Ah bliss.... in contrast to the tussle with the not-at-all-easy 'Easy' Burda top in the last post, Butterick 5561 is a dream. I bought this pattern some time ago but had never tried it. It's definitely worth a try.
Envelope Description: Loose fitting tops have front neckline gathers, raglan sleeves with shoulder darts and deep front pleat. I made view A with short sleeves with pleats.
I plan to wear it with narrow black trousers rather than a skirt but they were in the wash for photo time.
I made a 16 but would try a smaller size next time as it is a very roomy top.
It takes 1.3 m of 150cm fabric. I've used a silk charmeuse that was a find on half price sale at Textile Traders Balcatta.
Particular likes: It's very easy and quick to make and needs next to no fitting. And the sleeves are very cute with an interesting tuck feature at the hem.
Dislikes: As a matter of pattern drafting the front gathering is clunky. You make the large fold then put the gathering stitches through the 3 layers. So you end up with a very thick gathered piece. I had to catch stitch under the fold where you can't see the stitches, to get it to lie flat.
My one other reservation was that I maybe didn't do justice to the fabric. The back looks so nice. The pattern is probably best for plain fabrics or the fold and gathering get a bit lost.
I'll definitely be giving this pattern another outing.
