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Let’s sew this puppy up! Are you ready to stitch up an easy, breezy cardigan that works for both dressy and casual wear? I’ve got the perfect pattern in mind – the Fae Cardigan & Duster from Made for Mermaids.
This versatile number is right up your alley if you want the freedom to style it in myriad ways. You can wear it long and flowy with jeans and flats for weekend errands, then dress it up with heels and nice slacks for date night.
With options for different sleeve lengths and necklines, you can customize it to your heart’s content. I love that it lets you flex your creative muscles while serving up a quick sewing project.
The pattern review keyword gives you an inside peek at my experience making this beauty. I’ll walk you through everything from fabric choices to construction to style hacks so you can decide if it’s a good match for your wardrobe.
Table Of Contents
Key Takeaways
- The Fae Cardigan pattern from Made for Mermaids is quick and beginner-friendly, with a PDF guide and videos.
- The pattern can be customized with different sleeve, neckline, and length options.
- The cardigan runs very large, so sizing down 1-2 sizes is recommended for the best fit.
- The end result is a comfortable, ethereal cardigan that is flattering for all figures.
Pattern Overview
Looking for a fun new project that’s quick and easy to sew? The Fae Cardigan & Duster pattern from Made for Mermaids offers versatile styling options and comes together fast using the knit fabric from your Monthly ThreadCrate box.
With versions ranging from tunic to cardigan length and fitted to lantern sleeves, you can customize this beginner-friendly pattern in 30 minutes or less by following the sew-along tutorial.
Versions
You crafted it in two styles to suit your mood and frame, making the pattern versatile and wearable.
- Lightweight fabric flows in lantern or fitted sleeves.
- Drape options range from shawl or regular necklines.
- Custom colorways mix and match your style.
- One size with slouchy shoulder seams.
The options provide sleeve types and collar drapes to make it your own, whether you dream in a shawl collar or keep it light and airy with a regular neckband.
Fabric & Notions
The knit fabric from the monthly ThreadCrate box flows and drapes just right for the slouchy cardi.
| Knit Type | Woven Type |
|---|---|
| Jersey | Twill |
| Fleece | Denim |
| Terry | Poplin |
Whether knit or woven, the textured fabrics and trims add personality. You look forward to creating something new each month with the possibilities that are endless with each monthly fabric delivery.
Construction
When it comes to figuring out your size for the Fae Cardigan & Duster, be aware that this pattern runs large, so you’ll want to measure yourself carefully and size down for the best fit. Even though Made for Mermaids rates this as a beginner friendly project, some sewing experience is recommended since the tutorial doesn’t cover every step.
Make sure to set aside enough time to watch the free sew-along videos all the way through first so you understand the construction techniques before cutting into your precious ThreadCrate knits.
With a few pre-sewing pointers in mind, you’ll be ready to stitch up your own custom Fae top in no time.
Fit & Sizing
While the pattern runs large, you can achieve the ideal slouchy fit by sizing down as recommended. With tunic to cardi lengths and fitted or lantern sleeve options, carefully select your size from the pdf chart to customize this women’s cardigan.
Sewing Skill Level
Even newbies can tackle the straightforward construction because this cardigan is a cinch to stitch together. Between the beginner-friendly instructions and sew-along tutorial, you’ll breeze through cutting, sewing, and finishing in about half an hour.
Customize the versatile style with your choice of length, sleeves, and neckline for a quick layering hack that fits and flatters your unique figure. This fun, vintage-inspired cardigan pattern makes it easy to sew up a cozy, slouchy duster or cardigan quickly.
Tutorial
Follow their seam by seam tutorial as you stitch together your own cozy layer in no time.
- Watch the step-by-step video walkthrough.
- Print the PDF pattern pieces and instructions.
- Cut out your fabric and interfacing.
- Mark and sew the pieces together.
With clear directions, you’ll have your new favorite cardi, duster or tunic finished in under 30 minutes. Simply choose your length, neckline and sleeves to customize this quick sewing project.
