Opportunities to Learn Come Thick and Fast
Sewing / Posted on May 23rd, 2011
If there’s one thing I should have learned from the artwork of Georgia O’keefe is that large-scale florals look like lady bits.
I’m not sure that any amount of fiddling around with pattern placement on this blouse would have helped, because moving one big flower away from the bustline left another in its wake. What makes it worse is the fact that the big pink flowers are slightly askew, making the pointer sisters look cock-eyed.
All joking aside, I still like the top and will probably wear it, even if I end up a laughing stock. I’m pleased that I finally managed to sew this blouse (BurdaStyle 03-2009-106). This is the third time I’ve attempted it. The first time, I didn’t understand the directions and couldn’t figure out how to attach the yoke/collar pieces. I ended up poking a hole through the fabric when unpicking a seam. The second time around, I assembled all the pieces with little trouble, but discovered it was far too narrow over the hips. The third time is–well, not “the charm,” because there are still problems–but at least the third time provides evidence that I do learn from my experiences.
If I were to make this again, I’d take in about 1/2″ over the shoulders and maybe 1/4″ over the hips (I over-corrected a bit). I’d either use a plain fabric or a small scale print.
P.S. I’m training my son to take my wardrobe pictures, so Me-Made-June is easier. Didn’t he do a good job today?
Posted by 
May 23rd, 2011 at 10:34 am
You know, I wonder if anyone other than a seamstress would notice the flower placement. Now that you point out the lopsidedness, I can’t look at anything else, though.
Your son did a great job. I have my 4-year-old take mine when I don’t want to haul out the tripod. I think they like to be an important part of the process. 
Amy Reply:
May 25th, 2011 at 9:15 am
It was my husband who first noticed, so I don’t know if I’ll be able to get away with it. You’re right–it’s good to include the kids in on the process!
May 23rd, 2011 at 10:45 am
I totally didn’t notice the bullseyes (and I usually do!) until you pointed it out. That print is busy enough that individual elements aren’t obvious. I really like it! And your son did a great job taking the pictures! Every time I see this blouse, I want to sew it. My mom has this issue, but in German and it sounds like I’d need them in English. If you had trouble with them, I haven’t a prayer!
Amy Reply:
May 25th, 2011 at 9:16 am
Katie, I was *really* new to sewing when I first tried this blouse. I’m sure you won’t have much trouble. If you decide to sew it, I can help you decode the instructions.
May 23rd, 2011 at 12:03 pm
I see no high beams. Well, I didn’t until you mentioned it. I had to look carefully though, to see the problem. I am sure that no one else but a serious seamstress would notice. It’s really cute!
May 23rd, 2011 at 2:16 pm
I like this – imho the print placement is not bad at all. I really like the interesting details on this blouse and plan to make it up …eventually!
May 24th, 2011 at 10:58 am
Haha, I don’t think I would have noticed if you hadn’t pointed it out. I was worried about a similar bullseye effect on a top I made last year, but managed to avoid it. It took some verrrrry careful pattern piece placement, though.
May 25th, 2011 at 2:14 pm
Very pretty! I don’t think the flower placement is as bad as all that and the neckline is really cute!
Also, welcome to the Summer Essentials Sew-along 2011! I’m looking forward to seeing what garments you come up with!
June 17th, 2011 at 4:59 am
“the pointer sisters”?! Love it!
And the blouse too, obviously!