So SEW Simple
Monday, July 07, 2014
I've clearly caught the bug for wearing red since sewing up my little red Lilou. I used a lazy Sunday afternoon to make a bright red version of the Lottie blouse by Simple Sew.
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The pattern came free with the second issue of Love Sewing magazine, which is a pretty good read. You should a still be able to pick up copies of it, and if not, then there are plenty of other patterns available to buy from Simple Sew here.
I chose to the sleeveless version, just for the sake of making something speedy to jazz up my work wardrobe. I was also really feeling the need for that sense of 'finished garment achievement', so it was a good quick fix. The front and back pieces are both cut on the fold, and there are no fastenings to faff around with. Just 4 pattern pieces altogether, and one of these is just to make a bit of matching bias binding. There are very few pattern markings either, just bust darts and a few notches - I was really pleased by this because I hate transferring markings.
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I used a lightweight cotton-mix fabric (not sure what mix, but it's quite drapey and was easy to handle) in a bright red poppy print. I was worried that the print was a bit Per Una/granny chic, but I bought it anyway - I guess I'll just have to go with it now. Also there is a lot of dressmakers dummy spam in this post. Sorry I'm just still so excited to own one and put it to use! Here is a lovely Instagram shot of my cut out fabric draped over it...
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I've never made my own bias binding before, but it's a bit of a revelation. Look at the nifty things that I learnt to do with the neckline!
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The matching binding gives such a lovely finish. I'll have to remember this technique. I might even invest in a bias binding maker - I could totally bust a load of scraps and spruce up the hems on all my clothes at the same time. It's a bit of a shame that the nice neckline finish is mostly covered by the pussy bow tie of the blouse in the end.
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That's probably the trickiest thing about the blouse. Attaching the neck tie is really simple if you follow the instructions, though I think I'd choose to do it a little differently next time. The raw edges of the neckline are hidden by the neck tie, but not concealed to the inside the garment. I pressed the raw edges upwards and tacked to the neck tie so they don't go escaping.
Next time, I'll probably leave an opening in the neck tie and sew the raw edges inside of it. It looks like Daisy Jones of Lazy Daisy Jones chose to do it this way too with her lovely version.
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The pattern didn't have an indication of finished garment measurements, so when my bust measurement fell in between a size 12 and a 14, I decided to go for the bigger size. I did want it to be a bit oversized as I'll be wearing it tucked in high waisted skirts and trousers, but it is pretty roomy. I would consider making it a size smaller in future, and possibly take in the shoulders a little.
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