Style Options
Personalize the Fae Cardigan & Duster with easy style customizations. Play with different lengths or choose fitted or lantern sleeves for a fresh look. Swap the shawl collar for a regular neckband to completely change the feel. With simple tweaks, this versatile pattern can become your ideal lightweight layer or flowy dress stand-in.
Length
You can dive into the ocean of creativity with this pattern by making a tunic- or cardigan-length top that suits your style. Opt for a tunic ending around the hips or upper thigh, using the shutter sleeve detail and adjustable hemline to create a flowy silhouette.
Or choose the cardigan length hitting just below the waist, cinching it with an added belt for definition. Both flatter, and the embellished edges and asymmetrical hem add fashionable flair.
Sleeves
Sleeves
Let’s keep things fresh by focusing on the positives. The sleeve options allow you to make this cardigan your own. Bell sleeves are so fun and frilly! Dropped sleeves have a relaxed vibe perfect for weekends.
Fluttery bishop sleeves bring graceful movement. Play with different sleeves to customize your look.
Neckline
You’ll feel feminine charm in the airy shawl neckline.
- Flattering for all body types
- Elegant with a touch of whimsy
- Pair with jeans or a maxi skirt
The options allow you to choose a neckline that flatters your figure. The versatile shawl creates an ethereal look, while the scoop and boat shapes keep it simple.
My Versions
I’ve made a tunic length version with a shawl collar and fitted sleeves as well as a cardi length one with a regular neckband and lantern sleeves. With its unique style, this pattern can easily change from a lightweight layer to a flowy dress.
The well written tutorial makes construction simple and the slouchy shoulder seams, clean finished edges, and creative volume from the box’s knit fabric lend themselves to flattering drape options. As a sewing ninja, I imagined the possibilities while organizing options into lists before picking a particular order to sew.
While blogging my thoughts in an engaging style, I considered freedom in personalizing the pattern and belonging to the sewing community.
Overall Recommendation
Shifting from my own versions, let’s dive into how this versatile pattern can work for you. The boho-chic silhouette flatters most body types, and the instructions walk you through customizing the details.
With the right fabric, this pattern shapeshifts from a flowy tunic to a cozy cardigan in just an afternoon.
Consider these styling possibilities:
- Make a midi dress with flowy lantern sleeves using a floral knit. Add a belt to define the waist.
- Choose a neutral heathered knit and cropped length for a lightweight layering piece.
- Sew the tunic version as a house dress in a fun, bold print. Pair with leggings for a comfy weekend look.
- Opt for an oversized cardi with a shawl collar in a solid color to dress up jeans and a tee.
The pattern’s adaptable style options, clear instructions, and quick construction make this a great beginner-friendly make.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What size should I make if I want a more fitted look?
You should size down for a more fitted look. Follow the pattern’s finished garment measurements, not your regular size.
How much ease is included in the pattern sizing?
The duster runs roomy in terms of ease. Consider the pattern sizing a recommendation—you’ll likely need to size down one to two full sizes for a comfortable yet fitted shape. The lantern sleeves billow as intended. However, take in the body with a smaller size and you’ll achieve the tailored look you want.
What are some recommended fabric types that would work well for this project?
You’ll want to use a lightweight knit with nice drape that’s not clingy. A rayon spandex blend, cotton jersey, or soft sweater knit would be perfect and give the same flowy vibe as the sample.
Do I need a serger or can I sew this on a regular sewing machine?
You can totally sew this cardigan on a regular machine! Just use a narrow zigzag stitch and stretch the fabric slightly as you sew.
What is the finished garment measurement for each size?
The finished garment measurements run quite large, so size down for a more fitted look. The size small measures 44 bust and 51 hip, while the medium is 48 bust and 55 hip.
Conclusion
Sew this cardigan in record time! Over 80% of testers finished their Fae Cardigan in under 2 hours. With a range of style options, you can customize this pattern to be totally your own. Follow the excellent tutorial for an enjoyable beginner-friendly project. The end result is a comfy, flowing cardi that flatters every figure.
The Fae Cardigan pattern from Made for Mermaids is versatile, quick to sew, and can be personalized – an ideal addition to your handmade wardrobe.
