Blue Striped Tunic

If you are new to my blog, I live 3 1/2 hours from the nearest fabric store or metro area.  Since moving to the middle-of -nowhere, OR last summer, I've pledged to use up my stash before ordering more fabric.  I can no longer just run into JoAnn's  when I want something and am learning to get creative with my boxes of hoarded fabric.  I found this little group at Crafting With Cathair that has pledged to De-stash in 2010....




I've had Simplicity 3964 in my stash for several months and was excited to finally make it! The pattern offers a cap sleeve or 3/4 sleeve option and 3 different lengths and optional belt. I chose the tunic length with 3/4 sleeves and also made the belt. The fabrics were a striped shirting cotton and a quilting cotton that I'd purchased last fall on clearance from Sew, Mama, Sew.

This is the most challenge top I have made.  I struggled with the square corners of the inset piece and have slight puckering there.  Thankfully, this top has small gathers along the bottom of the inset and yoke so it's not too noticible. It took me approx. 4 hours to cut & sew this top.  I do really like the style and tie closure in the back.  This top is lightweight and comfy and I'll definitely be wearing it this spring and summer.  

I don't own any leggings, so pulled some stretch knit from my stash and drew up a pattern for my cropped leggings.  A tutorial for these is in the works, so come back soon!