The Maggie Tank - Sonia Estep Designs

Tank tops are one of those pieces of clothing that you always need on its own or as a layer. It is also one of those things that, at least in my experience, I don’t always remember to get more of until I am in NEED of a new tank top. That changes today! One great thing about sewing as a hobby is that I now can make a new tank whenever I want! With having more time on my hands due to the ongoing events of 2020, I have started taking part in more pattern tests which are great opportunities to get in some sewing!

The Pattern

I had the pleasure of being part of the Final testing for the Maggie Tank Top from Sonia Estep Designs this past weekend which is a spin off (or hack) of another one of their patterns, the Magnolia tee.

This pattern is being released to celebrate not only Sonia Estep Designs 1 year anniversary, but also marking a major milestone of 5k members in their pattern group.

The Maggie is being released at $8, however, you can get this pattern for FREE if you join the Sonia Estep Designs Facebook group! and grab the coupon code. This tank top is a great pattern for any sewing skill level and a perfect first project for a beginner! Did I mention you can get it for Free??

Now, back to the actual pattern. The Maggie Tank is designed to be more fitted through the bust and hips with a straight or curved hem for options. I decided to make one of each since you really can’t have too many tank tops. One great thing about this pattern is how easy it is to make. Very beginner friendly.

The Fabric

The Maggie is designed to be made with knit fabrics with at least 20% two way stretch which provides a lot of options depending on the feel you are going for. I happened to have some Double Brushed poly on hand from Sincerely Rylee Fabrics that turned out perfect for this. But other fabrics that could be used include Bamboo (I fully intend on making one with this base!), French Terry, Cotton Lycra, and Rayon Spandex to name a few.

Because I went with Double Brushed Poly, it is super soft and comfortable, but I found it to be more fitted all over.

The Process

One thing that I really loved about this pattern is how many options there were for printing/assembly which is the case for all Sonia Estep Design patterns. The option I have been going with lately is either A0 (large format) or projector files to save time by not putting patterns together. If I didn’t have the option to use either of these, I would be able to select from two options to print and assemble the pattern, Edge to Edge printing and Trimless Overlap.

Personally, I am a projector convert and will always use projector or A0 file if they are available. I am a huge fan of my Wowoto A8 projector because it is small, easy to calibrate, and has a remote that adjusts the focus! A bit of an investment, but it saves me SO much time and I am able to go from purchasing a pattern, to cutting, to assembly in next to no time. I cut out all pieces for the 2 tank tops in less than 10 minutes using the projector method.

After cutting, the tanks took no time at all to sew up using a combination of my serger for the four main seams and my coverstitch to both hem and add a nice finishing touch to the bands on the arms and neck. While not required, I would say that took me the longest time as the Juki 1500 is still new to me! Without finishing the arms and neckband, this tank would be done in less than an hour from downloading the pattern to final assembly easily. Perfect for a quick win!

Adjustments

Now I actually didn’t make any adjustments for this pattern as I usually prefer a more fitted style for my tank tops. I do think that I will either grade to one size higher in the hip if I use DBP again, or try out this pattern with a more drapey fabric such as bamboo. I found the sizes to be quite true to measurement (I was a size 6).

Final Thoughts & Informaiton

I thought this pattern was very easy and an amazingly quick sew. Because it is free, it is an excellent pattern for someone who is just getting into sewing but doesn’t want to buy a pattern just yet. How can you say no to FREE?! I highly recommend this pattern for all skill levels and as a quick win to get your sew jo back.

Also, Sonia Estep Designs is having a SITE WIDE SALE this week to celebrate their 1 year anniversary! 40% off all patterns?! Definitely check it out while you get your FREE pattern 🙂

Pattern: The Maggie Tank from Sonia Estep Designs

Fabric: Mily Double Brushed Poly from Sincerely Rylee Fabrics