A tale of two (Eucalypt) tanks

I’ve started making Outside Clothes, starting with two copies of the Eucalypt Tank, Curve range!

I made the first version from some white linen I had hanging around, purchased either from Fancy Tiger Crafts or Joann (can’t remember which). The second is sewn up in Spruce Viscose Linen—and each tank has its pluses and quirks.

Planning & cutting

The first Eucalypt Tank I started in September 2024. Based on my measurements, I fall in the overlap between straight sizes and the Curve range. I opted to go for the Curve version because the pattern has darts and I wouldn’t need to make a full bust adjustment—this tends to be where I’ll need a little more space.

I ended up cutting a size 18 (I miss you, vanity ready-to-wear sizing).

Construction & darts

This tank is interesting because you can whip up the body of the tank top pretty quickly. 80% of the construction time (hello, Pareto rule) is spent on the bias facing for the neckline and armsyces.

This was my first time sewing darts, and oh boy I was intimidated at first!! YouTube, however, is such an asset to crafting knowledge. This video on darts was quick and instructive; I referenced the first method. After a little bit of thinkies about which way the fabric was supposed to fold, I was able to sew the darts! On the first linen tank, one of the darts was a little twisty underneath, but my second attempt was pretty clean actually.

Bias facing

Attaching the bias facing was a bit more involved, and one of those steps that I need to visualize vs read about in a pattern. Luckily the pattern maker has a blog post about attaching bias facing, including a walkthrough for the Eucalypt Tank.

The neckline is where I can really see how the two fabrics differ. The linen looks nice and crisp along the neckline, whereas the linen viscose is drapier overall, and the neckline looks maybe a bit stretched. I am sure a good portion of that is user error, as this is my first time working with a drapier fabric than linen or cotton.

Regardless, I am super proud of both tanks and can’t wait for my next sewing project. Shall I sew something with buttons? Attempt knit fabrics? We shall see!