Pattern Review – Merchant and Mills’ Top 64

After coveting them for a ridiculously long time, I purchased a couple of Merchant and Mills patterns. Beautifully presented and delivered in cardboard tubes, they’re supplied on card and in your nominated size.

These patterns are really beautiful. Classic designs, detail, packaging and presentation (not to mention my love of EVERYTHING on their website) all combine to create something that gives honour to the design, art and tradition of sewing. They even include a little hook that allows you to hang your pattern when in storage…

In continuing my love affair with the raglan sleeve, I chose Top No. 64 for its simplicity – something that Merchant & Mills patterns do beautifully. The fabric I chose was a firm-ish knit – ‘First Impressions’ (100% polyester) – and available in all stores (not online). Everything came together quickly and easily and the only major(ish) adjustment I made was to take in the top sleeve seam, from the curve of my shoulder down to the cuff, for a slimmer fit.

And just because it’s my personal preference, I shortened the sleeve length and hem length. There is a centre front and centre back seam which could easily be eliminated but I think it’s a detail worth keeping given how it works so perfectly with the overall design.

 

And the sneaky little pockets? Well they’re just ace as well as being handy too.

So I’m giving this pattern the big thumbs up. In fact, I’ll give it TWO big thumbs up. Swing back in the next couple of days and I’ll show you a pattern modification I made as well…