Hi, guys! It’s getting COLD out, people– the puggies and I were freezing when we took our walk this morning! Luckily, I finished this top just in time for chilly weather. It’s Megan Nielsen’s Banksia Top, and it’s a pattern I’ve been wanting to make for a long time. When Megan announced the sewalong, I jumped at the chance!

Isn’t my neighborhood lovely? Sigh…
I wanted to make this really feminine top a little more my style, so I used an inexpensive buffalo check flannel from A.K. Fabrics in the Garment District. I love flannel– it reminds me of my grandfather, plus it’s so cuddly and soft that I feel like I’m wearing pajamas at work! The fabric had a few downsides, though– I started noticing flaws in it as I was cutting things out, plus any time I had to use the seam ripper, small holes developed in the fabric. Yikes!

Look, I’m turning my patented outside-photography-in-the-cold shade of purple!
I love this collar paired with the lowered neckline– it makes the top a little more grownup-looking, but still cute. I used vintage buttons from Etsy, and decided to do 4 buttonholes instead of 3. I made a size XS with a 1/2″ FBA, and next time I’ll give myself a smidge more room through the mid-back and armscyes (yeah, yeah, I made a muslin, but for some reason I didn’t put the sleeves on… d’oh!).

I’m always standing some crazy way that makes my clothes hang goofy. What’s up with that?
The pattern is really simple to put together and the directions are really clear. I had a little trouble lining up the placket exactly using the 2nd method, but that’s just because I’m clumsy. Like several other people, I had to extend the collar to get it to meet the placket in the middle. I was careful to staystitch the neckline, so I’m pretty sure that it didn’t stretch out. Not the end of the world or anything, though. It really is a unique pattern and looks cute on everyone that makes it– try it if you haven’t already!
What have you guys been up to lately? I’m sorry for my lack of commenting on your blogs and posting on my own– the internet is still down in my neighborhood. 😦 Luckily, I’ve had cell service, so I can at least keep up with everybody on Instagram and Facebook– NECESSARY FOR SURVIVAL. Hopefully you’re all well!
P.S. Did you see that Stephanie from makes the things opened up an Etsy shop? Check it out– she’s got some cool pieces!
This is my all time fav Banksia I’ve seen! I’m also not good with really girly styles but the plaid really makes it awesome!
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Thanks, Jen! I’m trying to get better at just looking at design lines of patterns and figuring out how to make them work for me. Hit or miss!
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i think this is my fave banksia so far. the plaid is so unexpected but it looks great with the peter pan collar and the diagonal front placket. i want one now!!
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Thanks, Dixie! 🙂
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got serious top envy and I agree with Dixie, best so far..
looking forward to meet up soon!
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Thanks, girl! I’m SO excited to meet you!
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This is really cute and it looks so comfy. It looks great in the buffalo check. I like the contrast between the buffalo check and the femininity of the peter pan collar and the shape of the shirt. 🙂 I may have to try this pattern for myself.
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Thanks, Becca! I totally recommend it– it’s a great little pattern!
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This is actually the most beautiful version I have seen on the blogosphere! I love your fabric choice (I am a huge fan of flannel!!!) and I really like the idea, that it makes you think of your grandfather. 🙂
I have seen many Banksia on the internet, but only yours made me tempted to try that pattern! 😉
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Thanks, lady! I’ve been thinking about what else I can make with flannel! It’s just so amazing to wear!
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