Hello! The Toaster Sweater Pattern has been updated and Curvy sizing has been added as well! This very well known pattern has been out for awhile now. I recently sewed the Toaster 2 (with Minerva fabric) and finally sewed a Toaster Sweater 1 with the pattern update. I’ll be sharing about the Toaster 1 in this pattern review.
Pattern Description:
“The Toaster Sweater #1 is a high neck sweater or sweatshirt designed to keep you toasty and stylish in the cooler months. This closer fitting, semi-cropped sweater is at it’s best when sewn up in thick, stiff knits with some body to keep the neck standing upright. It features raglan sleeves, a tall waistband and sleeve cuffs as well as a loose T-neckband. The semi-cropped length lands at the high hip.
The Toaster Sweater #1 is a very quick and easy make that looks casual in a standard sweatshirt fleece (with stretch) or in a sweater knit with some body for a more elevated look.”
Pattern Sizing: Standard Sizing – Bust 31”- 47” (79 cm – 119 cm), Curvy Sizing – Bust 43.5” – 61.5” (111cm – 156 cm)
Did it look like the photo/drawing when you finished sewing? Yes! One item I wanted to note (that I learned from making this pattern) the Toaster Sweater is intended to be a top not a sweatshirt. You could wear a slim fitting base layer underneath this top but the design intent is a more fitted top (not an oversized sweatshirt). I did not have a top like this in my wardrobe and I really like wearing it!
Were the instructions complete and easy to follow? Yes, although I was a part of the pattern test group so if I see areas that needed clarification, I communication so in the test group setting.
Fabric used (did you use the suggested fabrics in the pattern)? Yes. I used a lovely navy, double layer wool/cotton sweatshirting fabric (that was available in the Sew House 7 shop).
The pattern’s fabric recommendations:
“Sweatshirt fleece is an obvious choice for the Toaster Sweater #1 but be certain that that your knit fabric has at least 20% stretch going around the body. Sweatshirt fleece often doesn’t have much stretch at all. It isn’t mandatory to look for lycra content in your fabric, however, you can be sure that the fabric will have enough stretch if it does contain lycra. I prefer fabrics without lycra for eco friendly reasons, however, if you are purchasing knit fabric online, you may want to contact the seller to ensure that there is at least 20% horizontal stretch in the fabric. My favorite Toaster Sweater #1 versions are in wool stretch knits, however they can be difficult to find. Other fabrics that work are ponte and mid to heavy weight French terry (with 20% horizontal stretch). The Toaster Sweater #1 would also be brilliant made from upcycled, deconstructed medium to heavy weight sweaters. Again, just be sure that your knit has at least 20% stretch going around the body and that it is stiff enough that the neckband will stay upright.”
Did you alter the pattern in any way? No
Was there anything you disliked or would change? No, I really liked the pattern as is!
Would you sew it again? Yes! I will say that the fabric you pick makes a big difference to the finished garment. I would be particular if I sewed it again (as I was with this version) and pick a nicer stable, knit fabric. Being more selective with your fabrics is totally worth it. The wool/cotton fabric that I used for my version is a really nice fabric base!
Would you recommend it to others? I would!! This has been a very popular pattern! Having made one and worn my version a lot now I can see why!
Do you consider the pattern beginner/intermediate/advanced? Advanced Beginner (sewing with knit fabric)
Does the pattern include layers for easy printing? Yes!
Seam allowances used in the pattern: 3/8” (10mm)
Is the pattern cut or no cut pages? Cut pages
oak blue designs 