Search Results for “knit top” – Jennifer Lauren Handmade

The Esme Top

Esme sports a gentle, 50s-inspired batwing sleeve and your choice of a shawl collar or V-neckline. A quick and satisfying make, Esme is the perfect palate-cleanser between more involved projects.

A to F cups in sizes 6 to 34!
Up to hip 159.5cm or 62 3/4″

Check out the new Size Guide Info here.

The Details

Say hello to the Esme Top – with so many options included to personalise your Esme, you’ll be hard pressed to choose which mix’n’match options to make first. From cuffed long or short sleeves, to long-line or regular bodice lengths to shawl or V-necklines, Esme has something for everyone and every season.

The Shawl Collar variation looks great teamed with a pair of denim slacks or cropped pencil jeans for a retro Teddy Girl vibe. Alternatively, tuck a long-line, V-necked Esme into your favourite high-waisted skirt for the perfect casual Marilyn look.

Made with comfy stretch knits, the grown-on, 50s-style batwing sleeve can be worn short or extended (using the included Long Sleeve pattern piece) and Esme is perfect for colour and pattern blocking! Both the long and short sleeves include cuffed hemlines that are great for using up odd bits of knit scraps you have tucked away in your sewing room.

Esme is easy to grade under the arm for a more exaggerated batwing sleeve it that’s more your style. Esme has been styled with the Bastion Culottes, available in both JLH Original and JLHCurve size ranges.

Skill Level

Esme is designed for confident beginners through to advanced seamstresses. If you’ve never sewn with knits before, Esme could be the perfect project to dip your toes into the wonderful world of knits.

With a special technique for getting the perfect squared off necklines, you’ll be wondering why you didn’t jump in ages ago.

Sizing

The Esme Top comes in both the Original and Curve sizes individually, or in an economical bundle option where you can access both size ranges, from 6 to 34 with cups A to F. You can find the new sizing information here, including how to choose your cup size.

Depending on the size range you choose and your cup size, Esme can have slight negative to slight positive ease at the bust, to zero/positive ease at the waist.

If you’re worried about choosing a size, I’ve also included a whole bunch of additional Finished Garment Measurements. Simply compare these measurements to a knit top you already like the fit of (or one you know you’d like to alter) and you’ll be surprised at how much of the hard stuff is already done.

Esme is drafted for an average height of 170cm or 5’7″

Multiple Bust Cups – A to F

Due to the nature of knit fabrics and the gentle batwing sleeve, two cup sizes are integrated per front bodice – A+B and C+D Original Pattern, and C+D and E+F Curve Pattern. This gives a total of 4 front bodice pattern pieces to choose from (rather than 8 separated cups).

Fabric Options

Look for medium knit fabrics with good stretch across the grain. Knits should have 40% stretch with good recovery.

The long sleeved Esme works well in floppier/drapier knits with less structure (both long sleeve Esme examples – Jen in green and Tatenda in stripes, are made with 100% merino knit). In this case, if using the shawl collar, you may wish to interface this to keep it looking crisp and staying upright during wear.

All variations (bindings, shawl collar, long sleeve piece, cuffs) can be made with the same fabric as the body, or a contrasting fabric for colour and pattern blocking potential.

Meet the Models

Tatenda – Curve, Yellow Short Sleeve & Stripe Long Sleeve.

Tatenda is wearing a 24E+F Curve Esme Top. The waist is graded out to a 28 along with the hip.

3cm (1 1/8″) was removed in length from the long sleeve pattern piece. No adjustment was made to the bodice length, but please note Tatenda is shorter than the 170cm (5’7″) height Esme is designed for.

High Bust: 120cm / 47 1/4″

Full Bust: 130cm / 51 1/4″

Waist: 117cm / 46″

Hip: 145cm / 57 1/8″

Height: 157cm / 5’2″

Jen – Original, Stripe Short Sleeve & Green Long Sleeve

Jen wears a 10C+D Original Esme Top, graded out to a 12 at the waist and back to a 10 at the hip. No other adjustments were made to the pattern.

High Bust: 84cm / 33 1/8″

Full Bust: 91.5cm / 36″

Waist: 76cm / 30″

Hip: 99.5cm / 39 1/8″

Height: 170cm / 5″ 7′

The Vielle Top

With its flattering scoop neckline and side-tie detail, Vielle is the quintessential knit tee turned into a standout wardrobe staple.

