Sorbetto sewing adventures

A little while ago I wrote about a really quick and easy top I stitched up called the Sorbetto, you can see the original post here. I really enjoyed the process of following this simple free pattern and knew I'd make more as soon as the chance presented itself.

During the summer I made the top below but never got around to writing it up so here it is. The fabric came from an old sheet and I managed to find bias tape that perfectly matched the pale green in the design.

I also decided to make a couple of tops for my gorgeous Mum (who I hope doesn't read this before I get the chance to give them to her). It's funny how the process of sewing for someone other than yourself pushes you to improve your technique and finish garments to a higher standard. When I was sewing the two tops below for Mum I spent extra time doing French seam finishes and bias tape hemming. French seams are well worth the effort, particularly if you don't use an over-locker. For a simple tutorial have a look at this.  I'm hoping they fit well but if not, the Sorbetto would not be difficult to alter.

Left: Bias finished hem and French side seam  Right: French seam on shoulder

I think the next time round (because there will most definitely be a next time) I might add sleeves. If you're trying this at home I've found a very simple free download for a Sorbetto sleeve here.

Sorbetto anyone?

Hello summer people!
With the warmer weather coming on (and going it has to be said) what better time is there for whipping up a quick and cute summer top? There's so much good will in the online sewing community which has meant there are some fabulous free pattern downloads available. One of the better ones comes from Colette in the form of the Sorbetto. Once you've cut out and stick-taped all the pattern pieces together it couldn't be quicker to sew one up.

I had a crack at this recently using some fabric from a thrifted bed sheet and some old bias binding I had lying around. The cost is probably less than 50p! Because the fabric is pretty busy I didn't add any embellishments this time. It's a very simple construction with no zips or buttons and just two bust darts along with the pleat down the front.

What would I do differently I hear you ask? I'd add about 10cm on to the bottom because this is almost too short for me to wear comfortably. I think it would be easy to re-draft this pattern into a dress by adding some length at the bottom and flaring it slightly. There's no end of images on Pinterest, Flickr and the like of variations on this classic design. I might even have another go at a new version tonight!