So you’re ready to sew Lotus Blossom blouse – but how can you best match up that fabric and lace with the pattern? Let’s discuss.
For me, sewing is a creative and rewarding hobby that allows me to express my personal style and create unique garments. One crucial aspect of sewing is selecting the right fabric to complement your chosen sewing pattern. Pairing patterns with appropriate fabrics is an art that can elevate your sewing projects from ordinary to extraordinary. Today, I want to share some essential tips and considerations to help you achieve the perfect fabric match for the newly updated and released Lotus Blouse.
Tip 1: Understand the Pattern
I suggest you always start by carefully reading the pattern instructions. Consider the recommended fabric types and weights mentioned in the pattern instructions. Take note of the garment’s intended drape, structure, and design details. Understanding the pattern’s requirements will guide you in selecting suitable fabrics, especially if you want to use a print for the Lotus instead of a solid. Upon reading the pattern instructions, you will find clear directions on how to complete this successfully.
Tip #2: Consider Fabric Properties
Consider how the fabric’s properties will enhance or detract from the garment’s design. Recommended fabrics for the Lotus Blouse are fabrics that are lightweight and flowy but also the same on both sides. I chose a floral Double Brushed Poly and a solid Aqua Bamboo Spandex as they both met these requirements. Since the main design of the blouse is the twist, choosing a solid fabric will certainly simplify the construction process and is recommended for a first attempt. Using a solid color may also showcase the twist design of the blouse and allow that to be the attention grabber of the garment!
Tip #3: Using Color and Print for the main fabric and lace inset
My vision for both of my Lotus Blouses included a floral version with a solid lace inset and and a solid version with floral lace inset. I chose lighter colors as I really felt that the unique design of the front would be better visible as opposed to darker fabrics. My only dilemma was making sure I could match the lace to the fabric from a computer screen. The awesome customer service of Surge Fabric Shop to the rescue! I gave Kayla, the owner, my ideas and she sent me some photos of combinations from which to choose. I really can’t decide which version I love more! Surge has a fantastic selection of stretch lace in wide widths that work perfectly for the Lotus inset. I chose to use lace, but any accent fabric or favorite remnant can bring a pop of color to the back yoke of the blouse!
Tip #4: Construction Advice
If choosing to use a fabric with a distinct right and wrong side, just know that you will have a seam at the front hem of the blouse. If the seam is too noticeable for your liking, try tucking the seam under by the seam allowance and slip stitching in place. I used this technique on my floral Lotus and I was really pleased with the result! Another helpful hint is to use the ever popular double sided tape to hold your neckline seam of the lace yoke down as you hem. I chose to sew this with a straight stitch instead of my coverstitch due to the delicate nature of the lace. A narrow zig zag stitch could also be used as well.
Pairing sewing patterns with fabrics is a thoughtful and exciting process that can elevate your sewing projects to new heights. By understanding the pattern requirements, considering fabric properties, and some thoughtful inset construction, you can achieve a harmonious and visually stunning combination. I feel I have accomplished just that with my fabric and lace choices! Happy Sewing!
(Pattern Aff link)
(#aff links to fabrics)
Aqueduct Bamboo Spandex
Linnea on Mint Double Brushed Poly
Watercolor Stretch Lace
Coral Peach Stretch Lace
Save this article to your pinterest board
