Finished Renfrew

Well that was easy.  There are literally 13 steps in this pattern and that includes all 3 neckline variations.  As mentioned, my brain struggled a bit with the cowl, but that is more my fault than Tasia. 

As mentioned, this knit is pretty stretchy.  It has a nice soft feel and it is actually fairly heavy.  I was wearing a black bra while sewing and I was impressed that you could barely tell in the white bricks.  I made the 12 as is, but I should go up a size. 

As mentioned, I had all but the bands done on Monday night.  Mr. Lina was already reading in bed and I came in wearing it, my first opportunity to see if it fit at all.  I did a little turn and he commented it looked really good from the back.  I think I see what he likes, I know there are some wrinkles there, but I look like I have a waist.  The comment was reiterated last night when he looked away from the video game for 10 seconds while respawning.  He also likes the print, probably more than I do. 

I like a little draping around the bust line, I like cowls (but not a fan of turtlenecks, I just look like a ski slope without well placed necklace to create a V).  But it drives me a little crazy that some look perfectly work appropriate until you lean forward.  Suddenly everyone can see right down the centre.  What's with that?  Now I do have the crazy eyes here (I was giggling and feeling silly taking pictures) but this top is cleavage proof.  Even pulling at the cowl, you don't see any more than you need to.

And even though it's cleavage proof, the negative ease is definitely showing there is cleavage to hide.

So, next version (and yes, there will be a next) I'll go up a size.  Maybe even grade to the 16 around the bust if it's not as stretchy as this fabric.  I like the 3/4 sleeve length, the top is long enough on me as is for jeans.  I think the shoulder seam is in about the right spot, so when I grade up I will try to keep that about where it is.  This version will be fine for casual days at work and I'll probably get a lot of weekend wear out of it.  I will be thinking about a work appropriate version for the cowl again.  I would also like some short sleeved versions in something more breathable, maybe with the other necklines for bowling. 

Well worth the pattern price.  If you have a T&T, I can see how you don't need Renfrew, but it's going to fill that T&T spot in my pattern collection.  And one last Tasia inspired shot.