It’s high summer and what could be more perfect for the hot weather than a lightweight cotton tank? I’ve been making tons of these tanks for my wardrobe this spring and summer, so it’s time for a new pattern! I’m happy to announce that the Gemma sewing pattern will be ready soon is now here!!

My goal was to create something simple based on the basic block I used to make Beatrix and Josephine, with the goal of getting the same great fit (or better!) in a pattern that is quicker and easier to sew and takes less yardage. I also wanted something that would teach the basics of women’s garment sewing (bust darts, curved hem, bias binding) that I could use eventually for teaching a basic bodice-fitting sewing class, locally in Ann Arbor or maybe even online. So I took some of the things I loved from those patterns and played around even more with the fit — personally I think the fit is even better than before — and the result is Gemma!

Gemma has two neckline options, a shirttail hem, and bias-bound arms and neck. I love that you can tuck it in or wear it out — and Gemma again includes two front bodice pattern pieces for A/B and C/D cup sizes (just like Beatrix and Josephine). Gemma is easy and quick to sew, so it was the perfect choice to be my next Presto pattern (in a nutshell, my Presto patterns are simpler and cheaper, but feel free to click that link for more details). The neckline shown on the pink tank is the scoop (lower) neckline. I made this pink tank using Alison Glass’ Handcrafted cotton (I purchase her fabrics directly from her shop), and the navy Liberty of London pencil print came from Dry Goods Design.