Cotton summer blouse

Ahh summer time, for us (in Kentucky) it feels as though it's winding down. Today has been cooler, sunny and even quieter outdoors. The cicada aren't humming as loudly anymore, the tree frogs at night are not as often heard.

So onto the project at hand ~ my finished summer blouse! This was much fun to make, I learned a new seam as well. But first, a few photos and I will then share the pattern and how it went.

I probably mentioned before, but here again - Simplicity pattern #1693 : short sleeves, tank top, 3/4 sleeve blouse tops. 

Please note, the bell-like sleeves. These I had originally not intended to add the elastic to (at the hem). But when I tried it on I noticed, the sleeves were very wide! I didn't like that look so I added some elastic and just made sure they were not tight. It worked out well considering I used cotton fabric for this top - which you can see, wrinkles like nobodies business. But it's meant to be worn and it will be, very much so. It's a comfortable fit for me (I picked the size 12) and have a button closure to the back.

You can not see it but this has a middle back seam. The top openings at the neck (as seen above) and has a simple button closure. Be sure to learn what size pattern is best for you - too small, you won't be able to move your arms - too large, it will be far too lose on your body. I learned the French seam for this top: it leaves no raw seams on fabric inside. The pattern came with easy instructions on how to do this seam. I'd suggest practicing on some scrap fabric before applying this to your sewing project. 

As summer turns to autumn I am already itching to sew another top! This time it's one of my Lisette pattern I purchased on sale earlier this year. It is a 3/4 sleeve top and I was delighted to find some fabric with hints of yellow in it (my new favorite color!). it is this pattern here, the Continental blouse top. I hope everyone is enjoying the end of summer and gearing up for some cooler temperatures! 

Upcoming storewide SALE

Ever look at your crafty items and think "Wow, my collection is... unorganized"? Well I have and I want to make some much needed changes by the years end. I love what I do, I love to sew, I love to hear back from customers about one of my goods they purchased. But I really should focus more on picking just a few types of things to consistantly sell.
And deciding what to make isn't the only change - shop name. Yep, I feel it's time to pick a new Etsy shop name.

So to get ready for a revamped shop for 2012 I'm starting a sale on Sept. 12th! Yep, storewide and it will get bigger as the year counts down. I will start with a few select goods and eventually markdown my entire stock. I do love to sew but will focus on a few plushies I love in various colors and sizes. I also have a fantastic new book with birdie plushies, I could really have fun with them (and make them seasonal).
And to revisit something I'd been experimenting with...

You just know I couldn't stop and put it aside! I had to make my own style of bralette & tap pants. This is one set I have made and am very pleased with how it looks. And now that I figured out how to do this, I'd like to make some sets for my Etsy shop in 2012. I use upcycled materials such as long slips or long camisoles. I transform them from something bland to something romantic, flirty and wearable on a daily basis. Why was I so bent on learning to make these? Because I think women today often don't feel attractive or apprechiate the curves they have. I hate to see how much ladies spend on top name brand intimates {and I have been one of them!} that aren't even made in the USA. So I'd like to think the reason those brands are so pricey is because you are paying for the name. It wasn't likely made with care, in a warm inviting place, where a seamstress pondered how it should hug a womens shape just so. I want to get back to basics and make things people will truly use and enjoy.