Sleeve of my dreams!

A review of Maven Patterns Somerset T-shirt

Reviewed by Jo on 7th July, 2020

As soon as I saw this pattern pop up on the Foldline website I snapped it up as it has the sleeves of my dreams. I’ve spent the last 15 years lusting after cuffed bishop sleeves but rarely found them in shops. Now I can make my own! Teenage Jo is very happy.

This was my first time using Maven Patterns and I was really impressed. The pattern was well laid out and the instructions very thorough with helpful tips if you need extra hand-holding. Admittedly I didn’t follow the technique for using shirring elastic to gather the sleeves as I didn’t have any. I used clear elastic instead.

I cut out version D in size 12 according to my measurements which are B35, W27, H37. I added 1″ body length and 1/2″ sleeve length and widened the shoulders slightly (I’m almost 5ft 8 and broad shouldered) and I’m happy with the resulting fit.

My only slight niggle is that the back neckline stands off my neck a little bit depending on how I stand. Either it stretched out slightly when topstitching in place or I need extra shoulder adjustments. Not a big deal though.

My fabric is a lovely floral print cotton jersey purchased online from My Fabrics last year. I love that it gives this top a 60s/70s feel.

All in all, I absolutely love this top and cannot wait to make more and hack it into a dress!