
This is my second time working with a Trish Newbery pattern, and once again, I’m thoroughly impressed. The Talia Wrap Sweater caught my attention with its unique crossover front and curved hem—both practical and stylish features. One of my goals this season has been to sew garments that blend comfort with work-appropriate structure, and this design nails that balance beautifully.
Often, professional style and cozy fabrics don’t go hand-in-hand—but the Talia manages to deliver both. It’s the kind of piece you can wear all day, whether you’re at your desk or out for a crisp fall walk.
Pattern Features and Construction Notes
The instructions are mostly text-based, with step-by-step guidance that assumes some prior sewing experience. That said, Trish includes helpful visuals specifically for the thumbhole cuff option, and there’s a video sew-along available if you prefer a visual walkthrough.
This pattern has a refreshingly minimalist layout: just five pieces—two front panels, one back, and two sleeves. The design includes a drop shoulder, front wrap layers, and optional scoop neck or hood styles, plus two sleeve finishes (a standard cuff or a thumbhole version). If you opt for the thumbhole cuff, I suggest using lightweight ribbing to avoid bulk at the wrist.
I chose to make a size L for the shoulders, grading to a M below the bust using the finished garment measurements as a guide. The result is a flattering fit with just enough ease through the chest and arms, but still polished. For this version, I didn’t adjust the length, though I plan to add 5–6 inches for a coat-style version in a heavier knit next time.
Infinity Scarf Hack
I’m a fan of cozy, high-neck garments—but instead of choosing the hooded version, I opted for a scoop neck and made a matching infinity scarf using leftover fabric. This simple addition adds warmth and style, and when worn together, the scarf blends seamlessly into the sweater’s design.
Here’s a quick how-to for the scarf:
- Cut a piece of fabric 60″ x 20″, with the stretch running along the length.
- Fold right sides together and serge the long edge to create a tube.
- Turn the tube halfway right side out so the raw edges align, making sure the fabric isn’t twisted.
- Stitch around the raw edges, leaving a 2″ gap.
- Turn the scarf fully right side out through the gap, then hand-sew it closed.
If you’re new to making infinity scarves, Hello Sewing has a great video tutorial you can follow.
Fabric & Fit
For this project, I used a textured rib-knit fabric gifted by Minerva as part of their Brand Ambassador program. It’s a double-knit blend of acrylic, polyester, and lycra with 30% stretch both ways. At 170 cm wide, the fabric was perfect for the large pattern pieces used in Talia. The subtle rib texture adds beautiful detail, and the fabric sews like a dream—smooth and buttery under the needle.
The structure of this medium-weight knit gives the sweater enough body to hold the shape of the wrap, but also drapes in a way that feels elegant and effortless.
Final Thoughts
I couldn’t be happier with how this make turned out. It ticks every box: comfort, style, ease of construction, and wardrobe versatility. I’ve already had several compliments—and I’m not surprised. This is the kind of piece that looks elevated but feels like a cozy hug.
If you’re also on the hunt for gear that balances strength and reliability for everyday sewing, check out singer heavy duty 4452 review – it’s a solid sewing machine for powering through knits like this one.
I’m already planning my next version using a heavier sweater knit in the hooded style. I can’t wait to see how it turns out.
Happy sweater sewing—
Because truly, There is Sew Much to Design.
0 Comments