Grainline Archer - My Favorite Save

I made a perfect Grainline Archer.  The sleeve placket and the collar were perfectly executed and topstiched.  I was so proud until I realized it didn't fit right.  This whole mess started when I realized I lost my master copy that I had worked on for over a year.  So, I figured I would just reprint the pattern and adjust for my wide shoulders. Simple right....not so much.  I have a habit of cutting patterns two sizes too big.  I think I know my measurements but clearly I need to get a clue.  Anyway, I tried to fix the perfect archer by taking in the sleeves and side seams like a mad woman.  In about a minute, my shoulder were too tight and the overall silhouette was too boxy.  With a sad heart, I put the shirt on my dressform so I could torture myself for the next couple of weeks.

After many days spent staring at the shirt, I decided to take the sleeves off to try and save it. I really did love the fabric.  Once the sleeves were off, I could see the armholes came down to my waist (okay, maybe the botton of my bra but still).  I figured I could, at least, wear it camping or hiking with the dogs if I could just patch them up.  I pulled one of the sleeves out of the trash and patched the underarms matching plaids.  I added an inch and a half on both sides. It may seem crazy but it kinda worked so I started hoping.

I knew I wanted to try a sweatshirt fabric for the sleeves because they needed to be a stretch fabric since the shoulders were so tight.   My super smart mom suggested a men's XXL sweatshirt from Walmart.....brilliant!  So, I cut the sleeves from the sweatshirt sleeves then I cut a hood (Waffle Tosti Pattern) from the main body fabric.  I hoped the hood (which is just for show and not really usable) would balance the sleeves and it did.  I used the sweatshirt waistband for the sleeve cuffs and it all fit pretty stinkin well!

It is far from perfect but unless you are checking out my armpits super up-close, the patch job is not noticable.  The hood is removeable and I snap it on backwards to limit the bulk but once again not noticeable.  All in all, I think it is a pretty decent save.  I wear it all the time and not just for camping and dog walking.

Right armpit

By the way, I also tore my sewing room apart and found the orginal master archer pattern.  It had fallen behind the drawer in my pattern dresser. I jumped around with happiness and then moved it to a very safe place.

Left armpit