//THE WARDROBE PROJECT//

The pattern comes in two sleeve lengths (long and short) and two collar options (a rounded collar and a pointed collar).It has pleats on the shoulders, a back yoke, a center back pleat, and an overall flowy fit, which is flattering in almost every shape.

I sewed Variation 1(long sleeved version), but used the collar from Variation 2(pointed collar).

I cut a size 8/12 for the bust and graded up to a size 10/14 for the waist and hips. For reference my measurements are B:90cm,W:76cm,H99cm.

The fit is perfect, roomy, without the potato-sack effect. It makes you feel put together, without it being restrictive.

As always with By Hand London patterns, the drafting is exceptional and the instructions were really clear and easy to follow.

As for fabric, I used a viscose rayon for my version, which was a very smart choice, if I say so. Everything sewed really effortless and pressed really nicely. I used up 2 meters of fabric, 10 buttons and 4 small snaps for the sleeves.

*Disclaimer: I received this pattern from By Hand London patterns for free to test, but all opinions are my own. I sent feedback on the draft to the girls, which were included in the final pattern. I was not paid to test this pattern, and was given a free copy of the final pattern as compensation.*

photo from Coletterie

At the end of 2015, I came to a realisation. I used to be a person, who reads a lot. Ever since I was a little kid, I loved books. But the last couple of years, that seems to have change. Social media took over, and instead of reading a nice book at bedtime, I find myself browsing aimlessly through Instagram and other platforms. I realised that in 2015 I only started reading one book and I didn't even finish it. So in 2016 I want to change that. 

Hello lovely readers! I've been thinking about sewing patterns and my wardrobe lately. What makes a sewing pattern, a good pattern? On my opinion, one of the things that make a sewing pattern stand out is its diversity. Countless versions could be made out of this pattern and multiple fabrics would be appropriate to use. One such pattern I'm here to talk to you about today!

This is the newest pattern from Paprika patterns, the Opal Cardigan.


This pattern is really versatile! It has a dropped shoulder, three different hem lengths, two sleeve lengths and two different pockets, designed to fit both the shorter and longer versions. The front openings are finished with bands, as well as the sleeves, so no fussy buttonholes are needed!

You could use really any type of knit fabric you'd like and that will determine the overall look of your cardigan. Lisa has a blog post on the recommended fabrics for this pattern, as well as a 20% off from Gorgeous Fabrics on their sweater knits until March 15th with the code PARPIKA20.


For my version, I went with View C for the hem (the longer option) and View A for the sleeves (the longer option) and omitted the pockets, since I'm not really a fan. I cut a size B, without any modifications and the fit is perfect. For this one, I used a more drapey knit, to achieve a more relaxed look. I love the final look. I could throw this over anything and it would make for an interesting extra layer.

I can't recommend this pattern enough! The drafting is exceptional, the instructions are really clear and the possibilities are endless! I already have two more versions planned!

Happy February guys! So here goes January. We made our resolutions, we reflected on the passing year and we set our goals for the coming one. February is the month for all these resolutions and goals to start coming to action!

January for me was a really busy month, so now that things are starting to settle down, I look forward to some quiet time, to focus more on my sewing and knitting. Let's see what February has in stock for us, after all is my birthday month, so it has to be a good one!

What are your plans for this month?