MAGAM Challenge: March 2014 Completed Garment + Pattern Review

Here is my completed garment for March for the Make a Garment a Month Challenge. I actually finished it a couple of weeks ago but hadn't worn it until a few days ago.

Back View:

This is one of those patterns where you literally get a lot of bang for your buck. In addition to that, the fabric was a steal on clearance at Joann for $6/yard. There was just under 2 yards left. I have a scrap left I'm going to try to squeeze a tank or shell out of it. I hate to throw it away.

I actually used my twin needle for the very first time to hem the bottom and sleeves. I never used it before because I just couldn't be bothered to change the needle and set up an extra spool of thread. I'm kicking myself for not having done it sooner. I've used it twice since finishing this top. I'll show you those other projects very soon.

Here is my review for fellow sewers:

Simplicity Sew Simple A1523
Pattern Description:

Cowl-neck top

Pattern Sizing:

I cut a 14 for my muslin but went down a size for my final garment.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

At the risk of sounding arrogant I think it looked better. This is one of those instances where the pattern pic doesn't do it justice.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Yes the instructions are very straight-forward. This top goes together very quickly and easily.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

What's not to like? I especially like that the neckline is not too plunging which is often a problem with this style of top.

Fabric Used:

An ITY I got on clearance at Joann.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

the only adjustment needed was a sway back adjustment. I pinched out about at inch at the center back grading out to nothing at the side seam.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Yes. This will definitely be my go-to for a cowl-neck top. Definitely recommend it.

Conclusion:

This is a pattern I would have overlooked had I not seen MrsCharisma's review. So glad I picked it up.