We're just over halfway through February and we're still going strong and sewing ourselves some LOVE here at Pattern Revolution! We love that there are designers that see the need for really great fitting and fresh women's patterns that fit a variety of shapes and sizes. Let's catch up with Kara and Sarah (no, that wasn't planned!) as they share their review of the Otium Sweater by Sofilantjes Patterns. This pattern can be purchased through our sponsor DIY Crush.

Have you been doing some self care sewing this month? I always love February because I know I will get some great inspiration from Pattern Revolution to sew myself some new outfits. This year I have been able to sew some really fun garments and I can’t wait to show you my latest.

The Otium Sweater by Sofilantjes Patterns is such a cute and comfortable top. This sweater is a “wear anywhere” kind of sweater. Dress it up, dress it down, wear it to the grocery or to church. I chose to make a casual top with an athletic fabric from Joann. I am all about comfort, so the Otium fits the bill.

Here are some specifics:

Sizes XS - XXXL
Sleeve options: short, 3/4, long sleeves
Cute waistband and bow detail
Pocket option
Stretch fabric required
Layered printing option
Pattern layout and printing guide
Finished measurements/size chart in inches and cm
Directions for shortening or lengthening
Fabric chart
Computer drafted pictures with instructions

The Otium Pattern is very easy and quick to sew, I was able to whip this out in just about an hour. I like the simplicity of the pattern but the finished look of the sweater. The instructions are very clear and easy to follow.

I hope I’ve given you a little inspiration or some encouragement to go out and make yourself something cute. Take some time out today to make yourself a cute top to wear for date night or just to go pick up the kids. Happy Self Care Sewing!

XOXO,
Kara

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Sofilantjes Patterns' Otium top is the second Sofilantjes Pattern I've sewn. If you remember, not too long ago, I reviewed the Iridis Wrap dress.I am quickly falling in love with Sofilantjes styles and easy construction.

The Otium is an amazingly fun women's top (there is also a girl's version!)

What makes this top unique is the flirty, yet optional, bow back. With this option, the back scoop drops a bit lower than normal (but does not show your bra) and you sew on a fabric bow. Bow pattern and instructions included!

Or there is a cut line for a regular back neckline as well.

Another cool option is a diagonal pocket for the front. Perfect for shell collecting on the beach or using it as a third hand of all of us moms. Ha! Kidding!

The bottom of the shirt has a waistband for a flattering look on all sizes.

3 sleeve lengths included: short, 3/4, and long. The long and 3/4 sleeves have wristbands. The short sleeves are hemmed.

Information breakdown:

Fabric: knit
Seam allowance included: 3/8"
Fabric requirements: 1 1/8 yard to 3 yards depending on size and option chose
Sizes: XS to XXXL (31.5" bust/34" hip to 52" bust/53" hip)
Every diagram has Imperial and Metric sizing
Layered PDF with printing guide so you only have to print the size and pages you need.
Pattern layout chart for easy taping
Helpful hints on picking the right size
Tips on how to sew knits
Diagrams showing how to lengthen sleeves and the shirt
Finished measurement AND sizing charts included
Sewing level: beginner

I think my favorite part of Sofilantjes Patterns is the 3 styles of directions included. First, you will see usual PDF style instructions. Each step has a photo and a written detailed step.
After that you will seen a page with written only steps. Third is a page with pictures only. I LOVE this. If you only want written or picture steps, you can simply print out which page you like and keep it with your pattern. Such an awesome idea!

Details of my shirt:

My measurements are 34 bust and 34 hip, so I made a size XS. By my measurements, I really fit into the lower side of the small category. I like my shirts a bit more fitted, so I sized down since I was on the cusp anyway.

I don't know how you could make the Otium top and NOT sew the bow option. It's just too darn cute.

I did the regular front and bow back with short sleeves (dreaming of warm weather and summer). The neck is binded as most knit tops.

I made two boo boos on my top. Because the bow back option makes the back neckline lower than the front, my brain overloaded. I accidentally put the seam of the neckband binding on the front of my shirt since I'm so used to the back neckline being higher than the front. It's such a busy print, I'm hoping no one notices. Second boo boo, my top stitching on the neckband is less than desirable on the front right. I'm not sure what happened there. The sewing gods must have taken a snack break. The directions were easy and straight forward. The only small thing I will change for next time, and there WILL be a next time, is the front neckline. It's a bit high for my liking and I feel it hits my neck.

I got all kinds of compliments from the hubby, too. That alone makes this shirt worth sewing!

Check out all of Sofilantjes patterns!