The Itch-to-Stitch Carmo Top - Pattern Review

Itch-to-Stitch released a new pattern recently - the Carmo Top - which I found out via their newsletter. When I saw the tester versions, I knew I was going to purchase the pattern and make one for myself at some point before the end of the Winter. But then I saw Megan's video on YouTube (Megan was a tester and I'm a subscriber to her Channel - check her out!), the pattern jumped at the top of the list!

The Pattern Features

Most of the Itch-to-Stitch patterns that I've been interested in are what I would call "basics with a twist" or "beyond basics". Be it an interesting detail or an out of the ordinary feature. This pattern is no exception. It has a V neck at the front and back which I love on me, a gorgeous "scarf" that wraps diagonally from one side, over one shoulder to the opposite side, long cuffs on the sleeves and a bottom band. The cuffs and the hem band mean no hemming necessary! Big win in my books.

Sizing

Like most of Kennis' patterns, the Carmo Top is available in sizes 00 to 40 which accommodates a bust up to 60" and hips up to 62". My measurements put me squarely in a size 18. Itch-to-Stitch patterns are designed for a rectangle body shape where the difference between the waist and hip measurements isn't significant. This works out wonderfully for me because I only have about a 7" difference - Kennis' patterns typically fit me right out of the packet with minimal adjustments. 

Fabric

The fabric recommendations for this pattern include jersey, French Terry and sweater knits with at least 20 to 30% stretch. You should look for knits with good recovery so with a little bit of Lycra so your top doesn't get stretched out of shape as you wear it.

I made my version with an incredibly soft and gorgeous bamboo French Terry from Prairie Love Knits. You can hear me talk about this fabric in my mini fabric haul video on YouTube. 

I had 2.5 meters of the fabric and used most of it for my Carmo. Because of the scarf, this pattern is a bit of a fabric hog and does require more than your typical long-sleeved sweater. The largest size does take about 3 yards of fabric.

Construction and Instructions

Like all Itch-to-Stitch patterns, the instructions for the Carmo Top are impeccable. They are very detailed and contain clear illustrations (as opposed to pictures which I find more difficult to understand at times). I do have to admit that the steps to attach the scarf to the top had me scratching my head a little bit - I just couldn't figure out how this would work. But I trusted the instructions and followed them to the letter and it worked perfectly... A little bit magical in fact!

I constructed the top on my regular sewing machine, using my serger for finishing the seams only. I usually do that when I sew patterns I haven't sewn before or when they are a little more complex. Avoids having to unpick serged seams which is really no fun.

Would I make this again?

I think I will! But I'd have to change things up a bit. I mean, this is a bit of a statement garment and I don't think I'd need multiple versions but Karina from Lifting Pins and Needles hacked this into a sleeveless top for warmer weather and I'm definitely interested in trying to do the same.

I could also have some fun with colour blocking - making the scarf, cuffs and hem band in a fun print but use a solid neutral for the body and the sleeves. This would also allow me to use up some shorter lengths of fabric.

As you might have figured out already, I love this pattern! If I can figure out how to copy Karina's version, I can definitely see this for the Summer as well.