Finished: BWOF 05-06-132B Blouse & BWOF 01-09-130 Pants

It seems like this outfit took forever to finish, but I know it was just the holiday preparations that postponed it's completion. I let three whole days pass before I sewed the last buttonhole and button on the pants!

Blouse: BWOF 05-06-132B

Pattern Description: Long Sleeved blouse with vertical darts on front and back.

Pattern Sizing: European plus sizes 44 - 52

Were the instructions easy to follow? I've made this blouse at least twice before so I really didn't need the instructions. The construction is very straightforward. I didn't like the instructions for the sleeve placket so I used the pattern and directions for Shirtmaking (Coffin, 1998)

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? This has become my TNT pattern for long-sleeved blouses. I particularly like the vertical darts in the body.

Fabric Used: Rayon from Vogue Fabrics by Mail.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I used the collar demonstrated by Louise Cutting in the Threads Insider Techniques DVD. I also applied this technique to the collar stand.


Pants: BWOF 01-09-130

Pattern Description: Typical fly front pants with hip yoke pockets. The waist band is extended.

Pattern Sizing: European plus size 44 - 52

Were the instructions easy to follow? I wish I had a nickel for every pair of "fly front pants with hip yoke pocket" I've made. I'd have enough money to buy very nice fabric to make another pair. Because of my familiarity with this type of pants, I didn't need the instructions. Again, the construction was straightforward.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: Every time I've made this style of pants, I'm disappointed when the pocket extension doesn't quite reach the center front. After 100's of these pants, I finally remembered to extend the extension to the center front. I added a buttonhole and button to the welt pocket on the back. And to think, I used to be afraid of welt pockets. I wish I'd lined these pants. I should begin to line all the fall and winter pants I sew.


Fabric Used: Italian wool

Conclusion: In the past, I rarely made patterns twice, but I've been doing it more lately. I've never had a BWOF pattern I would consider TNT, but these classically styled pieces have earned the coveted TNT status. I can definitely see the advantage of a TNT pattern.

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I'm not sure how much sewing and blogging I'll be able to do over the next two or three weeks. My daughter has invited a friend from Germany (who is spending a year in the US before going to college) to spend Christmas with us. As the responsible hostess, I'll have to come out of the sewing room occasionally. So, I'll take this opportunity to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year.