black floral shirred top: butterick 6930

Hey friends, happy Wednesday! And Happy New Year!!! This is my first post of 2024!! I hope the start of the new year is going well for you! I am slowly getting back too sewing after taking time to enjoy the holidays and today I’m sharing a new top! I thought this top was so cute with I saw it. I immediately put it in my “make” pile! I loved the sleeves and peplum and thought the shirring was perfect for adding some shape! I’m excited to share about it so lets get into the details…

the details

Pattern Used: I used Butterick 6930 for this top.

Pattern Description: Pullover top, semi-fitted through bust, has faux wrap V-neckline, elastic waist, narrow hems, length and sleeve variations, and purchased bias facings. *description from Simplicity website

Pattern Sewing Level: This pattern level is rated Easy.

What size did you cut?: I cut the size 20 for this pattern.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes! The instructions were easy to follow. I didn’t have any issues with the illustrations. It was a good easy sew.

What did you like or dislike about the pattern? I LOVE the sleeves on this pattern. I also love the faux wrap. I find wrap garments flattering on me so I love anything with a wrap or a twist! I don’t have any dislikes. I also love the shirring details along the waist. I don’t do shirring a lot so it was fun to pull my elastic thread out for this project!

If you have have never done shirring before, it looks intimidating but it’s really easy. The steps to do shirring on fabric are below. If you need a visual, watch this quick reel I made for IG.

•wind a bobbin or two by hand with elastic thread. use all purpose thread for top needle.
•transfer shirring row markings to fabric and adjust machine stitch length. I like 4.0
•back stitch and stitch following your markings. back stitch at the end of your stitch. clip threads.
•after all rows of shirring are done, apply a lot of steam to them. this helps to shrink and draw the fabric together more.

fabric type and weight will determine how exaggerated the shirring will appear.

Did you make any pattern alterations: No, I did not make any adjustments to this pattern.

Where did you purchase the fabric(s)? My fabric is a rayon from Melanated Fabrics. It’s old and sold out now.