Free Pattern – Em Sew Happy Blog

Ash Pintuck Camisole

Excited to start the new year with another fantastic free make from the Fabric Store catalogue. This camisole is so comfortable to wear in summer and I love the special features of the pintucks and the half button placket. I’m especially proud of mastering the placket. I started this make in December and then lost my sewjo when I came across the button placket. It felt too complicated to tackle in a fully packed month of visitors and celebrations, so I packed it away and came back to it. Happily, I’ve learnt how to install the placket thanks to the fantastic tutorials that accompany these patterns. I also watched a few YouTube videos.

The sizing is straightforward with my measurements of 38-inch bust, 33-inch waist and 40-inch hips fall in the size 8/10 and 12/14 range so I made a simple grade between the two sizes. The pattern is a great remnant buster because it only requires just under 1 meter. I had just enough of this beautiful cotton Indian Batik and that included making my own bias binding for the straps.

This is one of the best camisoles I’ve ever made. The straps stay put when you’re wearing it. I think it does this because the straps are thin, and they are fixed a bit closer to the midline in the front. I didn’t end up attaching the belt because I know that I would prefer to wear it loose. Although, it is a cute feature if you wanted a more fitted look.

Looking to the new year and sewing plans, I’m not sure if the “Make Nine” has been working out that well. The reason why I started sewing, was because I enjoyed learning a new skill and I wanted to see if I could build a fully handmade wardrobe. I used to be an avid shopper but now rarely buy ready to wear unless it’s work related. I enjoy the sense of peace and mindfulness that accompanies this hobby. I love discovering new patterns, but I think this year, I will aim to repeat sew to help reinforce a skill set. This means that I will be looking for patterns that have features that will help me further my sewing skills. I’m also hoping to take part in a few pattern tests because I enjoy the interaction with other makers. It’s also a great motivator and I love looking at the behind-the -scenes in the designer world.

Thanks for reading and happy sewing!

X Em

Albion Blouse

The Albion Blouse is a collaboration between Vanessa Hansen Studios and Peppermint Magazine. Peppermint Magazine is not only great for their articles but also for their free sewing patterns. I was thrilled to be part of the tester team and so happy to be able to share it. When I started applying to be a tester for patterns, I didn’t realise there could be a gap between sewing and posting. Sometimes there’s no indication of when a pattern will be released which makes it so exciting when you can finally share! I was born in the Chinese year of the dragon and dragons are usually terrible at keeping secrets so I’m patting myself on the back for not letting anything out of the bag so far.

The Albion Blouse is a wrap top which is fastened by buttons and loops. It is quite fitted in the bodice and stops just below the natural waistline. There were a lot of firsts for me in this pattern. I’ve never had to make loops for fastening and it was also my first time making my own buttons. I consider my skill level sitting more towards the advanced beginner so I was happy to be able to complete this pattern which is made for intermediate sewers.

The size for the Albion Blouse runs between A to P and has cup sizes. I graded between size F and G as my full bust sat in the F range and my waist was in the G. I love the system on sizing and how Vanessa includes detailed fitting notes in her patterns. The wrap top allows for some flexibility too which helped me as I’m still learning in this area.

There are two versions to make in this pattern and my first make was a wearable toile of the short sleeve blouse. My final version was of the long sleeves with cuff which also fastens with buttons and loops.

This blouse has such classic vintage features, so I chose a beautiful lightweight linen with a modern print to juxtapose this. I always reach for a linen if I can because it’s a natural fibre and great in hot weather and cooler weather too.

The Albion Blouse is such a generous offering from Vanessa Hansen Studios. Thank you to both Peppermint Magazine and Vanessa for making this pattern free for all of us.

Thanks for reading and happy sewing!

X Em