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12/16/2012

I've been sewing for myself!


It is that time of year when client shirt orders have been stitched and sent...and I have time to indulge by sewing some new things for myself.  After a significant weight loss over the past several months, I still have some pattern-tweaking to do, but I am so happy that I've managed to sew several very wearable casual tops for myself, including this one!

Most are quite simple and not "blog-worthy", but I thought you might like to see this one. I started with a basic jewel neck pull-over, and added a self-drafted "Split Cowl Collar".  The fabric is an ancient piece from my stash...a soft stretchy knit with a suede-like nap.  I am not quite down to my normal (goal) weight, so the drag-lines you see come from my attempts to make a larger top look a little better on a smaller form.

Here is a close-up of the Collar. If you would like me to write a Tutorial and show how to make and apply a Split Cowl Collar to any basic pull-over knit top, let me know in "comments"...because I plan to make at least one more of this style and can take photos along the way if there is enough interest.





107 comments:

  1. Anonymous7:46 AM

    What a lovely top. Yes I would really appreciate a tutorial for the collar as I have just the right TNT to do it credit....Joan

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  2. Interest! Would it also be possible to indicate how to make the cowl a little smaller if anyone ( like me) has a short neck?

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  3. Oh, how very cool! Yes, I'd LOVE to see the step-by-step how-to!

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  4. Beautiful top. I love the split collar!

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  5. Anonymous8:24 AM

    Yes please, I love to make variations to a plain knit top. Ann_B

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  6. Anonymous8:37 AM

    "If you want a tutorial about how to draft and apply this Collar..." LOL. Is there any doubt? Heck, yeah, we want a tutorial. Such a beautiful, expensive-looking finish. It's lovely, Pam. -Karla

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  7. Absolutely!! I would love to see a tutorial. I have been trying to figure out just how to do a cowl neck on tops for myself, so I would appreciate anything other than just a basic neckline!

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  8. Please please make a tute for this collar...I love this! It looks so cozy, especially in that colour.

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  9. Hello Sunny Optimist, yes the collar can be made in most any width...I'll explain ;)

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  10. A tutorial would be great. This is really nice.

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  11. I would LOVE, LOVE, LOVE a tute on this collar. It's really beautiful!

    Thanks!

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  12. Stephanie in MD8:53 AM

    It's lovely Pam. I would love to see a tutorial also.

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  13. Yes! I would like a tute on the collar.

    Love the top and color, too.

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  14. I think it is unanimous for the tutorial for this. Lovely top and love the look of this knit. Suede like feels sounds luscious to me!

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  15. Congrats on the weight loss! And YES!!! I'd love a tute on the collar, it's a great looking collar.

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  16. Anonymous9:11 AM

    Love the top - both color and collar. A tutorial would be appreciated.
    Linda

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  17. Glad you are getting to sew for yourself. That top is so pretty. I, too, would love a tutorial. You are always so generous with us! thank you!

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  18. Yes, please! Love it, Pam!

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  19. Anonymous9:32 AM

    Oh yes. I'd love a tutorial on thsi collar. The color is beautiful.

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  20. Yes please!....love this!

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  21. Love a comfy stretch top, and this collar adds a touch of class to an otherwise plain top. Would love to learn how to draft it! Thanks for your generosity!

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  22. Congratulations on your weight loss. I love your new top and would really appreciate a tutorial,

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  23. I always enjoy your garments, they are so beautifully sewn and stylish.

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  24. You have such talent with details! This is lovely and I'll add my name to the list who would appreciate a tutorial!

    Lynda

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  25. Congrats on the weight loss! And congrats on sewing for yourself! What a great top!!

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  26. Yes, please! I love the color you chose for yours.

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  27. Very cute and yes, I would love to see a tutorial on your collar!

    Teri

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  28. LindaC11:28 AM

    I love the color of your top and would really like to see a tutorial on how to make your collar. Thanks so much for offering it up!

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  29. Anonymous11:58 AM

    Lovely top. What fabric did you use? Tutorial-please, yes and thanks.

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  30. Would love a tutorial - love the collar - I'm always looking for a new neckline for my TNT T.
    Thanks.

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  31. I agree with everyone else: this is a lovely top! The split collar is beautiful, and I'd love to know how to create one.

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  32. Pam your top is very pretty! I like that collar. I would be interested in a tutorial. Congratulations on your weight loss. Thank you for your kind generosity! Virginia

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  33. Please, please, please for the tutorial. Thank you in advance!

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  34. Oh, yes, Pam! I would love to see a tutorial! Thank you!

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  35. Absolutely a knock-out. I'd love a tutorial. Fantastic collar - I dream of being able to execute perfection like this. I love it - Other Pam.

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  36. Tutorial,yes please

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  37. Love the collar you added to the top! And it's a wonderful color too!

