Learn to Sew a Gathered Blouse

Let’s sew up Aims! In this sewalong, you’ll see each step from the instructions in action and get some extra tips to help you sew. Tip: keep the instructions nearby while you watch!

This pattern is rated intermediate, but adventurous beginners are welcome! We assume that you’re not an absolute beginner and you have some experience cutting out fabric, finishing seams, and using your machine and tools. If you need extra help along the way, click the “Links” tab below the video player or hop onto the Community to post a question.

You’re going to learn how to sew:

• a band collar


• button placket


• and gather lots of fabric

You’re NOT going to learn how to:

• Cut out and mark your fabric


• Use basic sewing tools and supplies

If you need additional help with the skills required for this class, click the “Links” tab below the video player for a helpful list of tutorials.

General Info:

• All seam allowances are 5/8” for wovens unless otherwise stated.


• Stitch settings can vary from machine to machine, so we recommend testing on scraps. Use a notebook to capture what stitch length and width work best with your chosen fabric.
  


• We show finishing seams with a serger because it’s the quickest method while filming. If you don’t have a serger, a zigzag stitch works just as well!

Fabric and Fit

Fabrics to shop:
Lightweight or medium-weight woven fabrics such as cotton lawn, cotton gauze, voile, chambray, swiss dot, rayon challis, linen, rayon crepe, and silk.

Fabrics to avoid:
Avoid heavyweight fabrics as they will be challenging to gather and may feel overwhelming to wear. Instead of denim, for example, use chambray.

Fit:
This blouse has plenty of ease, so pay attention to the finished garment measurements to determine how much ease you’d like. The blouse is intended to be tucked in, so pay attention to the length of the garment if you prefer to wear your blouse untucked.