My First Coco

Hi and thank you for paying a visit to my blog. I just wanted to write a short post because I’ve just finished my first Coco by Tilly and the Buttons and I’m so excited about it!

I don’t think there is much I can say about this pattern that hasn’t been said before but I can confirm that everything you have probably read about Coco is true. This pattern has gained almost cult status in sewing circles, appearing time and time again on social media, blogs and vlogs. It regularly tops the charts in top five beginner and jersey pattern round ups, and I really wish I had joined the Coco club sooner. For Coco is not only super flattering but it’s also really easy to make, thanks to Tilly’s clear instructions.

I’d been umming and anhing over whether to buy the pattern for months, as my unmade pattern pile  is already huge. However, after seeing versions by Lizzie B and The Craft Pinup, I knew I had to have it.

As soon as it arrived I traced out the size 4, which equates to a UK size 12, and rummaged through my fabric stash to see if I had any suitable fabrics. Right at the bottom I found a large piece of black stretch velvet my Aunty Adele had given me a few years ago. I’m not a big fan of black but I love velvet and, as it was a two-way stretch, I thought it would be a good choice to test the pattern.

I thought I would get more wear out out of a velvet top than a dress so I cut out the the top version with three quarter sleeves and the funnel neck. Tilly’s instructions are for the sewing  machine but I used my overlocker for the majority of the garment. Next time, I think I will use my sewing machine for the funnel neck as it gives you a bit more control. The only reason I didn’t this time was because my fabric frayed/malted when cut so I needed to finish the seams. This isn’t necessary on most jersey fabrics – trust me to choose a tricky one!

I finished my top in an afternoon and I am so pleased with it. It fits like a dream and the funnel neck has a 1960s vibe which I love. I can’t wait to make the dress version and I’m already on the look out for suitable fabrics. I like the idea of making one up in a mustard ponte roma fabric like Lizzie B but adding the ruffle sleeves using The Crafty Pinup’s YouTube tutorial.

Here are a few more pictures of my finished Coco. I hope you like it!

Lizzie

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