Winter Look: Love Notions Whistler
Pattern Stats: Whistler Pull-over
Pattern designer: Love Notions Patterns
Pattern level: 3/10
Time start to finish: 2.0 hours
Suggested fabrics: Knit fabrics
My fabrics: Brushed waffle knit from Mily Mae Fabrics; Floral Rayon French Terry paired with brushed waffle knit; Ditsy Leopard French Terry from Mily Mae Fabrics
Options: Shirt, tunic or dress lengths; Shawl collar or hood
File Types Available: US Paper, A4, A0 and projector
Notions needed: 1 larger or 2 5/8" buttons; scrap of knit fusible interfacing
Price: $12 regular price
The Whistler has been updated and is ready for a new debut! I've had my eye on the Whistler for a few years and actually purchased the pattern in January 2020. If you are anything like me though, I love collecting patterns and can often take a while to sew it up. Come January 2021, a year later, I made my first Whistler. I used a brushed waffle knit from Mily Mae Fabrics and absolutely the end result. This Whistler was made before the update so you may see some minor differences but overall the pattern stayed the same.
The original Whistler was drafted as an outer layering garment and heavy weight fabrics. For my first Whistler (pre-update) I chose to size down based on the fabric I was using being a light to medium weight. This was a smart choice since I wanted this to be worn as a tunic on it's own, rather than a layering piece.
The signature hidden in-seam pockets are still apart of the pattern. When you use a busier print, they just blend right in.
Both the shawl collar and hood necklines were kept with the update. I absolutely love a shawl collar so that's what you'll see I've been making. It's so cozy and warm around the back of my neck especially in this large cheetah brushed waffle.
Now what did this update entail? Small tweaks were made as the pattern was redrafted to the latest Love Notions block in addition to expanding the size range from XS-5X. The curved hem hemline was removed but a new dress length was added. Let me tell you, that new dress is perfect for winter! While I've opted for medium weight fabrics on all the Whistler's I've made, this pattern can definitely handle the heavier weight fabrics. What that means is it's great for thicker fabrics to wear as a cold weather garment. Plus I find the shawl collar wraps around my neck similar to wearing a scarf so if you choose a plush soft fabric for it, you won't need a scarf too.
My first Whistler with the new block (updated version) fit pretty much the same. I chose to add a contrasting collar and cuffs this go around. I sewed a size small and based on the finished measurements, didn't need to grade out for my waist like I normally would.
My fabric floral fabric is a rayon French Terry I've had in my stash forever and I paired it with a brushed waffle knit I picked up from Mily Mae Fabrics last year. I opted for another tunic length version since it's the perfect length for covering my booty with wearing leggings.
You'll notice that the recommended notions include some buttons. The button closure is recommended but optional and can be whatever you'd like. In my brushed waffle Whistler above I used one large button where this floral version I added 2 smaller sized ones. I have quite a few antique buttons in my stash but chose to purchase these from Hobby Lobby since they are machine washable. If you intend to only hand wash your garment then an antique button would be a nice touch.
Last, but definitely not least is the dress! This is a new cutline added with the update and retesting of the pattern. I find the shape extremely flattering and the length hitting just above the knee to be a great winter length. I can see myself wearing this with high boots or leggings when it's cold or just as easily in the fall with short booties as I am below.
For the dress I chose a rayon French Terry from Mily Mae Fabrics. I bought this fabric in the fall with no plans in mind, just knowing I really loved the small leopard print. It's a very soft French Terry which drapes well. As for the button closure, this one is actually a spare coat button I found in my button bin. I'm pretty positive I don't even have the coat anymore so think using it now was appropriate. It's over an inch wide and makes a statement.
I know I've mentioned the pockets before but who doesn't love pockets?! The integrated inseam pockets are great for holding things on the go or those pieces of candy I sneak when sewing. These pockets are part of the pattern construction and not optional so you'll get to enjoy them too.
While it looks like I've shown 3 different versions of the Whistler, I didn't even give a full representation of the options available. There's a flat or gathered front (perfect for maternity wear), shawl collar or hood, and then the shirt, tunic or dress lengths. Plus you an even have a banded version if you'd like. If you usually would need an FBA, don't worry about that, the FBA pattern pieces are included!
If you are reading this on Friday February 5th, run and grab the Whistler while it's the Featured Friday pattern for $5. It's a steal of a deal for a unique pattern that you'll love as a winter layer. If you have any questions about my makes or techniques used to sew up the Whistler, leave a comment below.
If you've purchased the Whistler, there's no need to repurchase. Simply login to your Love Notions account and download the new file. It is recommended to download the new version as each pattern piece has changed slightly.
Happy Sewing!
Katie
My posts may feature affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase from these links, I receive a small percentage in compensation at no cost to you. I may have received patterns or products to test or review but the opinions I voice are my own.
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