I love a challenge and to create a completely different garment from the one you started with takes imagination and courage. Once you made the cut, you are in to it whether you like it or not.
My most recent garment upcycle is a blouse from a dress. My neighbour had recently retired from the British Army and asked if I could use two long formal army dresses as they were now redundant and due to go to the recycling centre. I immediate said yes please. They are good quality satin backed navy crepe that drapes lovely. There was plenty of fabric in the skirt to make a blouse so I set about unpicking the bodice from the skirt and detaching the lining. Laying out the three large separate skirt pieces I juggled the blouse pattern pieces to fit. I used the Misses Vintage Blouses Simplicity Sewing Pattern 8736.
The crepe is a medium weight and I decided the sleeves would be best in a lighter contrasting fabric. I chose a Swiss clip jacquard navy chiffon from Minerva.com. Chiffon is tricky to sew as it slips and slides around beneath your sewing machine foot. A firm grip and a slow machine speed is required to keep control. It also frays dreadfully so I used a french seam to contain the frayed edges.
As the crepe is satin backed it seemed ideal to use the wrong side of the fabric to bring contrast. I used the satin side for the cuffs and to cover the buttons.
I am very pleased with the result. When we are released in to the world again, I will be wearing this with skinny jeans, tall brown boots and my hand made navy poncho.
Terri
Jay Dog Designs 