you match all the notches, you won't go wrong and it is way quicker and easier than a welt pocket for sure.

On the subject of notches....I LOVE them! They save SO much time measuring, pinning/clipping, quartering and this pattern is full of them.  No hassle at all fitting and matching any piece together, especially the collar as there is a notch at every seam and the centre front/back, super easy!

Another feature I must talk about is the sleeve dart.  Raglans have a habit of fitting a little awkwardly at the shoulder due to trying to fit a flat piece of fabric onto a curved piece of your body.  Kennis has removed this known issue here by adding in a shoulder dart! Not only that but the method to sew it is even easier to sew than a standard dart too!

The Orono is on release sale for just $8 (£6.20) until midnight 24th February (Central time) only!

AND don't forget the permanent 'Buy More Save More' discount automatically applied at checkout...why not treat yourself to the mountain view pull on jeans pattern too.  I'm wearing mine with the Orono in these photos

Related Blogposts

Nottingham Top by Itch to Stitch

Anza Dress and Jumpsuit by Itch to Stitch

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