The Versatility of the Sorbetto

--Meredith

Some of you may be familiar with Colette Pattern's free pattern, the Sorbetto. Once you make one, it's hard to stop. The style is simple and classic and with two patterns pieces, it comes together quickly. I made one, then two...then three. I did eventually give one to my mom. Gotta share the love, right? I lengthened mine 2" though, I like my tops to a little longer.

You can easily make your own bias tape for finishing the neck and arm openings. The big key to that one is utilizing a bias tape maker. Clover makes an efficient one that I eventually invested in all the sizes of. If you've never tried one, it can be a revelation.

Feel pressed for time (or intimidated)? You can always grab a couple of yards of pre-made bias. We have both solids and prints available by the yard so you can get just the right amount. Here I used some pre-made in a darker shade of purple and I think it gives a nice finished, sharp edge that frames the simplicity of the silhouette.

The variations are endless. April took her time and cut her seersucker on the bias so the stripes would produce a chevron effect. Removing the pleat was necessary for this to work and is another nice variation.

What started as a "muslin" or test garment for April turned into, in my humble opinion, one of the cutest tank dresses ever. See what a little extra yardage can get you. I'm totally making one!

Don't forget to check out the Sorbetto Flickr pool to see what others are up to and add your own!

After we're all done basking in the summer sun, this fall we'll look at a more weather appropriate version with sleeves. Love the Sorbetto!