Buttonless Cardigan

I admit that I suffer yearly from fall wardrobe envy.  I’m not proud of it. The truth is that living in the desert requires a very different wardrobe than in other climates and I have little use for something like a wool coat or styles that utilize lots of layers. Case in point, it’s late October and I’m still in shorts, tanks and sandals... all in the same outfit. So when I came across Simplicity S8951 it seemed like a great way to feel like I was sewing for fall.. desert fall, that is.

The main fabric is a ponte knit from the clearance section of JoAnn Fabrics. There was just over a yard of it left which was perfect for this pattern. Ponte fabrics are such a wonderful weight. They hang heavy but without feeling hot. The bands are a cotton/spandex ribbed knit from my stash and I love the color contrast. So 80s working mom! When I tried it on I was disappointed to find that it was a little snug in the stomach area (I just started working off my pandemic weight so it might be awhile before it fits right) so I left off the buttons. Honestly, though, I probably won’t add them even when/if I could button it easily. I don’t think I’ve ever buttoned a cardigan and I like the look without them. 

This project was an excellent reminder of the importance of pressing as you go. It always amazes me to see my wobbly seams smooth out with pressing. I wasn’t sure if the ponte would handle the same heat as the ribbed so I used a pressing cloth which was a little more effort but the memory of my “holey” Seamwork Rory continues to haunt me. 

In other news, I've come up with an excellent challenge that I think will make working through my crazy huge stash of fabrics even more fun and I've inspired my mom to join as well. More on that to come.