Seven years between frills
It’s seven years since I first sewed Pattern E – Blouse with Frilled Sleeve from Happy Homemade Vol. 1 – Treasured Collection by Yoshiko Tsukiori.
It’s fair to say a lot has changed in seven years! When you look at this old blog post about that make (and I’m blushing as you do!) it will be very clear that Sharon was not taking my photos at that time and I clearly preferred scowling to smiling!
This is one of the few Japanese pattern books that has been translated into English. The written instructions are still very sparse, and as I’m a visual learner, I rely on the diagrams to gain the information I need about the order of construction and each step.
With regards to sizing and alternations, I sewed a size 10 (a size smaller than my bust measurement but equivalent to my hip measurement) and I performed my usual 3/8″ (1 cm) forward shoulder adjustment. My bust is generally a size bigger than my shoulders, so for styles that are loose around the bust, this is my default size choice.
One of the best things about sewing a pattern for a second time is that you get to make changes or tweaks to suit you.
This time I used a much more fluid fabric and I followed the instructions (rather than going rogue) for the sleeves which resulted in a cute cuff before the frill.
This top is definitely a keeper. I’m even considering sewing a silk version to start making a dint in my silk stash!
Like many others, I’m hoping to sew fabric from my stash this year. No hard and fast rules, as I know that strategy doesn’t work for me, but hopefully a greater awareness will assist me in checking the stash first.
I do a lot of repeat sewing of the same pattern. Do you?
Pattern: Pattern E – Blouse with Frilled Sleeve from Happy Homemade Vol. 1 – Treasured Collection (translated into English) by Yoshiko Tsukiori
Size: 10
Fabric: Viscose twill from Tessuti
Alterations: 3/8″ (1cm) forward shoulder adjustment
Outfit: Pants from COS, mustard wedges purchased from Siricco several years ago and my necklace was a gift from my dear friend Anne who lives in Germany
Photo Location: Eastern Suburbs, Melbourne
I love this top Anna. The fabric choice is gorgeous and I think it would work really well in silk!
Thanks Geraldine. I just might have a look in my silk stash this weekend.
Anna, your top is beautiful. I absolutely love the match of fabric with the pattern. Those tiny frills, gathers and bias edging are lovely details. As usual your sewing looks impeccable.
I have to confess that an edge-stitching foot is the key to perfect top-stitching and hemming.
Nice blouse. And what a beautifull fabric!
The fabric was definitely one I saw and just had a to have!
I just can’t believe how in sync I am with your Japanese makes, even though I am not slender and willowy like you!
I do believe that I could tweak these shapes to be a little more A line to flatter my much shorter and wider frame…..
The aesthetic is exquisite : breezy simplicity with a touch of feminine sweetness
Thank you Anna for your inspiration!
I so pleased that you are inspired by my makes.
This came out nice. I sewed this top a few years ago but I used a stiffer cotton and I didn’t care for the result. Good call with the fabric – and yes you need to cuff that sleeve or the frills stick out at a weird angle.
A stiffer fabric would totally change the outcome of this pattern. I wore this top this week. It was nice an cool on a hot day.
The blouse is so beautiful in the viscose twill. I think it would also be lovely in silk. I wish I was motivated to sew a pattern more than once, but for me it is on to the next new pattern that has caught my attention.
I totally get the appeal of a new pattern!
Love it! And how hilarious is your 2013 scowling! Xx
Very hilarious!