Embellished bodice - done!

I got the bodice part done for the ensemble I am making for Fashion Sans Frontieres. I used the contest on Pattern Review to get me going on it. Terrific Tanks...about using your creativity on a basic tank or shell pattern. You can see the work which was submitted here.

Front view

Back view

When you enter the contests, you have to do a review of the pattern/project. Here are the questions and answers for mine.

Pattern Description:
Basic shell with radiating pin tucks around front neckline.
Pattern Sizing:
approx. 12-14 UK

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
This is what I had in mind when I drafted it for the Terrific Tanks Contest.
This will be the bodice of a wearable art ensemble for a fashion show this coming summer at the Festival of Quilts in Birmingham, UK.

Were the instructions easy to follow?
I hadn't drafted a back facing because I thought I would just do a narrow hem edge. But when I decided on an exposed zip at the back, I realised I needed a facing in order to deal with the top of the zip, so had to do a bit of after the fact sewing it in. Other than that, it went as I had expected.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I rotated the bust dart to the neckline and split it up. I wasn't sure if the centre dart would work...the dart allowance was from the top edge and angled towards the bust, but I wanted to sew it straight down the centre. I thought it would give the extra room and still work. I was quite pleased that it did work very well. I thought it would, but still had doubts till it was actually sewn.

I really enjoyed the opportunity of having the radiating pin tucks to embellish with beads. I used variegated thread to top stitch (using a triple stitch) in different places on the top. This, too, gave a chance to add beads in a regular pattern by counting the stitches, as along the back zip.

Fabric Used:
I used Cherrywood quilting fabric which has been in my stash sometime.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I had originally cut the top with the back on a fold. I don't know the measurements of the person who will wear it as it will be decided on the day, so I decided to give another option for embellishment by cutting down the back and adding an exposed zip. It can still be put on over the head, but it makes more options for the person getting into it.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
I like the idea of something simple to play a supporting role for an ensemble with a few additional embellishments. But it can also be used with a statement fabric to be a feature.

I will probably use this pattern again as a jumping off place for future wearable art ideas.

Conclusion:
I think I will take my own bodice block and create a similar pattern to build on for my own wardrobe.

Detail of the embellishments
front

back

Oh, and I might just add a few more beads to this for the show. Can't have too much bling in a show!