I’m excited to be sewing SO MUCH these past few weeks. I can’t wait to show you all of the projects I’m working on towards Creativ Festival – but today, I get to show off the Finlayson Sweater from Thread Theory. Yesterday we went out into the finally-Spring weather and I got a few outdoor photo-shoots taken as well. It’s very nice to mix work and play on a sunny afternoon!
I’m so happy to have a go-to pattern for my husband. In fact, I have made two somethings – two of these sweaters! This is the first one, the other was in the wash, or we would have photographed it as well. Good sign, it being in the wash, since both of these have been worn at least once a week since I made them early this year. Hooray! I would definitely make more, and I don’t think my husband would protest. He really likes them both!
Here are a few things I love about it:
- My husband loves to wear them! It’s comfortable and still looks nice.
- The hems are all banded – easier than hemming.
- It’s fast! Especially with a serger (though you don’t need one).
- I love that it’s made from knits – the fit is simpler.
- Lots of variations – shawl collar, decorative neck facing, overlapped lined hood, kangaroo pocket.
Thoughts on the pattern:
- The instructions are well written.
- The steps are drawn – not photographed. And well illustrated.
- It includes Body measurements and Finished Garment measurements. Super helpful when choosing a size.
- Includes tips for more professional finish, like using clear elastic on the shoulders.
Thoughts on the fit:
- The pattern includes a good range of sizes, XS-XXL.
- Based on the measurements, I made a large graded out to an XL at the waist for comfort.
- I also shortened the length of the sleeves according to the measurements and it worked out great.
- The finished size and fit was consistent with the measurements given.
Things I might change next time:
- In my second sweater, I made the bottom of the arms a bit thinner. We liked how it turned out, but the knit was not as stretchy as this version so it’s a bit tight on the lower arms.
- I’d like to try the shawl collar, but I haven’t found the right fabric yet. Plus it’s finally becoming spring – so maybe we’ll see more of them in the fall.
Reader Feedback: Do you have a favorite Men’s go-to pattern?
Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post, and I did not receive this pattern or any compensation it, it’s just really great and I wanted to let you know.
This looks awesome! I love Thread Theory patterns. I have a few of their patterns, including the Camas Blouse for myself but have yet to make it. I have such a hard time committing to a fabric… I might have to add the Finlayson to my collection as well 🙂
I’m so glad you like it Ashley! I was going to try the Camas – but I’ve got about 8 patterns for me on the go… so I’d better wait. If you make it I’d love to know how it goes for you!
Hi Sherri,
Catching up on your great posts 😉 Love the Easter shirt 😉 I would love to sew one up for my sweet pea next year. Love the photo shoot with your hubby 😉 I have only sewn cotton pant liners for my sweet baboo 😉 It’s great to see the indie pattern companies emerging, making their way. I won’t make the Festival as it is tax season, funny how it always happens in April. All the best to you though and look forward to some photos. Tula Pink just keeps getting better 😉 Take care.
Thanks so much Ann! Argh with tax season. I guess it will be over soon. Maybe you can make the Fall Creativ? It’s bigger anyhow 🙂 Thanks so much for all of the amazing feedback. I always really appreciate your comments.
Great sweater! I’m glad your husband is so happy with them :). Thanks for the dress shirt request – I will add it to my always growing list of pattern ideas! Any specific features that you are looking for?
Happy sewing!
Morgan
Thanks so much for checking it out Morgan! Hmmm… dress shirt. Slim fit with a collar stand, aside from that I’m not sure. 🙂 The one I’ve used in the past is BurdaStyle’s Jakob and the fit is too baggy for what my husband likes now. Thanks so much for keeping it in mind! I’m excited to hopefully work on some Jutland pants someday for my husband as well.
A great sweater Sherri! I realy like the front of the hood (that part at the collar). I’ve never sewed something for my husband. Don’t you need a huge amount of fabric to sew something for men? I’m a bit afraid of that.
By the way… your eldest daughter realy has her fathers eyes! 😉
Thanks so much Mirjam! The crossed front is amazing – you’re right. It’s my favorite part of this pattern. The yardage is quite high – up to 3 yards for a shirt. I try to get them on sale 🙂 And make a muslin from something that doesn’t matter first!