I spent a few days cleaning out my closet last week and soon realized that I had almost twenty casual knit shirts that were either too tight, too short, or too old. It appears the only tee shirts that I could find that actually fit were commemorating a 5K that I may or may not have ran in years ago. I was in desperate need of some plain, solid tees. But luckily, there are a few things that I keep in the house at all times: granola, avocados, bug spray, quarters for the parking meter, and 3 yards of solid white knit fabric. So when I saw this j crew ruffle shirt online, I decided rather than pouring more money into online shopping, that I could whip up a handmade version using a yard or two of my white knit. 
Half way into this creation, I decided to simply add a tiny peplum to create my “ruffle” look. It is a much more subtle ruffle than the inspiration top from J Crew but I figured with my hoola hoopin’ hips, I didn’t need to bring too much more attention to that general area. And let’s be honest: it was late and I was deep into a Netflix binge sesh of Parks and Recreation. I also sewed the peplum piece rights sides together, hiding my seams, but I think if I had sewed it WRONG sides together, exposing my seam allowance, I could have achieved J Crew’s ruffle look a little better. But alas I created what I wanted. A comfortable, wearable, plain white tee. 
The Details:
Sewing Pattern: Lark Tee by Grainline Studio (pdf or paper version found on Indiesew.com) I sewed a size 10 and did not have to add extra length to the bodice. I made the crew neck with the cap sleeve.
Alterations: added a peplum piece that was 4 inches in height and 1.5x the length of the shirt. Folded in half and gathered. Then added to the bottom of the hem line to create a “ruffle”.
Fabric Used: 1.25 yards of ponte de roma knit from Girl Charlee. I love the feel of ponte knit. Its a little heavier than a jersey but easy to work with and still has a nice drape and stretch.
This shirt will be my first wear on my “Me Made May” quest, where I will vow to wear at least one handmade garment every day in the month of May. I will not be blogging about all of my wears each day, but you can follow along on my Insta stories (@priscillatbrown) and see if I can make it all 31 days this month! xxoo Priscilla
