Sunday, April 26, 2009

V8324

Here's one of my favorite blouses. Unfortunately, the photograph doesn't show it to it's advantage! I would like to have seen a photograph on the pattern envelope instead of a line drawing.


The pattern has a pleat at center back, fastened at the waist. Plain V-neck or with added ruffle. Short bell sleeves, or long bishop sleeves. I made the version with a ruffle and made a 3/4 length sleeve, adding a ruffle there also. It's semi-fitted with bust darts and vertical darts, front and back.

My blouse is made of rayon challis. I LOVE rayon challis. It's so drapey and soft. It's hard to find. I have a couple of pieces in my stash and at least one of them will become another of this pattern.

Linda suggested I describe how I made the ruffles on this blouse. I disregarded the instructions and made the ruffle I prefer. Patterns are just a starting point--a suggestion. Sometimes, I don't like their suggestions! The pattern calls for a double ruffle. That may work if using a sheer fabric, but in challis, the ruffle would be heavy and weigh down the front of the blouse.

To make the ruffle on both the neckline and the sleeves, I first determined how wide I wanted the ruffle, and cut a 3" strip of fabric across the grain. On each long side, I made a serger rolled-hem. I gathered the strip(s) on the machine with a gathering foot. making the gathering stitches 5/8" from the edge. The strip was ready to be sewn in place, to the neckline and to the sleeves.


It's a simple, uncomplicated way to make a ruffle. Here's a closeup of the sleeve:



This is a nice pattern. It's feminine and comfortable.

I have jeans cut out, ready to sew. Maybe I'll get going on those next week.

Have a great week.






















15 Talk to me:

Julia said...

Your blouse is great. I love rayon challis too. I have a couple of skirts made form it. Purchased of course since i don't sew for me, Yet! Or should I say anymore, because I used to make everything I wore.

Sharon Sews said...

I have that pattern! I tucked it away after purchasing it because I wasn't sure I'd like it. Your version just changed my mind - I LOVE it in that animal print. By the way, I'm also a big fan of rayon challis.

Linda T said...

Hmm, I really like that pattern--and I don't think I have it in the stash!

2BSewing: said...

Your blouse is beautiful. I like your version of the ruffles. I have this pattern curing in my stash. I just haven't found the right fabric.

Anonymous said...

Gorgeous!! LOVE the pattern and the fabric you chose!! Enjoy the compliments.
Warm greetings,
Rhonda in Montreal (PR)

Patricia said...

That is one cute blouse! I love both rayon challis and leopard prints. Do you have a photo of yourself wearing it that you could share?

Ann Made Studio said...

I love it. It looks very feminine and stylish.

BCN - UNIQUE designer patterns said...

This blouse is another hit, sure. I love animal print. a strong contrast with the femininity of the model.

good week for you too,

Paco

Meg said...

I like this blouse very much! Nice work.

knitmachinequeen (KMQ) said...

Gwen I love your blouse and think that the photo displays that beautifully!

Jean said...

That is a very pretty blouse. I like the way you made the ruffles --- a serger must be indispensable --- I wish I had one! I've also wondered whether a gathering foot was worth investing in. Looks like it comes in handy.

Cennetta said...

Pretty blouse. Thanks for the instruction on how to make the ruffle.

Anonymous said...

Nice blouse. Blouses are my favorite to sew. I like the idea of serger ruffles...I need to get over my serger fear!

Tany said...

What a lovely blouse!!

Pam Erny said...

Just love this blouse, Gwen! Lovely!

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