Final post, everyone! All that’s left at this point is the hem. Just like you did for the casings, you’re going to guide stitch around the hem using a 1/4″ seam allowance, stitching through just a single layer. Next, turn up the hem along the guide stitching so that the stitching is just turned to […]
Hi everyone! At this point in the sew along, we have inserted the elastic into the neckline and sleeve casings but have not sewn it permanently yet. It is safety pinned in place so that you can test and adjust the fit if needed. After that, we will stitch the elastic in place permanently. I […]
I’m so excited to be coming back to Australia! Here are details for my events and workshops. Social Events Brisbane October 19th, 6:00-8:00 pm. Meet & Greet at Spotlight Stores Indooroopilly. *Come dressed in your best Gertie-inspired outfit and the winner (chosen by yours truly) gets a $100 Spotlight voucher! Perth October 27th, 5:00-7:00 pm. Meet […]
Time to put in your sleeves and create those lovely elastic casings! First, sew the sleeves at the underarm seams, right sides together. Press the seam open. Now we’re going to sew the sleeves into the blouse. Keep in mind that on a sleeve pattern, a single notch always denotes the front of the sleeve, […]
It’s that time: zipper time! This is the part I’ve seen the most trepidation about in the sew-along group. It’s really not difficult, I promise! As mentioned in the supplies post, I do personally like to use an invisible zipper foot. However, many swear by using a regular zipper foot, and there are plenty […]
It’s finally time to really start sewing! We’re going to do steps 1-5, which will get us all the way to inserting the zipper. Seam Allowances First, please note that a 5/8″ seam allowance is included on all pattern pieces. The Princess Panels This blouse has midriff princess seams, meaning it’s broken up into six […]
It’s time to cut our fabric! I’m excited to be making my Rita from this tropical print rayon challis that is part of my new collection (coming out at Spotlight Stores next month!). Prepping to Cut First, a note on pre-washing: If you intend to wash your garment in the washing machine, it’s important to […]
Are you ready to get started on your Rita Blouse? One of the most important steps in making this blouse (or any pattern, for that matter) is analyzing your body measurements versus the Size Chart and the Finished Measurement Chart to make sure you choose a size you’ll be happy with. All the info you […]
No tools required! Create a vintage-style fabric covered button in no time at all. I love covered buttons for both function and decoration. (The one above is just a sleeve detail set over a flat bow. Cute!) First, use the pattern on the back of the covered button kit to cut out a circle of […]
Hey Detroit, I’m coming your way in just two weeks! Come see me speak at the American Sewing Guild Annual Meeting luncheon. With dazzling talks like “The Evolution of Gertie” and “Gertie’s Garment Extravaganza,” how could you refuse?! I will have a selection of Charm Patterns, Butterick Patterns, and my books available for signing or […]