Puzzling Print




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Pattern Description
Semi-fitted blouse with ruching at the front's princess seams and sleeve variations. Has interfaced collar, front facing and center back seam. I sewed View A, the long sleeved blouse.

Size
European sizing 36-38-40-42-44. I sewed a "40" corresponding to a "14".

Fabric Used
Cotton with pastel camo print. I enjoy sewing with wild fabric prints and creating something that drifts away from my usual wardrobe!

Likes
* Blouse was easy to put together.
* Seam allowances are included in pattern pieces.
* Seam numbers were included.
* Gathering/ruching in the front (gathering was done between two marked stars on the front pieces). The edge of a front gathered piece should match up with the edge of its corresponding side front before stitching them together.
* The directions flowed well and included helpful illustrations. Steps such as side seams and sleeve seams were not numbered and did not include illustrations.
* Surprisingly, instructions for assembling and attaching neck collar and sleeve cuffs were sufficiently clear and easy to follow.
* Included reminders/tips for setting in sleeves.

Dislikes
* Nothing to dislike. The only thing that I somewhat bothered me was taking a little more time in easing the collar onto the neckline. I ended up snipping quite a bit of the top edge of the collar after attaching the front facing.

Modifications
I used 4 large buttons instead of 7 small buttons as shown in the technical drawing. My top is not as low cut as pictured on the pretty model.

Conclusion
The blouse ended up looking more like a shirt/jacket. I rarely wear button down shirts because I would rather wear a camisole or a sleeveless top underneath and not having to button the front.

I'll sew a poly blend version and also the short sleeves with the tie casingsm which seems very "in" right now. I recommend this top because it is very easy to make and very versatile (any season of the year, dressy or casual occasions).