Pattern Review: Nivalis Tunic and Dress

Hello there!  I have another pattern from Sofilantjes today.  This was one that I did the pre-testing on it.  We went through a few changes before it went to the regular testers, and I think it turned out to be a very nicely written pattern.   It has several options to it, and it can be mashed together with the Hibernis tunic and top.  You can use the neckline and sleeve options interchangeably.

Name of the pattern: Nivalis Tunic and Dress

Pattern Source: Sofilantes

Sizes available: 12M – 14Y

Special materials required: Knit about 1.5 -2.5yds, depending on tunic or dress, optional buttons

Skill level required: Experienced beginner who isn't afraid of buttonholes (if you choose that option)

How you came to choose the pattern: I volunteered to pattern test it

Did you deviate from the pattern?  No

Good:

This is a nice tunic length top to use for colorblocking.  I really liked the hood option, and I did all of mine with that one.  There is also the buttoned cowl option, as well.  It went together super fast, and the pattern pieces fit together well.  

Her patterns are well laid out, and use illustrations.  At the end of her patterns, she has an all written instruction, and then all picture layout for the instructions.  In general, she does a great job in putting together a pattern and the instructions.  Very detailed.

Issues:

I didn’t have any issues with this pattern, but I did see a few people that seemed confused.  Those may be more their issues, than the pattern, so these are more things to watch.

When putting on the cowl, make sure the overlap is correct so it can button.  I have seen several photos where the overlap was going in the wrong direction, so the buttonholes were on the bottom and you would have to have the cute buttons underneath or just not functional buttonholes.

The cap sleeve was put on incorrectly for a few of the people.  There isn't really a picture of the cap sleeve, so that might be an issue on this.  It has an odd shape to it.  Make sure you match up the cap sleeve head to the regular sleeve head to see what side to use, if you are confused.  

Overall pattern rating:

This is a great pattern.  I think the waist tabs are a little too juvenile, but that may just be my taste.  I think the hooded option is probably the most tween friendly part of this pattern.

4.5 bolts for this one.  I think the confusing cap sleeve probably needs a mention.