When I stumbled across the Papercut Patterns Solar Tee and Sweater, I knew immediately this was a pattern I needed in my collection. I found so many beautiful versions on Instagram (some with extra sleeve ruffles, swoon) and knew this would be the first pattern I’d make multiple versions of.
For my first Solar Tee I went with the short sleeved version in this now out of stock Dalmatian print deadstock jersey, in a size 5 with no adjustments. I loved the finished piece but there was definitely some stuff I’d change for my next version - all detailed below!
When Alisha asked if I’d like to make my second Solar Tee with some of her newly stocked Tilly and the Buttons jersey, I pondered for a while over which fabric to use (they’re all gorgeous). As someone who usually wears a lot of colour, I leapt out of my comfort zone and picked the Black & White Jumbo Spots.
The fabric arrived quickly with my monthly subscription box and I was overjoyed with the quality but a little taken aback by how large the spots were! However, I managed to cut out all my pattern pieces without cutting any of the polka dots in half (except on the hem. Nobody is perfect, right?).
I wanted to make a long sleeved version with sleeve ruffles and cuffs, but omitting the hem band so I could still tuck the top into jeans. I was particularly happy that I was able to cut out my sleeve cuffs in completely black fabric; I think it made the end result look so striking.
I sewed the entire top on my overlocker in a couple of hours, which considering I procrastinate a LOT, is really good going!
Some adjustments I made based on my first Solar Tee: I didn’t hem the ruffles, I love the raw edge effect and think it looks a lot neater considering you can see the underside of them. I also did a proper hem instead of overlocking it because on my first top it ended up looking a bit lettuce-edge like. Hemming is my worst nightmare but it’s made so much easier by my Clover Hot Hemmer.
Overall I can’t rate this pattern enough! It’s got a semi-oversized fit and added femininity with the sleeve ruffles (which are totally optional!). You can also make it in both knit and woven fabrics, although I’m yet to try the latter. I plan to make my next version in something thicker like a French Terry or Sweatshirting.
The Papercut Patterns Solar Tee is available in sizes UK 6 - 34.
Emma also used sew in labels that featured in the Kylie & The Machine 2021 Advent Calendar.
You can follow Emma's sewing & crocheting journey on instagram - @emzimakes