Available in Digital & Paper formats.

The Details

Vielle is a classic fitted knit top with a twist — its gorgeous side-tie neckline detail lends a feeling of effortless chic to your outfit and is deceptively easy to make.

Three sleeve lengths will see you through all the seasons in comfort and style.

Made with stretch knits, Vielle is a little bit 40s-esque with a retro vibe, all mixed in with lovely details. Vielle is sure to become your go-to when you need something classy yet comfortable and quick.

Skill Level

Vielle is a great introduction to knits if you’re new to them, and if you’re a seasoned pro, you’ll more than likely be wearing a new top after just one sewing session.

The Vielle Top Designed for confident beginners through to advanced seamstresses.

Fabric Options

Look for lightweight knit fabrics with good stretch across the grain. Knits should have 40% stretch with good recovery.

The Vielle Top was drafted using a 95% cotton 5% lycra spandex knit with a weight of 180GSM (grams per square metre).

The Vielle instructions contain more detailed information on suitable knit fabric requirements.

Tutorials:

The Ostara Top

With a sweeping U-shaped or delicately pleated sweetheart neckline, The Ostara Top is the prettiest wardrobe essential you always knew you needed.

Ostara’s classic and comfortable silhouette is the perfect base layer for any outfit. Elbow-length or long sleeves will take you from day to night, through all of the seasons of the year.

The elegant wide set neckline is designed to keep bra straps hidden, whether you choose to keep it simple with the U-shaped neckline, or go a little more nostalgic with the sweetheart neckline.

Made with stretch knits, The Ostara Top is the ultimate 40s-inspired dressy t-shirt – hugging your body in all the right places for a flattering and comfortable fit.

Skill Level

Ostara is a great pattern for confident beginners. The U-neckline eases you into sewing with knits, and the sweetheart neckline lets you extend the pattern base with a few extra steps.

Fabric Options

Look for lightweight knit fabrics with good recovery. Knits should have a minimum of 40% stretch as Ostara has in-built negative ease, particularly across the bust.

When using a fabric with 40% stretch, Ostara will fit bust cups A to D.

The Ostara Top was drafted using a 95% cotton 5% lycra spandex knit with a weight of 180GSM (grams per square metre). For more in-depth knit fabric information, please click here.

Tutorials:

The Layers Function

Both Print-at-home and PrintShop Ostara pattern files now include the Layers Function.

You can choose to turn on and off any number and combination of pattern sizes to suit your personal needs and preferences. Check out page 3 of your Ostara instructions for a full step-by-step tutorial on using this handy little function.

The Bronte Top

A vintage take on the modern, comfortable and versatile fitted knit top, Bronte will appeal to both vintage lovers and modern gals alike.

What sets her apart from other knit top patterns is her delicate and flattering lapped shoulder and neckline detail. The back pattern piece sweeps over the shoulders creating a 40s style shrug sleeve that can then be left plain or decorated with buttons, ribbon, beads or other notions. Use a contrasting knit fabric for the binding or use the same fabric as the body, there are many options for customising your Bronte to suit your individual taste.

Dress her up for the evening or spend a day with her in the garden. She comes together quickly, is a super stash buster and is suitable for both the warmer months in short sleeves and the cooler months in long sleeves.

The Gable Top

With a classic 50s-inspired slash neckline, a long-line body for extra comfort and three different sleeve options, The Gable Top will become your new favourite go-to knit top pattern.

New Extended Size Range – A to F cups in sizes 6 to 34!
Up to hip 159.5cm or 62 3/4″

Check out the new Size Guide Info here.

The Details

With a classic 50s-inspired slash neckline, a long-line body for extra comfort and three different sleeve options, The Gable Top will become your new favourite go-to knit top pattern.

Gable is perfect for wearing all year round — layered with dresses and cardigans on chilly mornings or worn on its own with 3/4 skinny jeans or a high-waisted skirt à la Audrey in spring. Gable is a stylish weekend basic that can be easily dressed up and added to your office outfit rotation.

