Thank goodnes
I have really enjoyed making it, and it was a straight forward project, but I do have a small confession, I originally planned for this blouse to have long sleeves, but due to my lack of concentration I hadn’t noticed that this fabric was only 110cm wide, not 115cm and so had to revert to making the short sleeve version as I didn’t have enough material. Probably more practical for the summer anyway, so all’s well that ends well.
The fabric, (which was gifted to me by Minerva as part of their Ambassador program) is Art Gallery Fabrics Little Forester Fusion Cotton Poplin – Among the Pines and I’m totally in love with it, I think the little deers are adorable . It’s 100% cotton so will be perfect for summer days and it feels really lovely when you wear it. I’ve been a big fan of Art Gallery jerseys for a long time but this is the first time I’ve used one of their cotton poplins and it certainly won’t be the last, they really do make the most amazing quality fabric. This one washed really well and was an absolute joy to sew. Being a cotton poplin it kept its shape after pressing and being medium weight made lovely boxy forms on the sleeves.
The pattern I used was New Look 6871, combining different elements to make my blouse. The main body is view B, but I preferred the yoke front of view D so used that instead. I also liked the trim idea from view A on the bodice so incorporated that as well.
I used the bodice size to match my high bust not full bust as my shoulders are quite narrow and then graduated the side seams out to account for my larger waist and hip measurements. As the front has a lot of ease and is gathered I didn’t need to do my usual full bust adjustment . I was pleased with the back length as it comes down low enough. I quite often end up lengthening blouses to ensure that they cover my back sufficiently. I have found that one of the main problems with ready to wear clothing for me (and probably a lot of other wheelchair users) is that I am left with an uncovered lower back, (one of the hazards with being seated all the while) which is rather draughty and uncomfortable. No such issue with this blouse and view D would be even longer.
Overall i’m very happy with this top, the only thing I’m not 100% satisfied with is the direction of the print on my sleeves. I’m not sure what has happened here as although I couldn’t follow the cutting layout due to the size of my fabric I paid particular attention to my grain lines (or so I thought). But I do seem to have ended up with wonky trees and deer at odd angles. From the side it doesn’t look too bad but from the front it’s quite irritating.
I will definitely make this pattern again but will probably try one of the different views next time.
#MinervaBrandAmbassador, #MinervaMakes, #MinervaMakers,
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