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  38. I'm not sure my previous comment went through. In case it didn't--I'd love to see a tutorial on that gorgeous collar. I'd also be interested in knowing how to adapt it for a shirt with a slightly more open neck, since I look better if I don't have too much rising up on my short neck. I'm glad you're having time to sew for yourself. Your shirt is gorgeous :-)

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  39. Hi flowergarden129, I will show you how the collar can be applied to any depth or width of neckline, and how the collar can be made in a variety of widths.....it is an extremely versatile technique.

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  40. Thanks for all the nice comments, ladies! Truly appreciated :)

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  41. PLEASE do a tutorial for the collar. I have a long neck and this would be a wonderful twist on an old pattern.

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  42. Yes absolutely...I will write the tutorial and take pics as I make another of these tops early this week. I'll be showing you some easy variations, too :)

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  43. Would love to have a peek at how you constructed this beautiful top, and easy variations would be an added bonus! Thanks for taking the time to share with us all...J

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  44. I am looking forward to your tutorial on this collar, and variations. I really like it!

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  45. Just waking up in Australia and adding a resounding "yes please" to your tutorial offer overnight :) its a lovely neckline Pam and your tutorials are the best!

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  46. The collar on that top is great. Congratulations on the weight loss.

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  47. Pam, congratulations on your weight loss! The top is great and I would really be grateful for a tutorial

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  48. Pam, congratulations on your weight loss! I'd love a tutorial for that great collar design. Thanks so much

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  49. Yes please! It's a beautiful addition to any plain knit shirt.

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  50. tutorial? yes, please! ...and thank you!!!!

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  51. Anonymous4:44 PM

    Hello Pam,
    I had bought 2 of these sweaters at a popular dress shop a couple years ago.. Then I gained weight due to medication & could no longer wear them. They were still like new. After searching the house 3 or 4 times & couldn't find them.I decided I've got to find a pattern to make my own.
    I would love for you to make us a tutorial for the neckline. You are so generous with your knowledge Thanking you in advance.
    Barb G.

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  52. Yes! Another vote for Yes!! Thank you for thinking of us. :o)

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  53. Anonymous4:52 PM

    Yes, would love to see a tutorial on how to make the collar. I think it is very flattering and perfect for the colder weather.

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  54. Cynthia5:14 PM

    Pam: the split collar is beautiful! A tutorial would be most appreciated! And congratulations on your weight loss!

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  55. Thanks so much for sharing this with us!!

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  56. Love love the collar.
    From someone who needs to loose a lot of lbs., howdya do it? Good for you!

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  57. Anonymous5:43 PM

    This is beautiful and just what I'd love to have. Please make the tutorial! Thank you!
    - Louise

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  58. Anonymous5:45 PM

    Oh, Pam, that is stunning! Please teach us how to make that. Beckye

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  59. Anonymous5:45 PM

    Oh, Pam, that is stunning! Please teach us how to make that. Beckye

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  60. Wanda6:06 PM

    Pam - the top with cowl split collar is great would love a tute

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  61. Anonymous7:36 PM

    Beautiful! We all would like to see!

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  62. Anonymous8:00 PM

    What a beautiful top--that neckline looks cozy and elegant. I'd love to learn how to make it. Elle

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  63. Very classy collar! It would be attractive (and warm) on a coat as well. It's nice to see you posting on sewing something for yourself :) I'd love to see a tutorial, I love them al!

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  64. Add me to the yes, please tut. Gorgeous top and color. I'm glad to read that it's easily adaptable to a more open neck as that is also my preference

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  65. Congrats on the weight loss!! I lost almost half of myself this past year....90 pounds. I love your blog and am dying to get back to sewing for myself. I can use a tutorial on this collar....and anything else you want to "tute" about!! I love your blog!!

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  66. nancy9:50 PM

    just made a robe using your cowl collar instructions and love it. The info from the purchased pattern would have made the collar huge. I keep a "Pam" folder for all your wonderful tips. Please 'split a cowl' for us.

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  67. Marilyn10:03 PM

    Love the collar. Yes, for a tutorial.

    Marilyn

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  68. Nice! I like that it doesn't look tight on the neck.

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  69. Such a flattering style! I'd love to give a collar like this a try. I'll look forward to your tutorial. Thank you for sharing!!!

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  70. anne k5:36 AM

    Just spent most of the weekend reading your blog. Holy Cow, lady! Not only talented, but so incredibly generous -- thank you so-o-o much!

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  71. I love this collar! I bet it frames your face nicely. Yes, I would love to see a tutorial on this collar.

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  72. Hi Judy, about my weight loss...

    After my thyroid was removed about 1.5 years ago, I gained 50 pounds (!!!).
    I was devastated. So while I waited for the thyroid medicine to start working, I drastically changed the way I was eating. 2 very small meals during the day (like only 2 cartons of 100-call yogurt), and then a normal dinner without bread, potatoes, or anything starchy. And the biggest factor in my weight-loss I think were these 2 things-- moderate exercise, and NO snacks after dinner AT ALL.

