Bettine T-Shirt In Reversible Jersey


Whilst Tilly and the Buttons' Bettine dress pattern took the whole world and its dog by storm, I was left feeling sad that elasticated waists and tulip skirts are not a good look for me. Then Tilly shared tips for making a jersey Bettine dress and a light bulb went on in my head!



I absolutely love Bettine's scoop neckline, kimono sleeves and sweet tab cuffs...all details that I associate with the perfect T-shirt design. With that in mind and the abundance of jersey in my fabric stash, I'm well equipped to fill that smart T-shirt shaped hole in my wardrobe.


For my first Bettine T-shirt, of many no doubt, I used some super cool, reversible jersey I snagged for £1 on Leicester market. Sadly, I didn't realise that it was heat sensitive until I pressed the life out of the neckline, which has left an unsightly mark. I've still been wearing it though, because I love the shape and print...I'm just pretending its tie-dye fabric ;o)


The only modification I made to the pattern was to add around 15cm to the hem, making sure I followed the natural curve of the side seam to accommodate my muffin-top hips. I also opted to finish the neckline with the facing provided, instead of drafting a neckband. I love a good neckband, but sometimes feel it can look too casual and I wanted this to be a smarter T-shirt. The facing worked really well as my jersey is sturdy and I just trimmed it all the way down.



I'm sure you agree that the tab cuffs are a really sweet feature, especially in a different print. I'm excited to make an army of Bettine T-shirts, in both jersey and woven fabrics. Who's with me?

16 comments:

  1. Wow, the cuff detail is so neat! As soon as I get a machine that can handle jersey, I'm totally in, haha.

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  2. What a good idea, I have this pattern and the tulip skirt sadly doesn't suit me either, my one and only attempt went in the bin... Thanks for this post!

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    1. Glad I've helped you find a way of enjoying this lovely pattern 😃

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  3. I like this top. That fabric is lovely and what bargain. Xx

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  4. Very classy, love those cuffs with tab in contrast.

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  5. Fabulous! Definitely gonna give this a go. Thanks for the inspiration Marie.

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  6. I'm with you! I was thinking of changing the skirt style might be a cute modification, too!

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    1. Oh yes, great idea! Looking forward to seeing your patten hack!

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  7. I thought the Bettine would make my bum look huge but it actually looked OK when it was finished (well I can't actually see it but it felt OK!) I agree with you though the shape of the top is really flattering and makes a great T-shirt. I have done my last Vintage Pledge post for 2015 and I have shared my three favourite vintage patterns because I didn't get chance the other week when you were sharing yours. You can put any picture from the post on the pinterest board (unless I can do it myself?) My final paragraph sums up what you have done for me and my vintage pattern collection. Thanks Marie. Love from Jo x
    http://joeveryday19@blogspot.co.uk

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    1. Oh Jo, thank you! I'm over the moon that you've been taking part and I've loved seeing all your makes!

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  8. Oh you totally reminded me that Bettine can be jersey/stretch too! I really like the neckline... will give it a go too!

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  9. Totally inspiring!

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  10. Just come across this post googling for Bettine Top ideas and love your version - like you my body shape just does not suit the tulip skirt :-( Was wondering if you used interfacing on the facing pieces? Thank you for the inspiration!

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