Fabric Options

Made with comfy stretch knits, Gable is a quick and easy sew that doesn’t use much fabric and turns out perfectly every time. Gable was designed using a 95% cotton/5% spandex knit fabric with a 40% stretch and good recovery.

The Gable Dress

Get even more out of your Gable Top pattern with the Gable Dress Expansion Pack! Choose from a gathered or pleated skirt for the comfiest (and most stylish) dress you’ve ever worn. Pockets included – of course!

The Gable Dress is not currently available in the JLH Curve Sizes/Original with cup sizes, but will be updated early 2022.

Skill Level

Designed for confident beginners through to advanced seamstresses.

Sizing

The Gable Top now comes in both the Original and Curve sizes individually, or in an economical bundle option where you can access both size ranges, from 6 to 34 with cups A to F. You can find the new sizing information here, including how to choose your cup size.

Gable is drafted for an average height of 170cm or 5’7″

Multiple Bust Cups – A to F

Due to the nature of knit fabrics, two cup sizes are integrated per front bodice – A+B and C+D Original Pattern, and C+D and E+F Curve Pattern. This gives a total of 4 front pattern pieces to choose from (rather than 8 separated cups).

If you fall into the smaller cup size, you may find there is a touch more fullness at the bust, but this should not effect the overall fit and feel of the top.

Tutorials

Check out the Gable Top Tutorial Series here. Topics include:

Meet the Models

Tatenda – Curve

Tatenda is wearing a 24E+F Gable Top graded to a 28 waist. The long sleeve had 3cm length removed.

High Bust: 120cm / 47 1/4″

Full Bust: 130cm / 51 1/4″

Waist: 117cm / 46″

Hip: 145cm / 57 1/8″

Height: 157cm / 5’2″

Jen – Original

Jen wears a straight 10C+D Original Gable Top. No other adjustments were made to the pattern.

High Bust: 84cm / 33 1/8″

Full Bust: 91.5cm / 36″

Waist: 76cm / 30″

Hip: 101cm / 39 3/4″

Height: 170cm / 5″ 7′

The Jade Wrap Dress

The Jade Wrap Dress is a fit’n’flare, apron-style back wrap dress.

Extended Size Range – A to F cups in sizes NZ6 to 34
Up to hip 159.5cm or 62 3/4″

Check out the Size Guide Info here.

The Details

Based on the classic apron styles of the 50s, Jade is a multi-tasking workhorse, able to be worn by itself out for summer-ice cream, as well as working fabulously well layered with knit top tees (the Gable Top is a favourite), or long sleeved blouses for cooler weather.

Jade features a fully lined sleeveless bodice with princess seam front shaping and darted back shaping, finished with a V neckline.

A wide A-line skirt includes side seam pockets and falls to below the knee. The back skirt overlaps almost side seam to side seam (it’s stepped back just a smidge so you can’t see the edge of the skirt when looking from the front), meaning you have plenty of coverage across the back – even in windy weather.

Jade can be made in both floatier fabrics with some drape for hot weather (think cool linens and floaty cottons) as well as heavier weight fabrics like denim and wool suitings for a crisper finish in cold weather.

Layer with a short or long sleeved Gable Top underneath for extra coverage, or try the blouson style of the Luna Lounge Set blouse or Aisling Blouse for some extra whimsy.

Skill Level

Jade is suitable for intermediate seamstresses or for confident beginners looking to expand their skillset with a little challenge.

While Jade has no additional fastenings – making it a relatively quick sew – taking your time over constructing the bodice is my top tip, paying particular attention to the back bodice angle (this can be easily stretched).

Techniques such as fully lining a bodice, in-set side seam pockets and being patient while your skirt hangs overnight, are all skills that will be built upon during your Jade Wrap Dress construction.

Princess seams and dart shaping are also techniques that are included, as well as optional top-stitching.

Sizing

The Jade Wrap Dress includes both the Original and Curve size ranges. The Original includes sizes 6-24 with A to D cup bodices, and the Curve includes sizes 16 to 34 with C to F cup bodices.

Plus, Extra Finished Garment Measurements included…

If you’re worried about choosing a size, I’ve also included a whole bunch of additional Finished Garment Measurements, from the standard bust, waist and hips to armscye circumference and back width.

Simply compare these measurements to a similar garment you already like the fit of (or one you know you’d like to alter) and you’ll be surprised at how much of the hard stuff is already done.

