XYT Compromise
Posted: April 29, 2014 Filed under: Exercise, Garment a Month | Tags: Exercise, Garment a Month 16 CommentsAfter days of fiddling I have given in and just finished my Fehr Trade XYT top as a plain work out top – without the built in bra. It works brilliantly, but I still haven’t worked out how to make it sufficiently ‘bounce free’ for my significantly larger than the pattern was intended for bust. I am going to have another attempt when I am not so busy with client work but for now here is the finished plain garment. And I have to say I love it!
Finally finished!
The fabric is a 4 way stretch lycra that I had as a remnant in my stash. I honestly can’t remember how long it has been lurking so it feels good to have used it . These tops are incredibly frugal with fabric! I needed to take the sides in a little under the arms, and I lengthened the top as I intend this to be used for Pilates classes rather than running. It is too cold to wear this outside in the UK at the moment but I have hopes for the summer. I used black fold over elastic for the edges which I think gives a lovely contrast to the bright pink, and supports the edges so that they don’t stretch like mad (the fabric would run away without it). I had considered using my coverstitcher binder for the edges but ended up using a 3 step zig zag to attach the elastic, and used the coverstitcher for the hem.
I took a ridiculous length of time making this! Now that the pattern for the basic top is sorted I reckon I could have one cut out and sewn in about an hour – I will have to test that theory out on the next one I make. Unless ‘the girls’ come back down the alphabet significantly I can see that making a top suitable for running without relying on a commercially made sports bra is going to be a challenge. I would like to try again when I can give the project my full attention.
This is my April GAM offering – squeaking in just before the month end. I have no thoughts yet about what I will make in May but I do want to continue stash busting.
On another topic, it is now almost four months into 2014 and I can confirm that I am still sticking to my RTW fast. Nothing at all bought this year. Feels good 🙂
The Material Lady 
Congratulations on your RTW fast!
Great top. I just might have to give this one a try.
Thank you!
This pattern is great – and there are two more versions to try. Melissa also does a great leggings pattern (no I’m not on commission!)
I love your top – great job! I was not aware of Fehr Trade patterns – but with a relatively new commitment to running AND the RTW fast, I may give this a go! Thanks for sharing!
I thought sports wear might be a problem on the RTW fast but Melissa of Fehr Trade has solved that. If you aren’t as ‘busty’ as I am the built in bra is a great feature 🙂
I love the pink and black mix and the back is very cool too! Congratulations on your RTW fast!
You aren’t going to lose me in this are you? Unless it is a Race For Life in which case everyone is wearing bright pink 🙂
It’s very very bright, you won’t get lost. In fact you might be the one that others follow!
Looks great and I think I will be doing the same as you when I get around to making this, though perhaps I’ll try it both ways.
Let me know how you get on.
You do pilattes and run? Wow- sometimes I push my own grocery cart! You are a stylish hero in lycra!
Run might be stretching the definition…. (but I try!)
That top is so cool for coverage and style…one could even wear it for gardening or cleaning toilets…what I do when I escape the bridal gowns. Love the black elastic trim, it lays so flat! Great job!!! I admire you for running and Pilates!
Thanks Mrs Mole. I only exercise to try and keep my bones strong – osteoporosis in the family. I will probably be 4’6″ by the time I hit 60 😉
Congrats on sticking to your RTW fast and I must admit, your running!
The RTW fast is easier than running! (And I probably stretch the definition when I go out – I get heckled by the deer in the forest 😦 )
[…] XYT work out top (Details of my making it here, here, and here)was extremely comfortable, and I really enjoyed the sleeveless style on what was a very warm […]