Gemma Tank – Made by Rae | Pattern Review

Hi everyone… I guess it is rather obvious that I’d lost my sewjo for a while, sorry for the lack of content the past couple of months. To be honest, I wasn’t even trying to get my sewjo back, I knew I needed the break. I think it’s good (for me) to walk away for a bit from the regular stuff and do something different instead. Anyways, what I’m trying to say is… I’m happy to be back 😀 Thank you for your patience and understanding while I was away.

So, enough with all the chit chat, let’s get down to business, shall we?

The Pattern.

The Gemma tank is a simple woven pullover tank top. It comes in sizes XXS to XL and plus sizes 1 to 3, from full bust 32.5″ to 51″. The armholes and neckline are finished with bias binding, and there are only two pattern pieces to cut. It is a very quick project, I reckon you could whip this out in maybe a couple of hours or less, providing you already have bias binding on hand. I decided to make my own binding from the same fabric, so it took me a tad longer to finish this project.

The pattern, as far as I know, is only available in PDF, but there aren’t that many pages to print and assemble, so it’s not so bad (to me). What I really love about this pattern, other than the simplicity of it, is that it comes in cups A/B and C/D, so no need to worry about SBA or FBA.

The instructions are very clear, complete with diagram to boot. Though I must admit I didn’t follow the instructions to the T, I went with my own way to finish the armholes and neckline.

The Fabric.

This fabric looks familiar, doesn’t it? Yeah, it’s the same one I used to make my Kalle shirt toile a while ago. I bought 4m of this fabric, so it’s quite possible that this fabric will make another appearance here soon. This is a rather crisp cotton lawn, it has more structure than the soft and slightly drapier Liberty tana lawn.

The Gemma pattern doesn’t require too much fabric, for my size, I used less than a metre of fabric. I love 1m projects as they allow me to play with more luxurious fabrics without breaking the bank… (ahem Atelier Brunette, anyone?)

The sewing process.

I made mine in size M in A/B cup (I’m B37-W31-H39) and I didn’t find any issue with the fit, although I would like to shorten the length a bit for my next version. As I mentioned above, I went with my own way to bind the neckline and armholes, and I finished the side seams with French seam. The hem is quite narrow, only 1/2″ allowance but it does make for a nice clean curve. After I tried this version on, I think if I were to shorten it by about 4″ it would be perfect. The hem would fall just below my belly button.

I didn’t find any problem at all with the instructions and the sewing process, all in all it was a fun and quick project. I really enjoyed it.

Final thoughts.

I know what you’re thinking, “Faye, Winter is just around the corner, whatcha doing with Summery garments?” Well, aside from the fact that I just cannot let Summer go (LOL), I think this tank can be a perfect layering piece. Throw on a cardi (Blackwood cardigan? Oooh I like that!) or wear over long sleeved tee. Obviously, my fabric still screams Spring/Summer, but I’m not going to lose sleep over that 😉

Honestly,  I love love love this pattern. This simple tank is sweet enough on its own, but can be easily hacked into a dress I think, or maybe a cropped top? Button back? If you’re not into the bias binding finish, it’s easy enough to make all-in-one facing or even full lining. Maybe even make it reversible? Oh my, the ideas just keep on coming! And if you’re trying to get your sewjo back, like I was, this simple quick and fun pattern may just be the perfect first step.

So, would I recommend this pattern? Hell yeah!! I think everyone needs a reliable top pattern that doesn’t require much fabric and time to make in their pattern collection. I’m happy to have this pattern in mine, it’s definitely a keeper.

That’s all from me today. I hope you enjoyed this post. Again, I just want to stay thank you for sticking around. I hope you have a wonderful weekend and week ahead. See you again soon.

Happy stitching,

Faye