You can read about the new sizing here.

Fabric Options

Jade is suitable for mid-weight woven fabrics with some drape.

Linen, chambray and denim are lovely and easy to work with. Broidery anglaise, seersucker, jacquard, tencel and sateen also work very well for summery Jade dresses.

Mid-weight wool, suitings, flannels and pinwale cord also make an excellent heavier weight garment for cooler climes.

Choose lightweight linings such as lawn and voile, or use the same fabric as the main garment if using a lighter weight cloth. Synthetic linings can also be used.

Annabel’s Jade Dress is made from a mid-weight linen with a loose weave, making it swing and drape beautifully. Jen’s Jade Dress is made from a light-weight denim with plenty of drape, and is also shown paired with a Gable Top.

Free Skirt Expansion Pack

You can now turn your Jade Wrap Dress into an easy, breezy wrap skirt with the free skirt expansion pack. Download your skirt pattern expansion and instructions here.

Tutorials

Meet the Models

Annabel – Curve, Camel coloured Linen

Annabel is wearing a 24C Curve Jade Dress. The waist is graded out to a 26 along with the hip.

The front bottom armscye was scooped out approximately 1cm (3/8″) and the hemline on the skirt was shortened by approximately 5cm (2″) to account for Annabel’s slightly shorter height. No other adjustments were made.

High Bust: 119cm / 46 7/8″
Full Bust: 124cm / 48 7/8″
Waist: 114cm / 44 7/8″
Hip: 140cm / 55 1/8″
Height: 164cm / 5′ 4 ½”

Jen – Original, dark blue denim

Jen wears a 10C Original Jade dress. No other adjustments were made to the pattern.

High Bust: 84cm / 33 1/8″
Full Bust: 89cm / 35″
Waist: 73.5cm / 29″
Hip: 99.5cm / 39 1/8″
Height: 170cm / 5′ 7′

The Dulcie Pinafore

Designed with autumn layers in mind, Dulcie brings 60s charm to a structured pinafore dress.

New Extended Size Range – A to F cups in sizes 6 to 34!
Up to hip 159.5cm or 62 3/4″

Check out the new Size Guide Info here.

The Details

Dulcie is a structured, button-down pinafore dress with a square neckline and semi-fitted A-line skirt with square in-set pockets.

Princess seams provide shaping through the bodice for a smooth fit over the bust and back, and deep roomy pockets carry all of your daily essentials.

The bodice is fully lined for a clean inside finish, and optional top-stitching in key areas can add a modern element to an otherwise 60s mod design.

Wear Dulcie over light-weight blouses and shirts or fitted knit tops, for a warm layered dress. If you’re heading into the warmer months however, and don’t want to be wearing additional layers, Dulcie has plenty of coverage and is able to be worn on its own as a sleeveless summer dress.

Dulcie works perfectly paired with any of the JLH knit top patterns (Dulcie is styled here with a Gable Top, but Ostara, Bronte and Vielle would also look lovely) as well as the Aisling Blouse.

Throw on a cardigan and a pair of gumboots for a stroll, or layer with a shirt and add heels for the office.

New Sizing

With the addition of the extended size range, all JLH patterns have had a slight measurement makeover to ensure everything is cohesive.

You can find the new sizing information here, including how to choose your cup size. Make sure you re-measure yourself, then compare these to the new sizing tables.

The Dulcie Pinafore can be purchased in both the Original and Curve sizes individually, or in an economical bundle option where you can access both size ranges, from 6 to 34 with cups A to F.

You can find out a bit more about the new JLH Curve block and patterns here.

Multiple Bust Cups – A to F

If you were ever worried about performing FBAs on princess seams, worry no more…

Dulcie includes pattern pieces for A to F cups, so that you’ll no longer need to make additional bust adjustments for the perfect fit.

Included in the instructions are a full set of Finished Garment Measurements, as well as detailed instructions on choosing the right size for your unique shape.

Skill Level

Dulcie is a perfect project for intermediate seamstresses or confident beginners looking to up-skill.

Tutorials

Several tutorials will cover some of the trickier steps in the coming weeks…

Fabric Options

The Dulcie Pinafore is best suited to mid-weight fabrics with some structure. Denim, corduroy, wool, suitings, tweeds and mammoth flannel will make a great Dulcie Pinafore.

