Warning: You Won’t Stop Making This Sewing Project for Gifts

If you are determined to make holiday presents this year then I have the sewing pattern for you, but warning: you won’t stop making this sewing project for gifts for her. Off-the-shoulder or cold shoulder tops are still trending these days. I have a sneaky suspicion that that will continue and become a stable in many women’s wardrobes. It’s a modest look for anyone who wants to show a little skin, but not too much. I have a few sewing patterns from over the years that are this style, but McCalls 7836 is by far my favorite. This is a great pattern for beginners. And it’s super cute and comfy.

You will want to sew a couple for yourself as well as friends and family. I do not sew for others often because the demands can be stressful, but when I do I like to pick patterns that are easy. The reasoning behind that is this, we are more likely to enjoy an activity if it does not drag on. I have a short attention span. And if a project takes me weeks to complete I can become disinterested fast. This is why I have the method of sewing something that takes longer with something that is quick. It keeps me from losing my “Sewjo” (Sewing mojo if you’ve never heard this term before). I really hope sharing this with you helps you stay motivated to sew those projects that have been on your list for weeks, months, or years.

Warning: You Won’t Stop Making This Sewing Project for Gifts

Here is my pattern review of McCalls 7836 using sweater knit fabric.

Pattern Description: Misses’ Top: Fitted pullover tops feature dropped shoulder and sleeve variations.

Pattern Size Chosen: 16

View: C

Fabric Choice: Sweater Knit here or here, Cotton Knits, Ponte Knit, French Terry

Color: Mustard Yellow

Sewing Tools Needed That Aren’t Mentioned:

• Sewing Machine  
• Madam Sew Heat Erasable Fabric Marking Pen or tailor’s chalk
• Rotary Cutter or Scissors
• Wonderclips
• Pattern Weights
• Polyester Thread
• 75/11 HS Needle
• Walking Foot
• Seam Ripper

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you finished sewing it?  Yes, it did! My shirt isn’t as fitted because I lost about 20 pounds since the last time I wore it.

Are the instructions easy to follow? 

Absolutely. I think this would be great in red in time for the holidays.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? 

Liked

The shoulder opening and the fit around the waist.

Disliked

I am usually not a fan of turtlenecks because of how restricting it is on the neck so I would do a looser neckband next time.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: 

None, it really is that easy.

Would you sew it again? 

Yes, I have plans to make it in black and add some embellishments to it. And probably will make it in red as well.

How long did it take? 

1-2 hours. I made it the night before my family came over for Thanksgiving.

Tips to avoid it taking as long and other advice: 

Cut out the pieces individually especially if you are using sweater knit. The fabric can be very slippery and you want the fabric edges to align perfectly.

Also, be sure to test the marking tool (pen or chalk) on a swatch of the fabric. This particular fabric I got from Joann Fabric years ago and it holds on to markings from pens so tailor’s chalk is much better.

Finally, use sewing pins to hold the collar together when stitching. Wonderclips are not stable enough to keep the fabric from shifting as you sew.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links at no cost to you. You can read my disclosure for more information.

Reminder on How to Shop

Shopping for my recommended favorite items is easy! Just click the links through my site to shop!

The black hat is old, but below are some great alternatives. And the burgundy hat was a gift so I added an affordable alternative below.

The belt here // The shoes are old, but I found some cute alternatives under $100 right now.

If you’re looking for another quick project be sure to check out my post How to Adjust Any Sewing Pattern From Woven to Stretch Fabric. I’ve made a few of those cardigans for myself and my mom. You can totally complete it in an hour or two depending on how quickly you sew.

Until next time…