SWEATER CARDIGAN | MCCALL'S 7476
When I tell you my excitement is through the roof, there is no exaggeration. Oh my GOODNESS!!! This sweater cardigan with matching pants and top had me squealing like a little girl when I saw them together. BUT, I didn’t just stop at three pieces. Nooo… I went and created an entire mini wardrobe capsule. Somebody pinch me, please, because I am in love with ALL of it. Get comfortable because this blog post is full. I can’t wait for you to see all the pieces, and how I mixed them together. But first, let’s get into the details.
Cardigan Pattern Information
I wanted to sew another cardigan and had originally planned to use the same pattern I used for THIS CARDIGAN. But, I changed my mind and decided to use another pattern that I’ve sewn in the past. In 2019 I participated in a Day & Night Dress Challenge. We had to pick a dress from our closet and sew two accompanying pieces to create both a day and night look. I made View B of McCall’s 7476 in a lightweight, Striped Sweater Knit. I used Butterick 5359 (out-of-print) to create the faux fur, night-look vest, and added a matching purse. Here are my looks below. I don’t know who I gave these pieces to or where I donated them, but I sure wish I still had them in my closet now. I may have to recreate the cardigan and vest for sure.
McCall’s 7476 is a Learn to Sew pattern, designed for beginners. If you have basic sewing skills, you should be able to complete the cardigan. It is semi-fitted with a single button front closure. It comes with length and collar variations. Views A and D have a banded collar, while Views C, D, and E have a shawl collar. The pattern is available in both print and PDF, with a size range of 4 – 26. It is sized for moderate stretch knits only.
I sewed View B and extended it to the View E length. I love long cardigans (dusters). Here are some closeup views of the cardigan, inside and out.
Pants Pattern Information
Unfortunately, the pattern I used to make the pants is out of print. I’ve had McCall’s 7415 in my pattern collection for a long time but never made the pants until now. They’re so comfortable. Here are some closeups of the pants. (UPDATE: I’ve been informed by a reader that this pattern has been re-released as Butterick 6851.)
McCall’s 7415 is a semi-fitted shorts and pants pattern. It has length variations, a center-back invisible zipper, side darts, with no side seams. View A is a pair of shorts. View B is wide leg pants, and Views C and D have straight legs.Β
The suggested fabrics are Crepe, Gabardine, Ponte Knit, and Jersey. You may be able to find the pattern online through a Google search, or perhaps Etsy.
Fabric Information
The fabric suggestions are; Sweater Knits, Double Knits, Sweatshirt Fleece, and Cotton Knits. I used this beautiful Zinfaandel, Cable Sweater Knit fabric that has completely stolen my heart. Burgundy is one of my favorite colors to wear and this one looks so rich and vibrant. Β I’ve made several other garments with this type of fabric and there are more to come because I purchased other colors. It feels amazing on the body, Β has a nice drape, and washes up well. I’ve washed and worn a couple of other pieces I made with this fabric and they look the same – no peeling or fuzzies. After washing, I lay the garment on a flat surface to air dry.
Skirt Pattern Information
The skirt is actually the same skirt I made HEREΒ with Simplicity 8982. Because the length of that skirt was shorter than I typically wear, I decided to use the leftover fabric to add a flounce for length. Oh my goodness! What a great decision because I absolutely love this skirt now. I was never going to wear it again at the shorter length. The new skirt is totally my style.
Top Pattern Information
After sewing several Nikko Dresses by True Bias, I finally made my first top with the pattern. I never need another mock turtleneck pattern because THIS IS IT! The pattern is perfect in every way. This is a beginner-friendly pattern, so if you have basic sewing skills and like wearing this style, it’s a must have. You can see the dresses I’ve made with the Nikko pattern HERE, HERE,Β HERE, and HERE. I used a Brushed Poly Knit and it’s super soft.
Notions Information
The only notion required for the cardigan is a 1″ button. You will need a 7″ zipper and hook and eye closure for the pants. I omitted the hook and eye by extending the zipper to the edge of the waist. There are no notions needed for the top.
Alterations Information
I cut a size medium cardigan and did not have to make any alterations. If I sew the pants again, I will definitely increase the rise because I like for my pants to sit higher on the waist. I cut a size 6 pants and I like the fit. But the waist was a bit loose for my liking. Therefore, I created a casing with the facing and added elastic for a more snug fit. Β For the top,Β I cut a Size 8 β bust; Size Zero β waist; and Size 8 β hip. But I ended up shaving down the hip by a lot, maybe 4 inches. It’s a great fit.
Styling Options
Okay, let’s have some fun. When I saw the vision in my head for this collection, I knew it would be fabulous. But after I finished and looked at all the pieces together, they were exactly as I pictured them in my mind. I still get butterflies when I think about all the outfits I can create by mixing these 6 pieces. I came up with 10 different looks I can create. But what I really want to know is how many looks can you create with these pieces? One of our SEW Sisters on the Anita by Design Facebook Page said she saw 11 outfits. Okay, LaToria, we’re waiting to hear from you. I want to know what that 11th look is so I can implement it in my styling. Hahaha!
