PJ top

I did finish the Villi Viikinki PJ top from Ottobre magazine yesterday evening.  I must say I am still enjoying my sewing experience with Ottobre!!  In fact, I made up my mind that I want to subscribe.  I told the hubby about that yesterday and he just looked at me and said "Uh, huh."  I must admit that he is a little more receptive to each sewing adventure I go into as he sees that I follow through.  Some years ago I used to want all of these different sewing items, but I would never use them, and they would simply amass in my sewing closet.  Well, no more!

This top was rated "easy," though it did take some time to make.  I didn't learn any new techniques while sewing this, but I did figure out how to sew raglan sleeves.  Everything I looked up on sewing this type of sleeve said that they were easy and simple for a beginner.  Right!  I tend to have issues with sleeves, and it took me a minute to sort out how to sew them.  In the end, they came together beautifully, and here is the finished product:

Solid brown fabric: Cotton interlock knit (fabric.com)
Print fabric: Lil' Zoo Cotton interlock knit (Joanns)

I did much better on this neckline binding as well.  Usually I have problems with stretching the band to fit the neckline, but this time it all worked.  I followed the Ottobre instructions to a "T" and alternated the use of my serger and sewing machine.  I really like how clean the insides of the shirt look as well.  I am beginning to get better at having a presentable garment on the inside as well.

I stuck with size 92cm for my son, and didn't make any adjustments.  After seeing my son in the shirt, though, I will have to add some length to the sleeves the next time.  I really thought it would be an ok length when I attached the sleeve cuffs, but they still came up a little short.  It's one of those things I notice, but is perfectly fine for him!

Also, I didn't have a twin needle attachment, so I had to make do in that department.  I tried to fake it as best I can, but I am still a little undecided about how the topstitching for the neckline came out.  I like one stitched line better than two, but I think that is only because the stitching is so noticeable.  

Other than those things, I am a happy camper.

Oh, and my son is a happy camper too!...

I will be making the PJ Long John pants to match his top and boxer briefs this weekend, so I hope it goes off without a hitch.  

Thank you to all of the people that left sewing tips that changed their sewing life!  I believe we can all learn from each other because what we don't know can hurt us.  If you think of a great sewing tip you would like to share, please do so here.  You never know, you might read a tip that can help you in your sewing journey as well!

Stay sew-filled!