Alex's Strata Top by Sew Liberated

Pattern: Strata Top by Sew Liberated
Materials: Pucker Linen/Rayon in Black
Size Made: 18
Modifications: I added 1.5" to the front hem

Let's talk about this textile delight. Working in the craft industry means whenever a new fabric/yarn/roving comes in the store my hands are on it before I can even think about it. If it feels good, I HAVE to have it. This Pucker Linen/Rayon has been gracing our shelves for a hot minute, which just means I've been visiting it daily for just as long. It's one of the most satisfying hand feels in the shop, in my humble opinion. Now I get to wear it on my body!



Since this fabric is too good, I decided to go ahead and make a muslin based off my bust measurement before starting in on the Linen/Rayon. I saw the finished measurements and was expecting this top to be a bit too roomy for my liking, but was pleasantly surprised by even just the muslin. I recommend following the pattern and making the suggested size based off your own measurements.



The instructions were written very clearly and concisely with simple illustrations demonstrating techniques, so I'd say this is a pretty accessible pattern for perhaps a not-so-new novice. Maybe not a first top, but easily a second. Attaching the neckband became a little hazy (thanks late night sewing!) but Sew Liberated offers a complete beginning to end tutorial on YouTube which made it a breeze.



One thing I found was that while the high low hem was super cute, it just didn't fit with my finished vision. A little flash of tummy here and there is cute, but this was just a bit too cropped. For my final version I retraced just the front of the pattern (as I liked where the back hem hit on my backside) and added 1.5" inches. I drafted a new front hem, and here it is! Easy peasy. As this pattern was written for a 5' 5" body and I'm at 5' 6" this wasn't a surprising adjustment in the making process.



The Pucker Linen/Rayon was just as much of a dream to work with as I had hoped. It wasn't too shifty, if not just a touch wobbly. A few extra pins helped me get everything where I wanted, but after a wash the fabric is SO forgiving of any sewing sins. I found when pressing the hems into place the fabric lost it's texture and even made the finished garment feel a bit larger than anticipated. I popped it in the wash and it was just as crinkly and fitted as it was on the bolt.

I can't wait to wear my new Strata top year round as it's flowy enough for the hottest summer days, but also gives off the crinkly Halloween witchy vibes I crave. I'll be making this one again, that's for sure!