For the bodice lining, look for light-weight woven fabrics such as cotton lawn or voile to help reduce seam allowance bulk.

Note: if you are using a bulky/thick fabric, you may want to cut your second waistband (the one that will sit on the inside of the dress) in a lighter weight fabric to reduce bulky seams.

Meet the Models

Stacey – Denim Dulcie

Stacey is wearing a 20D Curve Dulcie Bodice. The waist has a half grade between the 20 and 22 then back to an 18 in the hip. No other pattern adjustments were made for Stacey, other than leaving off the bottom 2 buttons for personal preference.

Stacey has a difference of 8cm between her HB and FB, which put her closest to a D cup (which is 7.5cm). She is also 1.5cm smaller than the straight 20D full bust, but after trying on the toile, we decided to keep the circumference of the 20D as is, to allow for slightly thicker layers to be worn underneath.

High Bust: 107cm / 42 1/8″

Full Bust: 115cm / 45 1/4″

Waist: 99cm / 39″

Hip: 119cm / 46 7/8″

Height: 168cm / 5″ 6′

Jen – Red wool herringbone Dulcie

Jen wears a 10D Original Dulcie bodice, grading out to a 12 at the waist with a half grade at the hip between a 10 and 12. No other adjustments were made to the pattern.

High Bust: 84cm / 33 1/8″

Full Bust: 91.5cm / 36″

Waist: 76cm / 30″

Hip: 101cm / 39 3/4″

Height: 170cm / 5″ 7′

The Bastion Culottes

The Bastion Culottes combine everything we love about 1940s sailor pants, 1930s beach pyjamas and the modern A-line skirt.

New Extended Size Range – now in sizes 6 to 34!
Up to hip 159.5cm or 62 3/4″

Check out the new Size Guide Info here.

The Details

Heading straight into your favourite summer or winter wardrobe rotation, the Bastion Culottes are secret trousers masquerading as a skirt.

Bastion features a sailor-style front button opening with deep, roomy pockets cleverly integrated into the waistline.

Gently fitted at the natural waist, the legs drape effortlessly down over the hips in a breezy flared silhouette.

With two length options, falling to mid calf or above the knee, wear Bastion with fitted knit tops or loose button up blouses tucked in or tied at the waist. Throw a cropped cardigan on for cooler climes.

Bastion has been styled here with the Gable Top, the Hunter Tank and the Aisling Blouse.

Choose lighter weight linens and chambray for summer, or go for snuggly wool suitings and flannel for the perfect winter garment.

Skill Level

Bastion is a fun sew, with interesting construction techniques. If you’re a confident beginner seamstress and love the look of Bastion, you will enjoy the challenge. Buttonholes and keeping track of important notches are the key skills required.

Of course, advanced seamstresses will also enjoy the construction ad will have a lovely pair of pants in a day or so.

Fabric Options

The Bastion Culottes work well in light to mid-weight fabrics with some drape for both summer and winter options.

Linen, chambray, poplin and voile are perfect for summer. Look for light to mid-weight denims, pinwale (baby) cord, wool blends and flannel for winter.

Sizing and Fit

Bastion sits at the natural waist, so choose your size based on this measurement – the smallest part of your torso, usually above your belly button.

Bastion then falls gently out over the hips in a fit’n’flare style silhouette, meaning the hips are free in the finished garment.

The crotch height is designed to sit at approximately the height of regular, loosely fitting wide leg pants, but an additional lengthen/shorten line has been included to make adjusting this height easy and stress-free.

Bastion now comes in both the Original and Curve sizes individually, or in an economical bundle option where you can access both size ranges, from 6 to 34. You can find the new sizing information here, including how to choose your cup size.

Bastion is drafted for an average height of 170cm or 5’6″.

Meet the Models

Tatenda – Curve

Tatenda wears Bastion in a straight size 28 in view 1 (the longer style). Although Tatenda is shorter than what the pattern is drafted for, no adjustment in length was made.

Waist: 117cm / 46″

Hip: 145cm / 57 1/8″

Height: 157cm / 5’2″

Jen – Original

Jen wears a size 12 pair of Bastion Culottes, no other alterations were made to the pattern.

