Blouses Finished

I recently finished some blouses for myself. I use a basic pattern, but normally, I add pleats.

Here is a basic blouse I made, stretching it out of scraps, which is why I didn't add pleats...there wasn't enough fabric! 

The next blouse is an example of what I do if I haven't enough material to put in the 1/2" pleats I normally make: just make 1/4" pleats! (I have three on each side of the placket here.)

And, finally, here is a "normal" blouse, featuring three 1/2" pleats on either side of the placket. 

I also had to add a seam in the center back of the blouse, which is normally cut on the fold. Adding the seam in the back enabled me to squeeze the blouse out of the scraps, and it is not noticeable in either blouse.

Modest, Feminine Blouses Available to Order

After many years of searching and trying different patterns, I finally found a blouse pattern just as I wanted it to be...In our pattern box, where it's been for years. And everyone that sees them loves them, including my dad and brothers...they actually comment on how they like these. So I'm making them available to you to order "special", meaning that I will use the materials you send me, and do the sewing for you, rather than "stocking" them.

These blouses fit beautifully, have feminine gathered sleeves, three pleats on either side of the buttons down the center, and a rounded collar. There is a lovely long-sleeve option, as well as the short sleeve option shown.

Materials needed: 2 1/4 to 3 yards fabric (depending on size), 6 t0 8 buttons (depending on size), 1 spool (at least 200 yards of Gutterman or Coats and Clark brand) thread to match fabric, 1 package 1/4" elastic.

Pricing:

Sizes 8, 10, 12, 14 or 16 are $20.00 for the labor.

Sizes 18 are $25.00 for the labor.

Contact me about sizing details to learn your size.