No dart block

Here’s something I picked up at pattern drafting. A no-dart block.

These patterns have no darts. The shaping is based on your outline so it isn’t form-fitting – just what I need when it’s hot and humid for days on end in our summer.

This is a bit of a breakthrough for me as I’ve always wanted a tunic top basic. These blocks are used for knit patterns as well.

The red print above has a modest v-neckline using a quilt cotton. This was my first test run.

This top got a good workout while we were cycling in Bright among the vineyards.

See what I mean by a modest V-neck. It’s fairly high up as are we, looking over the vines on a very slow afternoon. Proof my Presidio purse does fit in a few bottles of wine.

The v-neckline here has been lowered more than the first version above. I wore this baby visiting and it’s fun to see a 6 month old going to grab the vegetable images on your top.

It’s so cute watching them learn what’s real and what’s not real.

Below is the lowered v-neckline with curves (version 3) in a cotton voile from the stash.

I used the curve on my scissor handle to form the curves on the neckline. They’re more flat than round. The trade-off here is while there’s no shaping and the fabric is cut on the fold, the back billows and while it’s hot, I can live with that.

Verdict:

This comfy block is weekend worthy; doesn’t stick to you when the weather is hot and humid; and is great when you’re watching movies in the park or at Opera in the domain. All of these are keeping me mozzie proof this summer.

When I first drafted these tops in November, I got to meet Colette from Tessutis at the first Sit ‘n sew session arranged by Sandra. Beajay, Kristy and Sharon posted up their take on this session. Thanks Colette for hosting this session.

9 comments

All of your tops are lovely – I particularly love the fabric of the first and the curved neckline of the last. Lovely. And what a cute little bub and a gorgeous place to take photos. Who doesn't love a vineyard.

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Oh I remember this one! I didn't realise it was dartless though. What a super addition to your wardrobe- so perfect for summer. The scissor outline neckline on the green one is really cute too!

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Lovely, cool looking tops. Perfect summer wear.

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I really like this! I can imagine this style is perfect for hot weather. And your scallopy neckline is lovely.

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I also remember the green top and didn't realise it was dartless, and can see how it would be so comfortable in these hot humid days.

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Thanks Maria – They look so comfy & very timely in this heat! To obtain your dartless block, do you close the waist dart & straighten the side seam? Or something else?

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I love the idea of a top with no darts – I often sew a pair of darts and am quite happy with them until I try on the outfit and realise one is slightly longer than the other!

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Excellent job on the dartless block! This is one of the hardest to get right and you have great balance in yours. Have you thought about extending length to a tunic or dress?

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