I recently did a good spring cleaning in my closet. Taking inventory I found that I was sadly lacking in the cotton blouse department. I made the rounds to a few favorite stores and came home empty-handed. Everything was either poor quality or immensely expensive. So I set out to make A New Button Back Blouse for Spring.
A New Button Back Blouse for Spring
I checked the patterns I had on hand and made a visit to the fabric store. Nothing caught my eye. Then, while I was watching Season 1 of The Great British Sewing Bee I spied a blouse that contestant Tilly had made. It was offered as a “free” pattern HERE.
The Pattern
The pattern itself can be downloaded and printed out on any computer. The separate 8 1/2″ x 11″ pieces must then be fitted and taped together like a jigsaw puzzle. This was not difficult and took about an hour to complete. Here is a similar example of a finished PDF pattern for pants.
A British size 10 was used but I wish I had cut out a 12. (I am a 6 in American sizes.)
I use quotation marks around the word “free” because if you want the pattern instructions you must purchase Issue 22 of Love Sewing magazine for $4.99. A truly experienced sewist could probably figure out the construction steps on her own. I bought the magazine thru a Google app. The instructions were good and the purchase was worth it for me.
The Materials
The materials used for the blouse were all vintage finds from various flea markets and estate sales. I loved the 1930’s tic tac toe fabric and had just enough for the yoke of the blouse and four covered buttons.
Dressmaker Details
During the construction process, I found that the facing (interior fabric sewn around the neckline) cut from the pattern was not big enough. I reprinted those two pattern pieces and cut out a size 14 and it then fit fine. Perhaps this was just a pattern sizing error or even a sewing error on my part. I do have plans to make this blouse again very soon, so I will let you know.
I try to always include dressmaker details when I am sewing and bound the facing edge in vintage 100% cotton bias tape. The tape that is sold today contains polyester and is nowhere near as good in quality. I generally pick up bias tape for around 25 cents a package at estate sales. It makes me happy to see the flash of color.
Covered Buttons
My favorite look of the blouse is one that I cannot see when I am wearing it. While the pattern called for 5 buttons the covered button kits sold at the store only contain 4 buttons in the package. So I just spaced the buttons out at 5 1/2 ” and felt completely secure and covered. Covered buttons are VERY easy to make and add such a lovely touch.
Because I am planning to sew this blouse pattern again I opted to not bind the sleeves to a cuff in order to have a different look. The Bohemian/kimono style sleeve edge was simply hemmed.
A Giggle For You
As always, we can’t take ourselves to seriously here at DTA. So I’ll leave you with a Monday laugh. The addition of wind doesn’t always make everyone look or feel like a supermodel.
What’s new in your wardrobe?
Laura
Need To Know?
Both the cropped chinos from J. Crew and Sam Edelman sandals were purchased two years ago on clearance.
Hoop earrings, rings, charm and pearl bracelet are all vintage.
Your new top turned out lovely. Sitting here thinking of sewing a large vintage bedspread into pillow covers when I saw your post. I’m scared of sewing big squares, then I read how you made that lovely blouse from directions! I’m ashamed of my fear.
That’s really cute, Laura. I made a button back style work suit very similarly styled back in my work days – 2pc., skirt and top. I loved that outfit. You’ve got mad sewing skills, and use them very well!
That is So Cute!! I’m just jealous of your sewing skills! All the details and the fabric make your blouse perfect!
So pretty friend. Love the button detail.
You look adorable! Not only that but you are talented! Making the rest of us look bad, ya know…ha! xoxo
Such a pretty blouse you’ve created. I have one upstairs that needs just a little attention to finish it. But it’s just so cold here that I won’t be wearing anything summery for quite some time.
Laura,
I love button back blouses and sweaters. Yours is wonderful with the covered buttons.
Judith
Laura -that blouse is perfect. Covered buttons are even better. The bias tape inside is genius. Your garment sewing skills are to die for. I sewed my own and my children’s clothes back in the 70’s but got away from it in the 80’s. Last year , I made a top which fit and is pretty but this year my try at pants is not good so far. I’ve been quilting for 6 years which is a totally different art.form.
I can’t find clothes that fit or look good, so I’ll have to keep trying. Your top is just cool and comfortable. looking. Enjoy! mary in Az
Love the blouse!
I’m so behind in visiting but soon I’ll be back fresh when all this listing, selling and moving is behind us. Blessings!
A lovely blouse, Laura, and beautiful fabrics. It looks lovely on you.
Amalia
xo
Laura, I love your blog! Not only do you have precise technical sewing skills, but your designer’s eye for combining fabrics, trim and details makes your creations distinctive and lovely. I am trying to learn how to sew. Thank you for the inspiration.
Love the details! Looks great and I bet you’ll get lots of use out of it. You’re very talented!
Love the wind blown look, it suits you Laura and the top is gorgeous. Love the attention to detail and the little extras you added to make it look so unique.