Can I Sew It In One Hour

It’s getting to that time of year where time is a scarce commodity. I came across the Blomma Tank, a free pattern from Paradise Patterns, a few months ago and have been meaning to sew it up but things just kept popping up. I saw that other makers have said that it only takes a short time to sew. So, last weekend, I thought that I’d give myself an hour and I’ll see how far I get. For a laugh, I recorded my time. It was a surprise to me that I got as far as I did! I ended up making the whole thing in under two hours. So, no. I can’t sew it in one hour, but it was motivating to try!

The Blomma Tank is a core piece for the wardrobe. Great for layering in winter and just so comfortable on its own in summer. I didn’t toile the pattern as other makers had commented that the sizing was quite accurate. My sizing of 35-inch high-bust, 37-inch bust, and 33-inch waist sat between the size E and F in the B Cup. I decided to sew size F without any modifications. It is a close-fitting top so there is negative ease in the stretch fabric. I’ve used a bamboo stretch jersey which is very soft. I hadn’t realised that I needed bias binding, so I used the same fabric which was ok.

Knit fabric sewing is still unfamiliar to me. I think this has been the year where I’ve sewn the most with knits. I do love how comfortable wearing those knit fabric makes are so I’m going to persevere with it. You’ll see on my Blomma Tank that my neckband is a bit floppy which is showing my lack of skill. I deviated from the pattern instruction and attached the neckband and armhole bands with the overlocker as I’ve done in the past. I thought it would be fine but you can see that I don’t have the more sporty look as intended by the design of the pattern.

Back to the sewing challenge! I decided to start the Can I Sew It In One Hour hashtag (#CanISewItInOneHour) to keep myself motivated. I’m an over thinker and sometimes my need for perfection stops me from just giving something a go. It’s also that time of year when everyone is short on time and motivation so I thought it would be a fun way to connect with others who are feeling the same way. I’m excited to see what patterns others might suggest for me or what everyone will try. I hope to make it a safe space for anyone wanting to join in. It’s not a serious challenge with a hundred rules and there are no prizes apart from the joy of sewing. It’s a place for connection and support. I hope it inspires a lot of joyful sewing and laughter.

Thanks for reading and happy sewing! 

X Em