Waist: 76cm / 30″

Hip: 101cm / 39 3/4″

Height: 170cm / 5″ 7′

The Gable Bundle

If you fancy making yourself a Gable Top AND a Gable Dress, then this is the bundle for you. It includes both the original Gable Top as well as the all new Gable Dress Expansion Pack.

Normally $14.50 separately, you can purchase them together for just $14.

Please Note: The Gable Dress is not currently available in the updated size range, but will be available early 2022.

The updated Gable Top is now included with this listing.

The Gable Top

With a classic 50s-inspired slash neckline, a long-line body for extra comfort and three different sleeve options, The Gable Top will become your new favourite go-to knit top pattern.

Made with comfy stretch knits, Gable is a quick and easy sew that doesn’t use much fabric and turns out perfectly every time.

The Gable Dress – Expansion Pack

Turn your Gable Top into the most comfortable and elegant dress in your wardrobe…

With pleated and gathered skirt options, the Gable Dress Expansion Pack includes new bodice, pocket and skirt pattern pieces — use any of your three original Gable Top Sleeve patterns (or this tutorial for bracelet or 3/4 length sleeves) and you’ll have tops and dresses sorted from spring to winter.

Keeping the original classic 50s-inspired slash neckline and comfortable knit fabric construction, The Gable Dress is the perfect quick make.

Designed for confident beginners through to advanced seamstresses.

The Ivy Pinafore

Classic lines meet everyday comfort when the Ivy Pinafore is in town. Designed to be layered with your favourite collared shirts and fitted knit tops, Ivy can be worn year-round with limitless possibilities.

New Extended Size Range – A to F cups in sizes 6 to 34!
Up to hip 159.5cm or 62 3/4″

Check out the new Size Guide Info here.

The Details

With two completely different silhouettes — an A-line style tent dress and a slim-fit variation — Ivy transforms the everyday overall into a feminine and comfy garment with an option for everyone.

Button-down straps can be functional or stitched in place and top stitching can add a subtle or contrasting detail.

Fully lined and with pockets to boot, Ivy is a sturdy little number that is just as at home relaxing on the couch as it is kicking leaves and splashing in puddles. Team Ivy with boots for coffee on the weekend, wellies for digging in the garden or slippers for some fireside knitting action.

Sizing

The Ivy Pinafore now comes in both the Original and Curve sizes individually, or in an economical bundle option where you can access both size ranges together, from 6 to 34 with cups A to F. You can find the new sizing information here, including how to choose your cup size.

Ivy is drafted for an average height of 170cm or 5’7″

Multiple Bust Cups

Ivy now includes cup sizes A to F, so you’ll no longer need to make additional bust adjustments for the perfect fit.

Included in the instructions are a full set of Finished Garment Measurements, as well as detailed instructions on choosing the right size for your unique shape.

Skill Level

Designed for confident beginners through to advanced seamstresses. Learn techniques like inserting darts, top-stitching and how to fully line a garment.

Fabric Options

Make Ivy in casual denim or cosy corduroys and wools. Line with light-weight woven fabrics like cottons or anti-static linings (and if you don’t want to fully line your Ivy, check out the tutorial below on how to make an Unlined Ivy).

View 1 would also look gorgeous in floatier fabrics like silks, rayons and even sateen for a glam night out (just add a sparkly yoke, dramatic winged eyeliner and a beehive!).

Tutorials

Meet the Models

Tatenda – Curve

Tatenda is wearing a 24E Ivy Pinafore graded to a 26 waist+hip for V1 and a 28 waist+hip for V2. The hem has been shortened on both views by approximately 8cm to account for Tatenda being shorter than the 170cm (5’7″) height Ivy is designed for.

High Bust: 120cm / 47 1/4″

Full Bust: 130cm / 51 1/4″

Waist: 117cm / 46″

Hip: 145cm / 57 1/8″

Height: 157cm / 5’2″

Jen – Original

Jen wears a straight 10C Ivy Pinafore. No other adjustments were made to the pattern.

High Bust: 84cm / 33 1/8″

Full Bust: 89cm / 35″

Waist: 73.5cm / 29″

Hip: 101cm / 39 3/4″

Height: 170cm / 5″ 7′