Today I am participating in the pattern tour for the Ballard by Straight Stitch Designs! It's available exclusively at Indiesew right now and is a perfect addition to your fall wardrobe. I am so excited it is finally cooling down a bit here...just so I can wear this top!
The Ballard is super comfy, flattering and a quick sew. I chose to sew my version with a bit more of an open back by not overlapping the back as much as the pattern calls for when sewing...and it turned out perfect! I used a jersey knit from Girl Charlee for the main fabric and orange crocheted lace from fabric.com.
This is my second time testing for Straight Stitch Designs and I've really enjoyed both patterns. I typically prefer patterns with well lit photos and digital sewing stitches over illustrations. I'm a very visual person and at times I find illustrations to look flat or I have a hard time telling the right/wrong side of the fabrics. However, Kimberly does an amazing job on making her illustrations very clear and easy to follow. (I didn't even stop once to say 'wth is going on there!').
The pattern includes lengthening and shortening lines. I didn't adjust the pattern pieces for this top, as I am average height and the length was perfect. I'm planning on making a Ballard to wear with leggings and I will definitely make use of the lengthening lines. The pattern pieces are also nested nicely so you can adjust the pattern to fit you best. I ended up making a size 6, but cut the waistband as a size 8 because the crocheted lace wasn't as stretchy as most knits and the fit was excellent.
So are you in love with this top as much as I am?! Go pick up a copy for yourself, it's over at Indiesew until the end of the tour (November 2nd) and after that you'll be able to grab it at Kimberly's website, Straight Stitch Designs.
I have loved following along the pattern tour and seeing everyone's creations. I've added a yoga version Ballard to my sewing to-do list after seeing Amanda's version (of Turtle Birdies) and the sweater knit version posted by Indiesew yesterday is amazing! There are so many great versions so make sure to check them all out.
xoxo,
Mandalynn
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