Old Mexico Blouse by Folkwear

by Cameron

I was so excited to see a new shipment of Folkwear patterns arrive at the shop the other week. For uncommon silhouettes and details, Folkwear can’t be beat. Many of our customers that come in for Folkwear patterns are interested in historical sewing, but plenty of their patterns are great for everyday wear, too. That’s what I had in mind when I made up the Old Mexico Blouse. I think it’s going to get a lot of wear this summer.

This is such a simple project! There are only four pattern pieces, so tracing and cutting are a breeze. I’m not a speedy sewer, and I was able to finish it up in two or three hours, tops. The instructions are clear and easy to follow. The only step that I had trouble with was attaching the sleeves. Instead of attaching the sleeve at the armhole, it’s more like you’re inserting the sleeve into the side seam. Adrianna clued me in to an easier way to tackle this bit of construction - sew the sleeve to the shirt and then sew the sleeve and side seam together in one go.

I made the small, a size smaller than my bust measurement, because it’s such a roomy shirt. I’m glad I sized down. The pattern includes both a top and full dress option.

Let’s talk fabric: For the yoke I used Andover’s chambray in marigold. We have just one or two bolts of this chambray left, but I think the shot cottons would also work really well in this pattern. The rest of the shirt is made of a splashy aqua fabric from Alison Glass’ Handcrafted collection - her modern take on batik. It’s well suited to both quilting and garments.

Come on in to check out all the new Folkwear patterns we have in stock!