Wiksten Top in Tweed Thicket

Looking for a quick make? The Wiksten Shift Dress + Top is a great choice.

From opening the envelope to hand stitching the bottom hem, I sewed it in an afternoon—including tracing my pattern size, making a muslin, and a mod to the neck.

I already had my fabric pre-washed: 2-1/2 yards of Tweed Thicket, a yarn-dyed cotton from Diamond Textiles. 

Pocket placement on my Wiksten Top.

There are minimal pattern pieces for this top: front, back, facings and a pocket. It would be an excellent pattern for embellishments, surface design or patchwork if you enjoy any of these processes.

Wiksten Top: front and back views

I opted for a single pocket and decided to make a facing. This Australian Aboriginal print from M&S Textiles Australia was used for the lining/facing.

Pocket facing. Fabric from M&S Textiles Australia. 

Modifications and Options

• My Wiksten Top has a slightly smaller neck opening (a personal style preference). I re-drafted the neck facings.
• This pattern includes a short and long dress. You could modify the length of the top or use the short dress version to make a tunic.
• I'm interested in adding the side slits (see instructions for the dress) on a top. It would be a cute detail.
• The pattern instructions specify machine sewn sleeve and bottom hems. I enjoy hand sewing when time permits.
• I'm planning to use this pattern for an improv patchwork version. I have a length of fabric that's not enough to yield the full garment, but could be "stretched" if mixed with other fabrics.

Front pocket on my Wiksten Top.

The Wiksten Top is another add to Me Made May and a handmade wardrobe.