Pattern Description:
Button down blouse with collar, sleeve, and pocket variations.
Pattern Sizing:
I sewed the 10.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Well - no. It looks suspiciously like V8857. That is because I am a great big pattern ripper-offer!
Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes, very basic.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
This is a very basic and straightforward pattern, very easy to embellish or modify.
Fabric Used:
Polyester matte jersey, from fabricmartfabrics.com. I got it from the clearance page for $1.99 per yard. Although I love the color and the way it looks, it feels a bit yucky to wear as is the case with synthetics. Note to self: buy natural fabrics from now on. Oh, who am I kidding? I love all fabric. Polyester is machine-washable, and doesn't wrinkle - it has its place. I probably will wear a camisole underneath, though.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
Life has been very busy for me lately - the holidays were jam packed, and work has been crazy. Hence, when I had a rare free weekend afternoon, I decided that I would knock off V8857 with the patterns and fabrics I had in my stash. If I had to order patterns and fabric and then wait for them to arrive, I would just not be able to sew these days.
I used the bodice and sleeve pieces of B5678 (without pockets, obviously). I gathered the sleeves at the bottom instead of the pleat. I used the neck ruffle from V1187, shortened to 12 inches in length, and 2.5 inches in width. I finished the edge of the ruffle with a rolled hem. I used the placket from V8747. I liked its curved shape and it seemed more similar to the blouse I wanted. I omitted the collar and cuffs, and did a bias strip like binding instead.
Here is the blouse on me: On me, tied On me, open at top
I couldn't resist adding this photo of me on my way to work the next morning. You can see the sleeve vent detail in this pose: V8857 pose, sleeve vent detail
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
I probably won't sew this particular frankenpattern version again - my desire for a blouse with this look has been fulfilled. However, I do like the Butterick pattern a lot in general, and have made it twice before this, and I might try some of the other views at some point.
Conclusion:
A staple pattern. I'm happy with this experiment, and will wear the product to work tomorrow with jeans and a jacket. |
What an amazing "pattern ripper-offer" accomplishment! You did a great job and it looks fantastic on you!
2/1/13 0:33 AM
Oh how lovely on you.
2/1/13 0:56 AM
Great job piecing together this pattern. Your blouse is beautiful!
2/1/13 1:02 AM
Very nice blouse. Feminine and classic.
2/1/13 1:26 AM
Looks beautiful on you :0)
2/1/13 2:52 AM
Wow, great job! Its looks so lovely on you.
2/1/13 3:00 AM
That is a lovely blouse! The fabric seems to be perfect for this style. Great job.
2/1/13 5:29 AM
Fantastic pattern mash up! Super cute on you and it fits you beautifully.
2/1/13 6:43 AM
What a successful experiment! Please make again :)
2/1/13 7:42 AM
WOW you did a fantastic job on your blouse, looks fantastic on you.
2/1/13 9:17 AM
I have admit that V8857 is tempting to buy even though I have all the other patterns you mentioned and can totally see coping what you did. Beautiful mix to create this blouse, I just love it. I agree on the poly I feel the same way I love all fabric and poly is so easy to care for and it does have it's place, thanks commenting on your thoughts :)
2/1/13 9:57 AM
Thanks, everyone!
2/1/13 10:11 AM
This is perfect on you...the style and colour is just so lovely on you.
2/1/13 5:47 PM
Oh, wow! I agree with everyone! Great melding of patterns for a sweet blouse. I love it tied at the neck, so feminine and soft. Great job!
2/1/13 5:57 PM
Gorgeous! Just GORGEOUS!
2/8/13 0:35 AM
Lovely! and really suits you.
5/14/13 2:42 PM