The Sommar Camisole pattern by Paradise Pattens has been on my to-do list since it came out. Tees and tanks are my biggest wardrobe need with Southern California weather but I hadn’t found a tank pattern that I really loved. The Sommar Camisole changed that for me! I honestly love this pattern. Sewing with knits has never been a problem for me (I actually learned with knits!) but I think this pattern could suitable for beginners also. It also requires very little fabric, so it’s a great scrap buster!
Fabric + Sizing
My first wearable Sommar Camisole is made with a bamboo spandex knit from Blackbird Fabrics. I toiled this pattern with a cheap jersey that was high stretch without very good stretch recovery. That toile did not turn out well out all! The neckline and straps were really overstretched and the top looked terrible. I’d definitely recommend a knit with good recovery and one that meets the minimum 50% stretch percentage.
My measurements put me between a size C and a size D. I made the decision to size down thinking that it would be okay given the fabric stretch. However, I wish I had sized up. The size C might work better for me with a really high stretch fabric, but I think sizing up in the future will allow for a better fit overall.
Sewing the Sommar Camisole
This tank is so easy to sew! I absolutely love when a pattern doesn’t have plackets, butons, collars, etc because it means I can finish faster. This one doesn’t have any of those tricky pieces and it doesn’t have sleeves either! So easy! The hardest part is probably making sure that the straps for the neckline and straps are evenly stretched as you sew, but that’s easily solved by marking halfway and quarter points. All of these details are walked through in the pattern and there are even detailed recommendations for what stitch lengths to use. I love a well written pattern and this definitely qualifies!
Final thoughts
This is my first wearable Sommar Camisole and it certainly won’t be my last. I have a ton of fabric scraps from my Nikko Top addiction that will be perfect for making more of this pattern. I’m so excited to layer these with sweaters and wear them on their own for beach days!
