My first sewing project of 2019 was a fairly quick one. A while ago, JoAnn had a big sale on their cotton flannel prints. While it says right on the selvedge that it's meant for children's sleepwear, I saw no reason why I couldn't use it for something else. And this bold floral print was just too pretty to pass up!
I got a blouse length (2 yards) of it, confident that even with the one way design I would be able to fit a blouse out of it.
I used a pattern I used last year for my pink polka dot dress makeover. I had really liked the construction of it and the way it fit. This time was even easier since I'd made it before.
I did swap out the sleeves for 3/4 sleeves from a different pattern - AND I managed to get them set in smoothly, so that's a big win!
I also chose the tie neck option. That was the most challenging part of construction since it was quite confusing to figure out which way to cut the ties so that the flowers wouldn't end up upside down.
I ended up cutting 3 ties and being able to use two of them. There wasn't much fabric left, so thankfully I didn't need to cut more!
Though I was initially worried that the flannel would make the ties too bulky, but they tie and lay beautifully. I think they show up better in real life than in these pictures where the tie blends in to the background fabric. I really like bows at the neckline like this! I should make another version in plain white to wear under suit jackets.
The vintage glass buttons matched perfectly - I've had them in my stash for ages, and the blue/white combo was exactly the right color to go with the print.
It's such a cozy, soft blouse. Comfortable and much warmer for cold winter days than a regular cotton fabric. I'm worried that it won't end up lasting with a lot of wear and washing, but since it's just a cold weather blouse, hopefully I can make it last through a few winters.
It was a fun, quick project to start out the year with!
I live in homemade flannel dresses and skirts in the winter. Your blouse turned out beautifully! And those buttons are a great detail.
Posted by: Mrs Rat | 01/31/2019 at 05:16 PM
Your blouse looks great - and you definitely need warm and cosy clothes at the moment!
Posted by: Rebecca Young | 02/02/2019 at 03:48 AM
The blouse is beautiful! I will have to look for that pattern, as I think it would fit me well too. :)
PS. The flannel from JoAnn is specifically NOT for children's sleepwear. You may want to edit that part of your story just for safety and clarification.
Posted by: Sarah | 02/03/2019 at 09:05 AM