NEW SIZES for Gemma!
Hurrah, hurray! Our Gemma tank sewing pattern has been updated and is now available in a new size range, among other things!! Gemma joins Ruby, Cleo, Garnet, and Citrine in our most inclusive size range which includes fourteen sizes (A-N) and is designed to fit chests 32-66 inches [81-168 cm] and hips 35-70 inches [89-178 cm].
Gemma was one of the first patterns I launched after I started expanding our size chart into plus sizes back in 2016, but I'm excited to now offer this popular design in our newest size range, with even more sizes than before.
In case you’re not familiar with this pattern, Gemma is a basic pullover tank featuring a shirttail hem and options for a high (jewel) or low (scoop) neckline. It’s a classic design that is great for both hot summer weather or all-season layering. See more on the Gemma page.
WHAT’S NEW?
A fresh new look, metric, layers, and a projector file!
Even though the main reason to update Gemma was to add new sizes, we've also updated the entire pattern to give everything a fresh new look. Other additions include metric for all of the charts and instructions, LAYERS for all of the pattern piece files so you can select just the size(s) you need when you print them or have them printed, and Gemma now comes with….drumroll please…a PROJECTOR FILE so you can project the pattern pieces if you have a home projector setup!! I’m especially excited about this last one, and can’t wait to explain how that works for those of you not familiar with how sewing projectors work…it’s pretty cool.
Adjusted pattern pieces and fit
As usual, I couldn’t resist the tweaking the fit, so I did make some adjustments to the pattern pieces, including the size and location of the dart on the front bodices (Gemma has always included two different front bodice pieces for smaller and larger chests), and widening the shoulder strap widths slightly. You may also notice that there is a bit more ease built into the tank than in the original pattern, though that will depend on which dart (larger or smaller) you use. In the old pattern, the larger dart bodice had a lot more ease than the smaller dart bodice in the same size, which was a pet peeve of mine. I corrected that in this version; now they have different amounts of room in the chest, but the same fit through the waist and hips, if that makes sense.
NEW cropped length option
I added a new cropped length cutting line to this pattern in addition to the (original) regular length. Both lengths have the classic curved hem. I’ve experimented with cropping Gemma in various ways in the past and I love this new cropped curved hemline. It’s an easy way to make Gemma with a bit less fabric, and looks especially cute paired with high waisted bottoms like Cleo and Rose. If you’d prefer a flat cropped hem instead, we’ve got a tutorial for that here.
What’s the same?
With the Gemma update, you get the same classic tank design that made it one of our most popular patterns as before. Gemma is quick to sew, perfect for layering, and fits beautifully into your wardrobe no matter the season. Just like the old version, the updated pattern includes two neckline options for the front bodice - scoop (lower) and jewel (higher). Gemma still comes with both print-at-home and large-format (A0 for print shops) pattern pieces, clear step-by-step instructions, and access to a buffet of Gemma-related tutorials on the Gemma page.
GET INSPIRED…
I gathered a handful of folks to try out the new pattern pieces and I was delighted by all of the fun lovely versions that they created. Take a look at a few of the versions of Gemma that they made, in a variety of different sizes and fabrics…
Tiffany of @tiffanymakes created this beautiful white linen Gemma. I love how soft and comfortable that washed linen looks. So many fabulous outfit possibilities!!
Amy of @modernpearlco made two gorgeous versions: one with a colorful botanical print - a cool crisp linen from Seams here in Michigan — and another with a versatile chambray. I love seeing how she wears her Gemmas with her jean jacket and Citrine cardigan!! Amy says: “Loving the fit of this pattern. The length is just perfect.”
Asmita @elephantinthestudy made two gorgeous versions using beautiful kalamkari and sangenari fabrics from India. Here’s what she had to say about Gemma, plus her fabric notes:
“I fell in love with Gemma when I first made it a few years ago. At that time, at the beginning of my sewing journey it had that perfect level of difficulty--just what I could manage and yet sew something that looked polished but was easy to make. My old Gemmas don't fit me as well this year since my size has increased, so I was happy to make a couple more using Rae's updated pattern. This time I could make a few modifications that suited me (especially in the armhole area) and I am happy to say that I have a lovely top to wear all summer long. My favourite part is actually the jewel neckline--I feel it adds a certain level of sophistication to an otherwise simple tank and makes it looks chic while being so simple to make.”
“My first one (shown below) is in two fabrics — kalamkari, which is a handblock printed vegetable dye fabric, paired with green linen. I wanted the back to actually be symmetrical but I cut the kalamkari without leaving any seam allowance by mistake and thus had to make up for that by cutting an extra 1/2" on the green linen. The effect is unexpected but I quite like it.
My second one (shown above) is made with sanganeri fabric. Lighter and slightly diaphanous, but a fabric perfect for our summer and currently humid weather.”
Jessica @jessicawaldegar sewed up three fantastic Gemmas; when she sent over her photos she said: “I’ve actually made a ton this summer and have been living in them. I forgot how much I loved a simple woven tank. Thanks for the wonderful reminder.”
And here are her fabric notes, in case you’d like to make something similar:
(Above) The teal check is 100% cotton, Robert Kaufman kitchen window woven, from Sew to Speak.
(Below) The black & white color block is two-sided double gauze purchased from Style Maker fabrics a few years back; same fabric just reversed on half to get blocked effect. The copper version is a double gauze from Blackbird Fabrics.
What if I already purchased Gemma?
If you already purchased the Gemma PDF from my shop, I’m offering free access to the update for just over one month. I’ve automatically sent out updated links to everyone who purchased Gemma in the past; click the download link for free access to the update. If you don’t see the email in your inbox yet, please check your spam folder and make sure you’re using the same email you purchased the pattern from. You can also click the original download link provided when you purchased the pattern, if you have it. IMPORTANT: Please save your new Gemma pattern right away, as free access to the update will expire* on September 30, 2024.
If you purchased the pattern from my shop and didn't receive an automatic update, please hit reply from your purchase email receipt and I'll get you set up with a new link.
*Due to my limited work hours this fall and the fact that I no longer have an administrative assistant (Jess!) to help fulfill update requests, I am limiting the amount of time that I will send out free updates from now until the end of September 2024. After that time, please repurchase the pattern from my shop for access to the update.
Gemma has always been one of our best-sellers, but now it has more sizes, a new look and features and is better than ever. I hope you love this pattern update! Please spread the word, tell your friends, and buy the pattern to support this and future pattern updates!!
PS. If you made it this far, get the Gemma pattern for just $10 ($2 OFF) from now until August 31, 2024 by entering code YAYGEMMA at checkout.