The Itch to Stitch Uvita Top comes from one of my favorite indie pattern companies. Aside from a having very thorough instructions, Itch to Stitch also has a few freebies that are not just hastily thrown together patterns (though they are very beginner-friendly). Case in point the Lindy Skirt. And also this Uvita Top.
*Housekeeping: some links on this page are affiliate links, meaning that I get a tiny commission from purchases you make using them, but it doesn’t cost you anything extra! If I like them, you might too!*
Uvita Top
The Uvita Top is a relaxed, dropped-shoulder top that is designed for maximum comfort and style. The minimalist style is a blank canvas that is perfect for showcasing your interesting fabric. You can choose between the long sleeve or three-quarter sleeve, too!
I chose the full long sleeve version, though I am a big fan of three-quarter length sleeves. I almost made that version instead, but I’m haunted by my red Archer turtleneck. I made that one with the shorter sleeves and regret not having full sleeves on it!
Size Chart
Sizes go up to US 20. This equates to bust/waist/hip measurements of 46/40.5/48″ (117/102/122cm). It’s not the most inclusive range. But because this is a boxy style, it’s rather easy to size up.
I also appreciate that full finished garment measurements are given, which isn’t always the case with patterns (indie or Big 4). This includes back length, which I thought was going to be a little short for me. Silly rabbit.
I made a size 16 with a 2″ full bust adjustment.
Fabric
I used a cream colored faux cable rib knit with 40% stretch. It’s part of Joann’s Endless Sea collection, which is in the store but not currently on their site. Here’s a look at the bolt end. You can see it’s a poly-cotton-spandex blend, so it’s a bit more breathable than, say, double-brushed polyester.
I bought it last May for 60% off. It’s back to full price now.
PDF Criteria
Here is how the PDF stacks up:
- Layered sizes: yes
- Colored lines by size: yes
- No trim pattern: no
- Prints to edge of paper: no
- Print layout included: yes, page 5 of the instructions
- A0 available: yes
The PDF prints centered on the page, so you do have to trim two sides to get the pattern to line up properly. This can be tricky if you’re like me and use a paper trimmer to do multiple pages at once. But it does save a little bit of sanity because none of the pattern lines are cut off (in the printer anyway). Kennis has a trick for her PDFs, which I haven’t tried yet but maybe someday.
I also appreciate that Itch to Stitch instructions give you the actual page numbers for the pattern layout. Not all indies do this and it pisses me off when I’m trying to print (I’ve actually complained about this when I pattern test, though I’m usually ignored. L’sigh). A tiled piece might be labeled 1 but the page number is actually 12. Kennis takes the guesswork out of it and gives you both the tile and page numbers in the PDF layout.
Pattern Instructions
The entire Uvita Top file is 29 pages long, including the 18 pages that make up the pattern. The actual instructions for construction are a mere 2 pages! All steps are illustrated with line drawings.
There are only 4 pattern pieces: front, back, sleeve, and neckband. The sleeves are put in flat, which is always easier than in the round (and the usual construction for a knit pattern).
The seam allowance is a hefty 3/8″ or 1 cm. I like this slightly larger seam allowance for knits I’m going to overlock together so I have room for error if my serger knife slips!
The first 3 steps of the pattern instruct you to apply stay tape to your necklines and back shoulders. This should be a given in almost all knit tops, but I love the added steps for the beginner.
I was surprised by the neckband instructions, as I thought it was just a regular band. No siree! It’s actually a facing, and it’s tucked under the neckline to create a very nice neat finish.
Pattern Notions
You will need stay tape. The pattern calls for fusible tape, but I only had the non-fusible kind on hand, so I used that.
Pattern Adjustments
Even though the pattern is boxy, I still wanted a little extra room in the bust. I knew if I went by my bust size (47″—which is off the chart) the shoulders would be too dang big. So I opted for my high bust size (44″) at size 16 (43.5″ so I rounded up) and gave myself a 2″ pivot and slide bust adjustment.
This style of adjustment adds more width than length, which was fine here because I didn’t shorten it my typical 3″ to start. It also straightens the side seams, so I knew I could simply take the excess length off the bottom when it was time to hem it. My boobs are bigger than my hips by a solid 2″, so I never worry about whether or not my hips will “fit.”
I did add my standard 5/8″ high round back adjustment and then cut the back bodice mirrored instead of on the fold. This requires adding a seam allowance to the back but I don’t mind this (it’s easier for telling the front from the back if I don’t add a tag).
The shirt feels really big in the shoulders, though the neckline is a bit smaller than expected. It’s not a true boatneck style on me, which I’m a little disappointed about. This is a simple adjustment though, and if I really wanted I could trim back at the shoulder seams. But I think I’ll leave it. I don’t want to redraft the neck facing this time.
In the side view, it still looks like I need more room in the front. I’ll also need a significant swayback adjustment to take off all that extra fabric just above my butt.
After all that, I did take 2.25″ off the length and 2.75″ off the sleeves. Next time I take off a full 3″ if I go with the long sleeve route again. You can see above the sleeves come past my knuckles.
Final Thoughts
I love the upgraded touch on the neck facing, and find that this style of finishing is consistent across all ITS patterns I’ve made. Kennis makes beautiful patterns that are usually very top notch.
Though the pattern itself is free, there is now also an add-on pack that is jammed pack with features:
- Unlined Hood with optional drawstring
- Floppy stand-up collar
- Sleeve cuff
- Sleeve cuff with thumbhole
- Flare sleeve
- Kangaroo pocket
- Patch pocket
- Bottom Band
If you have the skill set, you could draft these yourself. Or even borrow from another pattern in your stash. But for a mere $5 you can get all of these in one place!
What is your favorite boxy knit top pattern? Have you made the Uvita? Did you know that Uvita is also a place in Costa Rica?
Nice! warm, cozy and comfy! ♥
Try it on when you come over and see if it fits you better!