A Betty Blouse

I've enjoyed reading the Simply Sewing magazine since I first discovered it a few years ago. On occasion, Simply Sewing offers free PDFs download patterns. Last year, it offered the Betty Blouse (sorry, it's no longer free but still available). It's a simple two piece blouse (bodice with a short all-in-one sleeve). The publication photo piqued my interest - really cute fabric - and when I looked closer, I got even more interested. Check out those fab pin tucks. I was hooked.

I printed out the pattern almost straight away and then it languished in a folder whilst I did other things (including some sewing 😉). Last week I rediscovered a piece of a pretty Japanese lawn in my stash (too cute for the remnant bin). I thought it would be a good wearable muslin. This was just the push I needed to get moving. I cut out and glued the pattern together really in one evening and cut it out within an hour (pre-washing everything before it goes into the stash helps with impromptu project decisions).

I was careful with the tucks. For the first time, I used a frixion pen. I marked the stitching lines and pinned them carefully and well as pressing lightly to keep the folds crisp. The lightweight fabric lent itself to enclosed seams. I decided to use flat felled seams on the shoulders and sides. There was a little bit of fiddling of the seams at the sleeves with the curve.

I had enough fabric left over to make my own bias. I find it quite therapeutic. The focus required to measure, position, cut and join is almost meditative. I made far too much for my needs right now but that's ok. Bias stash!

I'm really happy with the end result. Here's the final product on Dolly.