    So what the "experts" say about weight-loss really did work for me..."Eat LESS and Move MORE"

    ...giving up the night-time snack was very very difficult ;)

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  73. Anne K....wow, thanks for the generous compliment, you made my day!

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  74. Anonymous9:47 AM

    yes, please do a tutorial for the split cowl collar. It looks lovely, cosy, and a little dressier than a standard cowl neck. Congratulations on your weight loss. I am working toward my goal weight and am about 40% of the way there. It has been a lifelong challenge, but I am doing far better now than when I was younger. You are in good company with others determined to make progress!

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  75. Congratulations on the weight loss. I would lOVE to see a tutorial on the split collar. Thanks!

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  76. Yes, yes and yes! This is so classy looking (and the color is gorgeous)! What pattern do we start with...I'm slow and need the head start.

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  77. Hi Shayla...any knit pull-over style..even a simple t-shirt type top...which is what I started with for this top (the basic t-shirt from Ottobre Woman...but any pullover top will work). It really is a very, very, easy collar to construct and use in countless ways :)

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  78. That is a wonderful color and I like the split collar as well. I would love a tutorial.

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  79. So many knit tops either have an utterly boring and unflattering neckline or are far too fussy. I love this one and the asymmetry will be flattering to many. If you have time to make a tyre I would very much appreciate it; I already use your tips in men's clothing and they are very helpful.

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  80. Tutorial please! You're such a fabulous teacher.

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  81. Tutorial Please! I love that collar and have just started to do a lot of knit sewing. Thanks for the offer!

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  82. You sew it yourself? Really!!! You are a fantastically talented person, indeed! I've spent a lot of time reading your post. You are AMAZING! :)

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  83. M Kirby10:48 AM

    The shirt and collar are beautiful (and you're looking good to fit this! Congratulations.) I often wear scarves to dress up a crew neck--this is better. Hmmm...and I'll bet the ends could be extended and loosely tied. Your constant outside-the-box thinking has inspired me again.

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  84. Love the collar, I, too would like to know "how-to". Let me thank you for your web site. I have learned so much!Can't tell you how helpful pictures are to understanding your tips . thanks again

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  85. Yes, yes, yes!!! Absolutely write us a tutorial if you're willing. I'd love it!!

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  86. I doubt that you need more encouragement, but I'll go ahead and add my request for the tutorial. It's a lovely, slightly different, take on a collar. You do so many of these intersting yet still subtle details in your work... you are such a creative designer!

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  87. Does a fish like water? Your tutorials are always great! Please indulge us when you have the time.
    And may you and yours have a wonderful holiday too. : )

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  88. This is a great looking top, Pam, and I would love to see a tute on your collar construction.

    Congrats on the weight loss and I hope that whole thyroid thing is now under control for you. I've known people with thyroid issues and it amazes me how seriously it affects one's weight.

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  89. Anonymous7:46 PM

    I have been looking at blogs today and this is the first think I have sen that I really like. I would love a tutorial on how it is/was done!

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  90. That pullover looks absolutely gorgeous with the split cowl collar! Personally I would love it if you made a tutorial to go along as well. Your tutorials are always wonderful and Inspiring!

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  91. I love the split collar and would love to know how to draft one!
    Thanks for all that you share.

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  92. YES, tutorial please.

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  93. What a gorgeous top in a gorgeous color! You are so creative and write very clear tutorials. I am looking forward to the for the split cowl collar. Congratulations on the weight loss -- keep going! I bet that you feel better, also.

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  94. Anonymous5:58 PM

    I would really appreciate the tutorial!! Thanks. Blessings!

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  95. Anonymous12:18 AM

    Very nice. A very creative look.

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  96. Beautiful work, a tutorial would be lovely!

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  97. Anonymous1:07 PM

    The collar is beautiful. I would love to see a tutorial on this collar.

    Sarah

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  98. Beautiful as always, Pam. I've nominated you for a Lovely Blogger award. Happy Holidays to you and yours,
    Cennetta

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  99. Anonymous8:09 PM

    I too would love to have this tutorial and make up this lovely top!!Thanks in advance. Elaine

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  100. Tutorial? Yes, please!!!

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  101. Anonymous12:39 PM

    Everyone has said it - get yourself and DH well. We can wait.........Lydia (This will be posted as Anon.)

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  102. Charlotte4:10 AM

    I too would love to see a tutorial on this lovely collar.

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  103. Anonymous5:28 PM

    I am making a fleece hoodie out of micro-fleece, but don't want the hood, I would like a cowel neck. Do you think this pattern would work for micro-fleece or would it be too thick?

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  104. Yes! it would look great in Micro-fleece...I've made some tops like this in the past from micro-fleece.

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  105. "Jewel Neck", does this mean a high collar? Thanks!

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  106. Hi Elaine, "jewel" is a term for a certain depth of a neckline. It is higher than a "scoop", lower than a "crew".

    I show examples of patterns with jewel necklines on the post where I wrote the tutorial. Here is the link--

    SPLIT COWL COLLAR TUTORIAL

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