Sunday, July 3, 2011

Patternmaking - Copying a favorite blouse - the result

Looking in the dictionary, there are a few definitions listed under the word "clone", such as to make an identical copy, or something designed to simulate the exactly the operation of another, typically more expensive item.   I like that second definition, particularly as applied to clothing.  After all, a lot of my sewing is inspired by things I have seen in stores or magazines and would never be able to bring myself to purchase.  (such as a $ 2000 coat or an Armani tuxedo style suit).   So the part about simulating the operation of another item,  that sounds about right.  Typically a more expensive item, definitely, as refers to my own wardrobe.


Gingham shirt front fullThe result at right of my first go in a long time at cloning a blouse  Here is that post : 
making  a pattern from the existing blouse.  


As they say on the radio, this was a test, I repeat, only a test.   I skipped adding the cuffs for the test version.


The real blouse will be made from Liberty cotton purchased in the shop in London.  












I was set to cut it out from a scrap of bedsheets, but then thought - with just a bit of care I can sew the whole thing. I was planning to go through all the steps, collar, placket etc. so better to use some real fabric.  I had this turquoise gingham so that became a summer shirt.


Blouse front original This is the original blouse which I copied.




Here is a look at the collar.  A while ago I did a post about collars and collar stands, and a really great method I saw on a PBS tv show with Louise Cutting (who often writes in Threads magazine)  If you are interested here is the link  Cotton blouse with variations.
Gingham shirt close front

I am really happy with the way this turned out, and am crossing my fingers that I get the same result when I cut into that expensive Liberty fabric.  Here is a peek at it.  The purple at the bottom is for a bias trim along the hemline.

Blouse fabric choice

If you are interesting in cloning a garment that you have, I do recommend the book I mentioned in my last post:  Patternmaking for a Perfect Fit by Steffani Lincecum.  very helpful.

Here is today's Sunnygal Garden photo, this Hydrangea is right by my front door, and is really not my favorite, I like the mophead type better.  As it happens this one is huge - almost crowding out the other shrubs in that area.  Good thing it puts out a lot of blooms or I might have to take defensive action.  No mercy here for plants that are not performers!

and to those celebrating Independence Day, July 4 - have a great one! 
Beth
Hydrangea blue white june11

7 comments:

  1. It looks to me like you've nailed it. The blue turquoise gingham is a great summer shirt too. The new blouse in the Liberty print with the purple bias hem is going to be gorgeous. By the way, the Hydrangea is beautiful. One of my favorites!

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  2. That original blouse is *very* cute and the copy looks perfect. That Liberty is an interesting fabric and a new-to-me Liberty print.

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  3. ohmegosh that Liberty fabric is gorgeous!!! And I agree - it sure looks like you've nailed your clone - impressive!

    FWIW, I love the lacecap hydrangeas, but I have one that I have to get brutal with every year - the only reason it hasn't totally taken over its bed is because it's battling with another shrub (a privet of some sort) Love your garden pics :)

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  4. Terrific job. It's not easy copying. I've been trying to copy a jacket. Got the body quite well but having trouble with the sleeves.

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  5. Although it's a task, copying clothes is so much fun and your version turned out great! Can't wait to see the finished top:)

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  6. Looks like the clone turned out well! I love the Liberty print -- it's going to be a beautiful shirt. Love the hydrangeas as well!

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