{MADE} The Banksia Top by Megan Nielsen

We all need more tops, right? When I saw Megan Nielsen's Banksia pattern, I knew that I had to make one (or five hundred in all different colors)!! Oh, and I must tell you... I am in love with the length of these sleeves - want to talk about slimming, they are WONDERFUL!

If you have never sewn with Megan Nielsen patterns, you are definitely missing out! Each pattern comes in an adorable velcro-closure pattern sleeve with a booklet (yes, I said a booklet!!) of detailed instructions. The instructions are awesome, but WAIT... there's more. Included in the instruction pamphlet is a SLEW of different variations that you can make to the pattern to make it your own (that's what I chose to do), a place for notes and a place to document previous Banksia creations, complete with a space to keep a swatch of the fabric you used!   

Size Made: The measurement guide provided by Megan Nielsen is great! I used this and feel that I really achieved the look on the pattern.

Fabric: Well... this is a bit of an issue. Originally, I had cut out the Banksia, with a cute collar, in a dusty pink with teeny tiny purple polka dots... well, apparently I upset someone somewhere, because after I got halfway through the project, I noticed a slub in the fabric and had to start all over again in the red! Thanks to my stash, I quickly found some suitable fabric and away I went! The fabric requirements are spot on for this pattern - just in case you are wondering!

Notions: 

3 - 5/8" buttons (check out my adorable vintage ones I used!)

1/2" wide single fold bias tape

Lightweight fusible interfacing

Difficulty of Pattern: This pattern is rated at an Intermediate. I think that if you take your time and are an advanced beginner, you could whip it up in no time! Just make sure to follow the directions!

Time to Complete: 

Cut Pattern - Approximately 5 minutes. 
Cut Fabric from Pattern - Approximately 15 minutes.
Sew and Assemble Top - Approximately 2 hours (I am anticipating if I sew it again, probably about 1.25 - 1.5 hours.)

Machines Used: I used a combination of the sewing machine and the serger. I highly recommend surging your edges for a nice clean finish!

Alterations/Changes Made to the Pattern:  I didn't make any alterations to the pattern this time except that I followed one of Megan's suggestions for creating uniqueness in the pattern and opted to skip the collar for a simple bias covered neckline. (I WILL make the collared shirt though - it's precious!) Additionally, I plan to move the bust darts up approximately 1"... they are a little low - completely my fault!

Yeah/Nay: Um... of course! I think it's pretty obvious from my post that I will be making this puppy multiple times over!

Want to make the Banksia or one of Megan's awesome maternity patterns? Maybe the Darling Ranges dress?  Go enter my giveaway to win $50 in Store Credit to MeganNielsen.com.

I can't wait to try the other variations and actually make one with a collar! I will have to find the perfect fabric. What would you suggest?

Tiffany