Cheap as chips top

It's my second Alma top! (See my first version here). This time I made View A, with a small piece of broderie anglaise which I picked up from a remnant bin for a mere £1! The whole project including the invisible zip came to no more than £2, and hence the name. 

I love a good bargain -- look how pleased i am with myself!

Back view

Second time round, this pattern just keeps on giving! It's such a breeze to make -- as I've said before, the pattern is so well drafted and without needing any alterations for me, plus the instructions are incredibly clear to follow. What's not to like? Hats off to you again, Tasia, for creating such a great pattern! The sleeve construction is different for all views -- I particularly love how the armhole binding is created after the cap sleeves are sewn on. If you don't know what I'm talking about, perhaps it's time to see it for yourself by trying out this pattern ;)

The last step in the pattern called for thread belt loops, and I thought I would share that I used the wonderful tutorial here. It worked a treat!   

You might be able to tell in this photo just how delicate the fabric is -- it is super soft and with all the stitching and holes on it, I think I shall resort to hand washing this top as I really want this to last! I used a thin machine needle for this project, and have also reinforced the side seams with silk organza selvage before the zip is inserted. 

And finally with the belt. I actually think I like the top both with and without the belt. What do you think?

So here we are, my second Alma top, and I have a feeling that it isn't going to be my last!