Okay so, I’ve already blogged about sewing the True Bias Nikko Top but I just love this pattern to much not to share my latest version. In this post, I’m mainly going to show how I used 3 different fabrics to color block the top. Check out my original post for more details on the pattern itself.
I had the idea try sewing a colorblocked Nikko a while back. I finally decided to go for it once I saw the variety of bamboo rib knits at Stonemountain Fabric. They have so many great colors, many of which go nicely together. I ended up going with a combination of yellow pink and white.
In order to decide how much yardage of each color to buy, I needed to figure out what colors would be assigned to each pattern piece and the desired look that I was going for. I wanted the white to pop, so I used it for just one of the sleeves. I also wanted the front and back to look different. So the pink would be the back and the other sleeve, the yellow would be the front and the neck. It was important to me that both the front and the back would show all three colors, so this arrangement worked perfectly.
I measured the pattern pieces before heading to the store to ensure the right amount of yardage for each piece. This amount will change depending on what size top you’re making.
Because each color has dedicated pattern pieces, unfortunately it’s not the most fabric efficient design. I ended up with a good amount of ribbing leftover, which I’ll be using for sweatshirt ribbings. The good news is: color-blocking is an excellent way to get rid of fabric scraps that you already have. If you have enough scraps of similar fabrics you can easily do a project like this without purchasing any new fabric! It will definitely work best if your scraps are either the same fabric or very similar in weight and drape. What a great way to get rid of scraps and reduce waste.
Color-blocking just a fun way to turn a basic style into a more unique look. The easiest way to achieve the look is to use different colors for different pattern pieces. However, you could also add stylelines to different patterns for additional color changes. If you’re interested in creating color-blocks in a pattern using your own stylelines but don’t know where to start, Oliver and S has a great tutorial.
Overall, I love how this top turned out. I’ve already got plans for more! Some great patterns that would be great color-blocked: Named Ruska Tee, Friday Pattern Company Ilford Jacket, Grainline Studio Tamarack Jacket, Papercut Patterns Array Top. I love mixing color + patterns, check out my color-blocking Pinterest board to see where I get my inspiration.
