Y’all know that I LOVE multipurpose sewing patterns! So, when I first saw Cashmerette’s Grafton Dress, Top and Skirt Mix and Match pattern, my mind exploded with possibilities. Before diving into a really complicated sewing project, I chose to get a feel for the pattern by sewing a top and skirt using this fun printed Making Conversation Scuba Stretch knit from Minerva. The design features the beautifully diverse faces of a set of colorful cartoon women on a stark white background. With so many colors, it’ll be easy to pair with anything in your closet, from a casual pair of jeans to a bright yellow top to a slinky black cami. Or, you could double up on the print and wear them together. Let your creativity run wild!
Originally released in September 2023, Grafton is the perfect pattern for sewing tons of beautiful knit garments. Between the two bodice options, five neckline options, seven sleeve options, seven skirt options, and various options for waistbands, pockets, and slits, there are over 400 different combinations for sewing tops, dresses, and skirts. I can’t think of a more versatile pattern than that! My go-to is to sew dresses, but I decided to make separates this time.
For the skirt, I sewed a 3-panel circle skirt and added pockets to the front panel. For the top, I combined the fitted bodice, without the waist darts, with the scoop neckline and straight, short sleeves. Both pieces were super easy to sew and look as great together as they do separately. Since this pattern came with multiple cup sizes, I didn’t have to do an FBA or any other fitting adjustments. I can’t tell you how exciting it is when a garment fits well hot off the machine.
The Minerva exclusive Making Conversation Scuba Stretch Knit is a fairly new offering. This design is printed to order on a soft, bouncy knit that’s resistant to creasing. Printing on demand may take a little longer, but it’s a more sustainable and environmentally friendly way to produce fabrics. Despite this being 95% polyester, this medium-weight knit moves and breathes beautifully. There was no color bleeding or fading after I laundered the fabric, but the knit softened nicely. The Grafton pattern suggests light to medium fabrics with at least 25% stretch both horizontally and vertically. This knit has 40% horizontal stretch and 30% vertical stretch, but it has enough weight to maintain a garment’s structure.
