Lago Tank: A New FREE Pattern From Itch-To-Stitch

What could possibly be better than another Itch-To-Stitch pattern release? 

When it's FREE, of course!

I tend to Google-research just about any new pattern I purchase, even the free ones. I like to know what I'm getting into before I get started. Most of the time I end up passing on the free patterns because so many reviews indicate fit issues. Is a free pattern really worth it when you have to redraft the armhole, move the dart, adjust the angle of the straps, do an FBA, and, and, and. Not for me. I have better things to do, and prefer to start with a well drafted base, even if I have to pay for it. 

I'm so happy to tell you that with Lago Tank from Itch-To-Stitch, you get the best of both worlds. A thoroughly tested, precisely drafted, well instructed pattern that is FREE.

There were about 30 of us selected to help test the drafting and instructions for Lago Tank. We spent a week working and refining, and near the end, a couple new faces were added at the last minute to ensure that those of us with larger busts, or on the larger side of the size chart would have the same "coverage". See, while mathematically based increases in drafting looks good on paper, it sometimes needs some fine tuning to give us busty ladies the best result. And good results there were! Make sure you check out the launch post HERE to see all the different versions. Many of the ladies have blogged about their experiences too, so be sure to click on their names in the launch post for more info.

Pattern Details

This pattern is perfect for quick projects, stash busting and experimenting with pattern hacks. At it's core, it is an uncomplicated basic; a closet workhorse.

-Relaxed fit with a touch of negative ease at the bust*.

-Scoop neck at just the right level to keep you cool without over exposure.

-Racer back/cut in back armholes.

-Band finish for both the neck and arm openings*.

-Hip length hem.

*The pattern instructions also include details on how large cup size ladies can choose their best starting size as well as how to adjust the size of your arm/neck bands when using really stretchy/drapey fabric.

Muslin Work

I pulled out a poly/lycra fabric from my stash to work up my first tank. My measurements are pretty spot on for size 10, so my first attempt was a straight 10, right off the printer with no adjustments. Here is what I got:

I made 3 super easy adjustments which took this pattern from what you see above, to what you see below:

Adjustment #1: Reduce The Total Length

The very first thing I noticed is this tank is way too long for me! Not surprising as I'm a short girl. The first thing I did was take 2 inches off at the Lengthen & Shorten line, which is positioned close to the waist on this pattern. This reduced the overall length on me, bringing it to a much more flattering proportion and taking most of that extra back length out.

Adjustment #2: Grade To A Larger Hip Size

If it's not the boobs causing trouble, it's the butt. In this style, it juts out enough to distort the hem creating drag lines and causing the back to ride up and pool in my lower back. Part of this is the fabric. It is really stretchy, but it contains lots of lycra, so it also wants to hold its shape. Something without the spandex would relax with a few minutes wear and lay more smoothly. By grading to a 12 starting at the high hip and going all the way to the hem, I'm giving my ass enough space to look awesome instead of ample. It also helps reduce a few more of those back wrinkles.

Adjustment #3: Swayback Adjustment

The last thing I did was a small 1/2 inch swayback adjustment. It cleaned up the rest of the wrinkles, but left me enough ease of movement. No one likes it when your shirt rides up as you bend over, so be careful not to remove all the ease. I followed the information found HERE, and it was exactly what I needed.

An Extra Adjustment: Armhole Reduction

I have a thing about armholes. My shoulder joint is smaller than average, so while all the other testers are sharing their armpit fit with delight, I'm looking down wondering if it's too low. The fix for that on this style garment is really simple. No messing with shapes or adding height at the side seam. All I did was take a 1/2 inch out of the front strap at the shoulder. I'm not even sure it's noticeable to the average person, but it is funny how such a small adjustment can help me feel more confident. 

A Note About Fabric

There is an amazing variety of knit fabrics that you can use to make your own unique Lago Tank. But keep in mind that the properties of the fabric, even among the same category, can be different. Not all rayon jersey is the same! 

One of the big things we discuss in test groups is fabric selection and how it effects everything from the fit, to the construction methods, to the final outcome of the garments we are making. The final pattern release includes information about how using knits with lycra or that are super stretchy can effect the final size of your armholes. If you choose something like a rayon jersey, you will have beautiful drape, but possibly saggy binding. You'll need to reduce the length of the bands to keep them nice and tight. If you aren't sure, it's totally worth your time to baste them or pin baste them and give the tank a quick try on before you stitch. Otherwise, you may find yourself picking out serger stitches and thinking about how Crystal was SOOOOO right. 

Robynne and the Bobbin did a side by side fabric comparison of rayon jersey and cotton lycra with the Lago Tank. You can go HERE and check out just how different your tank could be based on the fabric you choose.

Finished Photos

At the time of this post, I have finished and photographed 5 versions of this tank! One has a "naturally" rolled hem, because the fabric was squirrelly. The three made with matte rayon jersey have black contrast hip-hugging bands as a hem. This is not part of the pattern draft, but something I hacked because I was too lazy to hem them traditionally. The 5th has a turned up zig-zag hem as is part of the pattern. 

 

 

Is Lago Tank For You?

Yes.

 Lago Tank is a great boon for long time fans and a terrific entry point for anyone looking to try out the Itch-To-Stitch product. Grab your copy HERE for free. You don't even need a discount code!

 While you are there, take advantage of the site-wide sale happening Saturday, Sunday and Monday (May 13, 14 & 15). Use code LOVEMOM for 20% off.

I can't play ball, I have too many things to sew....

Want to make your Lago Tank an outfit? Grab Belize Shorts, Liana Jeans, Emily Culottes or Angelia Shorts. Finish your outfit with a Paro Cardigan or Lisbon Cardigan for chilly evenings and air-conditioned restaurants.