STYLING WITH PANTS
The pants and long sleeve, mock turtleneck, are styled with matching pumps, crochet wristlet and pearls. Classy and comfortable is what we’re going for with this look.Β
I decided to make a sleeveless Nikko Top also, for days when the weather is a bit warmer. So, I can take the pants into spring by pairing them with this top.
I layered the outfit with the cardigan for more warmth and an additional touch of elegance. Adorning the cardigan with my “Jesus Rules” pin is everything to me. Oh my goodness!!! I love this look beyond words.
STYLING WITH SKIRT
I really can’t pick a favorite because I love all the pieces, but this SKIRT!!! Oh! My! Word! I will definitely make another one. I’m so glad I had leftover fabric to lengthen the skirt because the flounce really took it to the next level for me. I wore this outfit to a speaking engagement the other day and I felt so smart and polished. I’ll share photos with you at the end of this post.
Once again, the cardigan creates a classy vibe for the entire look. Can you imagine wearing this to work with the long sleeve top? It was raining on the day of the speaking event, so I wore my cardigan from the car to the inside of the building. Removing the cardigan once inside, knowing that my outfit underneath was gorgeous, made me so happy. Then pulling on my cardigan to go back outside after the event was over felt so good.
Styling with Dress
As I was sewing the cardigan, I knew I would wear it with this dress that I made Β previously. These two pieces together are a winning combination. I keep saying elegance, because that’s exactly what I feel in these pieces.
Whew! There’s something about that matching belt with this look that just sets it off.Β
Wearing the Looks
As I mentioned earlier in the post, I wore three pieces to a speaking engagement this week. I was invited to speak on a panel for the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in my town at their February Lunch & Learn Meeting. I was asked to share “Keys to Enhance Communication.” What an honor it was to share information with local entrepreneurs that we can implement to equip us for success in our businesses. I wore the skirt with my long sleeve top, and the cardigan. I chose to wear my black boots because it was raining. It was great for the occasion and I was comfortable the entire time. This was the first time I’ve spoken at an event where men were present. My audiences are always women only. I was quite surprised that the men were buying my book as much as the women. Here are a few photos of the event.
What do you think?
Now, tell me, which cardigan look is your favorite below? And which outfit is your favorite? And don’t forget to tell me how many outfits you were able to create with the 6 pieces. I would love to hear your feedback. Scroll to the very bottom of this page to leave a comment.
Thank you for stopping by today! π
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This Post Has 46 Comments
Anita-
For pants, did you chose Wide or Straight leg? I love the cut of yours!!! Also, exciting news. This pattern has been reissued as Butterick 6851!
I made the wide leg version. Oh my goodness! Thanks for the information about the pattern being re-issued.
Love the outfits and the color. I love the pants outfit the best but you look fabulous in them all.
love the pants and long jacket the best
Going looking for that jacket pattern it is just what I have been looking for
Thank you
I love all of these. The style the material all simply beautiful. I canβt choose one. Iβm adding the material and patterns to my Joann run for next week. Where can I find the Nikko pattern and number.
Hi Charlotte! There’s no pattern number for Nikko. That’s the name of the pattern.
Always excellent sewing! They are all wonderful. I especially like the skirt and cardigan.
Love them all, sorry I canβt pick a favorite π€©
β€οΈβ€οΈβ€οΈ
This is a hard one to just pick from because I love each one, but the skirt with the cardigan may have just a bit of an edge.
You broke the bank here.every piece looks good
Happy wearing.love it.
.
Theyβre all great outfits. My favorite is the dress with the cardigan. Thanks for sharing.
Totally gorgeous and classy!!!
Truly a blessing in all your doing. I absolutely love all the looks. They’re classic, timeless and regal. Continued blessings!
Telichia
Loved it all!! The skirt with ruffle was my favorite!
So wonderful Anita ! You shine through this talent the Lord has given you!
Your ensemble is outstanding!
I am loving all of these styles. Simply gorgeous!
Hi Anita, thank you so much for sharing all these wonderful pieces – you look absolutely stunning in them and beautifully co-ordinated. I found it so hard to pick a favourite, but I have to say the skirt with the flounce is fabulous.
It is because of you that I started sewing last year. I always wanted to, but never knew where to begin. I live in a very rural part of Scotland in the UK and there are no sewing classes anywhere near me. I was watching YouTube one day and your tutorial for a circle skirt for beginners popped up, which is how I found you and subscribed. I made the skirt and then the Simplicity Jersey dress with the sleeve ties, which I absolutely love. I’m so proud of them and still can’t believe I actually made them! I couldn’t have done it without you and I have asked for your sewing course for my birthday later! I love that you explain everything so clearly and why you are doing a step in a particular way, which really helps. Watching your blog posts of your makes is so inspiring and something to aim for.
Thank you so much for all the time and hard work you put into all you do.
