Have you ever wondered how a design is created?- Me too (Just kidding ;-))...
The new Balloon Cardigan PDF sewing pattern started in a completely different direction. I was supposed to be a classic boyfriend cardigan in several lengths.
I made a sample, but unfortunately, I burnt a BIG hole on the backside of the sample one COLD evening while standing in front of the fireplace. (Note to self, don't stand too close to burning objects while wearing garments sewn from mystery fabric from the stash), I started sketching some different variations of the design, and I came up with this little drawing.
The WBM Core testers ( They are my favorite group of testers, always helpful and honest) knew that I was working on a cardigan, but their response to this one was just so overwhelmingly positive, that I decided to go in this direction instead. One of them asked if we could also make a version with a high round neckline.
Well, No doubt both were cute and very easy to style. I ended up sewing three in total, and I realized that the very roomy balloony silhouette would also be perfect for woven fabric. In woven fabric, it has more of a "Blouse" feel rather than a cardigan.
The Bishop sleeve on the Balloon Cardigan is such a big fashion trend for 2020 and I'm very pleased that we have managed to move on the look at such an early point in time.
We had a big group of testers, many made several cardigans, I think it has a unique combination of comfort while looking very feminine. The short-cropped version really enhances the waistline and the longer version is cozier.
When choosing fabric, be creative! Some testers made their Balloon cardigans in French Terry, and in my opinion, French Terry lacks some of the drama inherent to the design. On the other end of the spectrum, the very thin jerseys or fancy knits ads a very exclusive look to the Cardigan.
Lace and Rib cuffs Woven crepe with Scuba cuffs and hem
Velour jersey Single Jersey Cotton Lycra
The Balloon Cardigan sewing pattern can be styled with a wide range of PDF sewing patterns from WBM. Try it with The Easy pants, The Linea Aline skirt, or the Haute Skinny Pants
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