Itch to Stitch Nottingham Top Pattern Release

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It has been so long since I’ve been part of a pattern test, so when I saw the Itch to Stitch test announcement for the Nottingham Top* and Kennis, the designer, stating it was a 2 hour sew, I jumped on! I love testing for Itch to Stitch – the patterns are so well designed, the designer is always very organized and receptive to feedback, and the atmosphere in the testing groups are always very friendly. It’s a great way for me to get a selfish sew done without wasting too much fabric. And I love being able to use my editing skills to tweak patterns and instructions too!

The Itch to Stitch Nottingham* features a twisted knot in the front, and a relaxed fit bodice with three sleeve lengths – long, elbow, and butterfly. The size ranges from 00 – 20. The instructions show you how to lengthen and blend the pattern according to your measurements.

This top is perfect for really drapey knit fabric, such as rayon spandex, ITY, and double brushed polyester. I made two versions using up fabric from my stash (yay!). My first was a mystery polyester from JoAnn – I think it might be an ITY. It’s medium weight and has 75% horizontal stretch and 25% vertical stretch. Given the low vertical stretch, I could probably have done with lengthening it a little more (I added 1 inch length to both shirts).

For my second shirt, I used some Coral Rayon Spandex that I got forever ago from Sew So English. This one has 100% stretch in each direction and it’s my favorite! I think a solid, stripe, or very simple print is best for this pattern so that the knot stands out.

One thing to keep in mind – if you’re making the butterfly sleeve, be aware that your sleeve seam will show. So, you might not want to be lazy like me, and actually switch out your looper threads to something that will blend in with your fabric!

For my Butterfly sleeve I also opted not to hem it. I’ll re-evaluate that decision after I wash it, but for now, I think I like the light-weight look of the cut edge.

Here you can see how the seam shows in the butterfly sleeve.

The pattern was very quick to sew up. I actually made both of these shirts in one evening.

I think the Nottingham Top will be a great wardrobe staple, and so fun for summer! Run and grab yourself a copy while it’s on sale*!

And check out the round up of tester photos too!

… and reality!