OhSewCrafty Blog

The pattern was excellent and error free, though I find the finishing instructions ambiguous.  I finally determined that reverse crochet chain = reverse single crochet = crab stitch, or so I suppose.  After a lot of frustration with the hook, I finally found good instructions at Knitty.  As for mods, I added 1/2″ of length to the stockinette portion.  When picking up stitches for the bodice, I started at the right side, doing a cable cast-on across the back opening, so I was ready to start the round without cutting and moving the yarn.   For the hem, I left the last row on the needle, and sewed down the live loops on the inside, carefully splitting the garment stitches to minimize the hem’s appearance on the outside.  I joined the shoulders with a 3 needle bind off, a great way to get a neat seam with lace.  

As for the yarn, I love it.  Sonata isn’t anything fancy but rather nice, a durable mercerized cotton with cable construction, a pleasant hand and slight sheen.  Perfect for a summer top in my opinion, lightweight and easy care. I used slightly less than 7 balls, about 150 yds less than pattern requirements.

There is minimal negative ease at the bust, and I’m quite pleased with the fit.  It’s cool for the summer heat and easy to wear.  I adore the style, modern lace but somewhat victorian with the back bow.  The bow is small enough it causes no discomfort when sitting in a chair, thankfully!