My most made pattern over the years is the Tilly & the Buttons Agnes Jersey Top. I love that it is a great basic and works for layering but has so many options too. It really is the mark of a great pattern when you want to make it over and over again.
My Most Recent
I have just finished this basic long sleeved Agnes top in organic cotton Lycra from Made my Wardrobe. I originally cut this out way back in November as I wanted comfy layers for warmth. But I just didn’t find the time to sew it up, even though it is really quite a quick sew. The fabric is perfect for this and feels great. I’m actually wearing it under my Tilly & the Buttons Billie today.
My First Agnes
The very first one I made was this spotty little number with the puffy sleeves. This is a cotton jersey and doesn’t contain any Lycra. Because of this it doesn’t really have enough stretch for a style that has negative ease.
Negative ease means that the finished garment measurements are smaller than the body measurements so that the fabric needs to stretch to fit around the body.
I haven’t worn this one for a while, but it used to be in regular rotation in my wardrobe. I love the spotty print on the fabric.
Most Made Pattern Version – Basics
I have made the basic long sleeved version in a number of different colours/prints. I really like that the scoop neck isn’t visible if I wear it under a lot of my dresses.
The Agnes Dress Hacks
With a few simple additions the Agnes top can easily be hacked into a dress. I’ve made two different dress hacks from this pattern.
For the first I added a band at the underbust and then added a gathered rectangle skirt. I made this one organic cotton Lycra again and it is definitely secret pyjamas. If you see me wearing this know it is a day that I am especially craving comfort!
The second dress I made I just extended the side seams to create a wiggle dress. I think I used the Patterns for Pirates Wiggle Dress Patterns as a template for the shape. This one was made from an amazing scuba fabric and I love that the gathered sleeves help to balance out the width of my hips in this bodycon dress. Careful symmetrical pattern placement was key for a print this bold and detailed.
I have the Tilly and the Buttons Agnes Pattern in Stock at the Sale price of £10 (originally £14.50). Send me an email alison@bagladybird.com to order (P&P is £2).
Have you’ve got a pattern you’ve made over and over? I’d love to hear about it in the comments.
Love & Stitches
Alison xx
PS. I’m now taking on new One to One Students at my studio in Bawtry. Click here to find out more.
