I often find myself wanting a top that’s as comfortable as a t-shirt but a bit more sophisticated… and that’s why I designed the latest Cashmerette pattern, the Dartmouth Top. It’s a cross-over jersey top that’s as cosy as your favorite tee, but polished and chic enough for the office or a fancy brunch at the weekend.
The Cashmerette Dartmouth Top
The Dartmouth Top has two views: view A has a ruched front, and view B has a flat front. Pick whichever you prefer, or make a pair! And there are three sleeve lengths: short, three-quarter, and long. It has a narrow gape-free neckband so you don’t have to worry about accidental exposure.
The Dartmouth Top looks great made in jersey (rayon, cotton or silk are all great options), or light to mid-weight sweater knits, and can be dressed up or down depending on what you make it with! It’s “Advanced Beginner” level but it’s a totally do-able project for an adventurous beginner, and a quick evening’s sew for a more advanced sewist.
As always, the Cashmerette Dartmouth Top comes as a beautifully printed pattern, or an instant gratification downloadable PDF (complete with at-home and copyshop versions). And, it’s designed for curves, in sizes 12 – 28 and cup sizes C – H (not sure what size to choose? Check out this post!).
Wondering how the Dartmouth compares to the Appleton Top hack?
- The Dartmouth Top has a fixed cross-over front, while the Appleton is a “true” wrap (i.e. opens up like a robe)
- The Dartmouth Top has a higher neckline
- The Dartmouth Top is constructed differently, and has less negative ease
- The Dartmouth Top has a narrower neckband, and the ruched front option
Cashmerette Dartmouth Top Kits
And, like always, we have some kits for you! We found three fabulous rayon jerseys that are a great match for the Dartmouth Top. Left to right there is a purple/yellow plaid (so pretty in person!), blue hatch, and a rich burgundy. The kits come with the fabric and elastic you’ll need, and the option of a printed or PDF pattern.
We hope you love your new Dartmouth Tops – my testers told me they’ve been wearing theirs all the time! As always, make sure you tag us with your makes on social media: add #DartmouthTop and we’ll be sure to send you all the heart eyes. And, keep an eye out for the sewalong coming soon.
Yeah ! Another Cashmerette pattern! And it’s just in time for pay day, too! You ladies are awesome and so appreciated. So, here’s the $64 question for you . . . how dark is the burgundy color? The reds always seem to look different on the internet than in person. I am looking for a dark red, somewhat purple-y. Thank you.
Thanks, Mary! It’s pretty dark red – it’s very similar to the Pantone colour “Marsala”
I don’t have a server. Is it possible to use what they call a knit stitch on a regular machine?
Yes, the instructions assume you are constructing the top on a regular sewing machine.
This is absolutely lovely and I can’t wait to make it! I have made up most of your patterns and they are always winners! Thank you for designing such flattering and fun garments! By the way, I’m 60 and I think they are still great for me and my family agrees!
Love this top. Would it be suitable for nursing mothers? Is the wrap part able to be pulled aside, or is it sewn down? Thanks!
Yes, it’s definitely suitable for nursing!