Summer and Winter Grainline Hemlock Tees

One weekend before my European vacation, I went on a Hemlock sewing binge to work through some of my old fabric stash. I made 2 tunics to wear with leggings (already shared here) and a short-sleeved and long-sleeved variation.

Here’s my short-sleeved one, which is really just the bodice with no sleeves attached:

I still had some of this super-drapey grey heathered jersey left from my Disney Plantains and the Hemlock is a perfect top for it.

The only alteration I made was the bring the side sleeve notches/armpit area up by 1 1/2 inches so you wouldn’t be able to peek at my bra underneath when I raise my arms.

I’ve been loving all of the Penny Raglans that have been popping up in the sewing blogosphere (Sallie-Oh and Mads, I’m looking at you!). But I couldn’t justify spending that kind of money on such a simple pattern when I could make my own knock-off with the free Hemlock pattern. I know they have their differences, and let’s be honest, I’ll probably end up buying all of the Grainline patterns eventually because I have finally taken the bait and realized how amazing they really are for wardrobe staples. But for now, let me enjoy my Penny knock-off!

I’ve worn this pretty much every weekend since I made it. It’s perfect for throwing on and running errands, or just chilling at the house. I need more “flowy” shirts in my wardrobe because Tucson stays hot for about 8 months out of the year and I learned close-fitting tees just aren’t good for ventilation!

von P: “What’s mom doing?”  Caroline: “Shhhh… Just smile, nod, and walk away…”

This would also make a good fall transition piece by layering a cardigan over it with skinny jeans and boots. But alas, we are not even close to fall here as the temperatures sky-rocketed to the mid-90’s last week. WHYYYYY TUCSON, WHYYYYYYY?!!

When Tucson decides to cool down and not feel like the 7th layer of hell anymore, I’m ready to get cozy with my long-sleeved sweater knit version of the Hemlock:

I added an extra inch or so to the sleeves so they would be full-length instead of the originally drafted bracelet length.

I brought this on my vacation and it was perfect since the temps in Europe are *ahem* where they are supposed to be for this time of year!

The fabric is from SAS (as was the grey jersey above) and is a mid-weight sweater knit. It sewed up beautifully and is very comfortable to wear. This was sitting in my stash for probably 3 or 4 years, so I’m glad I dug it out and finally did something with it!

And, as usual, I was starting to run out of ideas for poses, so I busted out my trusty “high fashion model” pose:

And some kind of celebratory dance thing for making something so easy, fast and comfortable that frees up some space in my sewing cabinet for MORE FABRIC.

I’m thinking I’ll have another version of the Hemlock in the works before too long. Is this going to be my new “Moneta?” So far I’m at 5 Hemlocks, so only 3 more to go until I match my Moneta-making obsession!

Are you a fan of the Hemlock? How many ways have you made it or seen it made?

-RED

P.S. BONUS PICS! I attempted to take some blog-worthy photos in Strasbourg, France while wearing my sweatshirt Hemlock and Ginger Jeans. Enjoy!

A random mural while walking around town

Much love for the huge wine barrels ❤