Lots of love and best wishes from Jill xx
Wow, Jill! You have blessed my entire heart with your message. Thank you so much. I’m so happy that the YouTube video popped up that day and you were able to learn how to sew. And I’m thrilled that I got to be a part of your journey. I’m praying that you get your birthday wish too. Lots of love to you also, my SEW Sister.π
No words Anita. Ok, a few. Beautiful, elegant, gorgeous, sewing machine drop (not π€ drop). π Awwwesommm!
Okay, I love the “sewing machine drop.” π So funny! I may have to use that one. Thank you sister.
How stunning every piece is and how gorgeous you look in that color. Perhaps I overlooked it, but where did you purchase the fabric? I already have the skirt pattern, but never thought of adding a flounce. What dimensions did you make it. Everything is beautiful!
Hi Marilyn! Thank you so much. I cut the flounce double the width of the skirt and added a few inches. I cut 18″ for the length and folded it in half so that the folded edge is the bottom hem. I hope that helps.
π₯°Love every piece!!!
ππππππ
Wow, Anita!
You have found the formula for elegance: simple lines for the designs + monochromatic color = CLASSY
All of your combos are stunning; it’s impossible to choose a favorite. I learn ‘sew’ much from you every time.
You are inspiring in how you live your life and in your sewing! Thank you for sharing your joy with us.
Thank you so much, PJ! I’m so happy to have you here. I’m glad you love the collection.
Pick a favorite – seriously? This elegant collection is so gorgeous and so ideal for the cooler weather that Iβm screaming, too!!! Burgundy is such a rich color and the accessories β burgundy shoes, black boots, pearls, Jesusβ pin, silver jewelry and burgundy purse β coordinate beautifully with the looks. Plus, you topped it off with burgundy nail polish! The flounce gives the skirt a personality of its own. Iβm curious; is the fabric doubled for the flounce or is it a single layer? Either way – I love it!! Your eye for fashion, sewing skills, level of creativity and enthusiastic spirit keeps the sewing circle on fire. Itβs like each sew is dedicated to the Lord. Thanks so much for sharing. Keep stepping, Sew Sister!!!
Aaahhh!!! Thank you so much, De! You even noticed the nail polish. I love your attention to detail. I cut the flounce 18″ long and folded it in half so that the folded edge is the hem. I hope that answers your question.
Yes, thanks!
Hi Anita,
I think I miscounted in my head π€£π€£, my apologies. There is NO 11th look.
This wardrobe is EVERYTHING! I love the color, I love the pieces and I love how you can change the looks. You did a fantastic job as usual.
This wardrobe needs to be in a high end store display window.
LaToria!!! ππ€£π That’s so funny! I was really trying to find that 11th look. Thank you so much, my SEW Sister!
OMG everything is gorgeous, I can’t tell you which look I like best because I love them all. You are an absolutely amazing sewist and so inspirational.
You are truly Gifted and Blessed!!!3
Thank you so much Ginger!
Ms Anita….Wow! You look amazing and like always, such precision with construction. You and your talent put “ready-to-wear” to shame.
Thak you so much for the inspiration β€οΈ
One question, I’m guessing you used the Babylock Euphoria for the triple needle cover stitch? I’ve been eyeing that machine for quite sometime as I have the Evolution that does everything but, as you know, requires re-threading and changing needles every time I want to go from serging to cover stitch. How do you like the Euphoria? Is it simple to use and sews bulky knits smoothly? Any cons that you’ve experienced?
Thanks so much for all you do π
LittleStitchy
Hi Tonya! Thank you so much. The Euphoria doesn’t sew garments together like a serger. It’s more for hemming and decorative stitches. You can sew a garment with it but it doesn’t cut the seam allowance and it gives you two or three rows of stitching, depending on how many needles you’re using. If using only one needle, you get a chain stitch which I don’t think is secure enough for garments. I hope that helps. I would use it to sew workout gear and swimwear because the multiple rows of stitching works well on those garments.
OMG… I absolutely love them all. You’re awesome Anita and I love that you always give us every detail.. Thanks so much, the inspiration is well needed. Have a Wonderfully Blessed Day.
You’re very welcome. Dorothy.
Anita, what can I say girl. Youβre the bomb, that collection is FANTASTIC.
Thank you Audrey! I love this collection.πππ
Great project. I really like the choose of fabric and the style
pieces to make a different wardrobe. Thank you for sharing .
Thank you so much, Velvetta!
Wow Anita, just wow!!! The fabric, the color, the impeccable sewing is everything. You did that!!!
I have to take another look to see what other outfits can be created. I’m looking for the 11th outfit too…..lol.
I think I will try the mock turtleneck pattern. Great idea to add the flounce to the bottom of the skirt!!
Thanks as always for sharing
Thank you so much, Lynette! I’ve been trying to figure out that 11th look. The only thing I can come up with is layering the long sleeve top under the dress. Hmmm… I can’t wait to hear what LaToya says.
Wow! I love all the pieces. But I think the skirt with the ruffle trim is my favorite. All the combinations look fabulous!
Thank you, Liz! I’m so in love with the skirt too.