You know I really love Fibremood magazine. It offers us several issues a year packed with sewing patterns for women from size XS to size 60 for most models.
The current edition, issue 29, is an exceptional batch. I adore many models like Alberthe, Dasha, June, Khloé, Inès... so many gems!
After much thought, I chose to start by sewing the Alberthe top.
So, here we go!
The model I chose: the Alberthe top
Alberthe is a dress or a top with a twist, a faux wrap effect.
Alberthe features a high neckline crossed at the front.
Clips on the side seams ensure a fitted cut, and the left side seam has an invisible zipper, making it easy to put on.
The straps at the back are straight and comfortable.
Practical information for sewing Alberthe
Alberthe is a top from the Fibremood issue 29 (year 2024). It is available in paper version in the magazine you can find in physical stores and on the webshop.
Alberthe is rated difficulty level 3 out of 5 by Fibremood. It is perfect for intermediate sewers or confident beginners and will be a fun piece to make for more advanced sewers.
It is graded from size XS to XXXL, which corresponds to size 32 to 60. The most important measurement to consider for this top is the bust circumference, ranging from 76cm for XS to 146cm for XXXL.
The Alberthe model itself is quite short, just under 58cm for the XS version and up to 73cm for the XXXL version. It ends around the upper hips depending on your body shape. If you want a longer version, I recommend using the lines provided for that purpose to have a top that covers more at the hips or even switch to the dress version!
In that case, don’t forget to check your hip measurement!
In the sewer’s basket
- fabric
- good quality sewing thread matching your fabric
- fusible interfacing/lining: max. 55 cm
- an invisible zipper: 40 cm for the dress or 22 cm for the top
- a hook and eye if needed
Poplin, cotton twill, linen are good options for a clean-looking Alberthe. For a more fluid top or dress Alberthe, choose a soft fabric with a nice drape, like double gauze, seersucker, chambray, lyocell or viscose poplin or crepe.
My supplies
I chose to use a beautiful 3m coupon from our joly coupons collection. I really liked the pansy pattern and the orange color that suits my complexion well.
I selected a 22cm orange invisible zipper and white fusible interfacing H200.
I also used my serger and therefore white thread cones to neatly finish all raw edges.
Technical points of the model
As I mentioned earlier, Alberthe is rated 3 out of 5 by Fibremood, and that’s no coincidence because it includes quite a few technical details.
One difficulty I identify is that the front is asymmetrical, which affects the assembly. You must not make mistakes in assembling it or you won’t be able to get into your top.
To sew Alberthe, you will need to:
- sew darts
- make straps
- assemble facings
- create asymmetry with clever assembly
- insert an invisible zipper
- sew a hem
My sewing experience
I enjoyed sewing this asymmetrical top. As I said in the technical points, the front assembly is clever, creating a "faux" wrap effect. I really like the shape it gives.
I didn’t have major difficulties assembling the top, but I did have to refer carefully to the front assembly to put it together correctly.
I chose to sew the smallest size, XS.
For adjustments, I had to shorten the straps by 2cm at the back. I also had to reduce the bust by 4cm even though it was the smallest size, so if you have a small bust, I recommend making a toile.
I didn’t make one, so I had to use a seam ripper to remove my zipper and redo my top!
The length was just perfect.
I really like my top, which I find very elegant.
I can’t wait to continue making other models from this Fibremood issue! There are so many beautiful patterns! Are you tempted by the lovely Fibremood models?
If yes, find it in store and on the webshop here.
Get your needles ready!
