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| I think it's pretty spiffy! |
As you may have noticed, I added a bit of overstitching to edges of the cotton. I had to make a decision between hiding the stitching (which didn't work well with small polka dots) or emphasizing it. I chose the latter and was so happy with the result, I added some more. It also helps to keep some of my seams in place; a double win!
Even though this pattern was relatively simple, I still learned a lot. Firstly, do not use a really hot iron on chiffon. Or at least the chiffon I used (from JoAnn Fabrics). It will melt and melted clothing is not cute! In my defense, I had the iron set on high for the cotton part of the blouse and didn't even think about what havoc it would wreck on the chiffon part. Fortunately, the little hole it created isn't noticeable (other than to me). Unfortunately, it is in such a spot that I determined it really isn't worth the effort to completely replace that section.
I also learned, simultaneously in fact, that chiffon is not the easiest material to work with. It looks lovely, but the fraying (even with zig-zagging and pinking the edges) was quite a challenge. As was cutting out. And sewing together. It was all challenging for me! I do not think I'll be using chiffon again for anything that is supposed to be tailored or semi-tailored (like a collar) until I've gotten better acquainted with the material, But I'll still use it for draping and gathering.
If I were to make this blouse again, I might use an organza or something else with a bit more body for the collar. I would also line it, as I mentioned here in my beginning post. My fabric is slightly see-through and the added security would be nice.
Well, until next time.
-The Gretchen
