McCall 5661 Silk Blouse is done!

I'm done...after weeeeks of working on this blouse.  It was very simple to put together, but I had absolutely no time with the other crafts I've been making, a visit from my mom, and the impending big move down to Southern California. 

I really worked hard on this blouse and tried a couple new-to-me techniques.  See here and here for previous posts.  I attempted a so-so narrow hem, used french seams on the side seams, used a Hong Kong finish to encase the raw edges of the facings (new!), made covered buttons (new, and so much fun!), and used the one-thread dart technique (new!).  I am proud of the blouse, but not sure how much use I will get out of it.  My wardrobe is pretty casual, but I want to start dressing more sophisticated. I know my shoes don't go, but I love them.  They were the first heels I grabbed running out the door to take pictures. I didn't want the Boyfriend to wait too long.  The shoes are from a tiny antique store in town nearby that had tons of shoes all in my size! I think I got them for about $7.

The silk really gave me a lot of trouble. It was very shifty, and any time I sewed a curve, I could feel it stretch out...even as I stay-stitched.  Thank God for the print or you would see all the little puckers.  I never did use tissue paper as I stitched, but I should have.  Not terribly happy with the bust darts, but I will live.

Check out those sloping shoulders and my invisible covered buttons!

Here is the PR review:

Pattern Description: 

Fitted tops have front and back darts and back button closure; top B has self-faced sleeve; top C has gathered sleeve with sleeve band; top D has front pleats; top E has front pleats and gathered bubble sleeve; belt is included.
I made view A. I think the blouse would have been better as view D.

Pattern Sizing:

BB(8-10-12-14), F5(16-18-20-22-24) I used a size 10.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Very easy. 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I like the pattern alot. I should have used view D with this fabric. I love the back button closure. 

Fabric Used:

A silk of some sort. I think silk Habotai maybe. It was very light, drapey, and shifted like Hell!

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

I had the pattern fitted to me in Pattern Fitting class. I made a straight 10, made 1/2" sloping shoulder adjustments, and had to add shoulder darts to accommodate for my prominent shoulder blades. At least that is what I am telling myself (I do NOT have the beginning's of a rounded back!) 

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

I would definitely sew this again. Probably in View D. I would also maybe carve out a bit of the armhole for more of a tank look. 


Conclusion: 

Love the pattern, great for beginners!