Transform a Tablecloth into a Stylish Blouse!

Transform a Tablecloth into a Stylish Blouse!

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Choosing the Fabric
3. Pattern Hacking the Rosa Sewing Pattern
4. Cutting the Pieces
5. Making the Collar
6. Sewing the Facing
7. Sewing the Bodice
8. Adding the Collar and Facing
9. Hemming the Center Front Edges
10. Sewing the Side Seams
11. Making and Attaching the Sleeves
12. Adding Buttons and Buttonholes
13. Finishing Touches
14. Conclusion

Transforming a Tablecloth into a Stylish Blouse

Have you ever come across a unique and beautiful tablecloth while thrifting and wondered if it could be transformed into a stunning garment? In this article, we will guide you through the process of turning a tablecloth into a fashionable button-up blouse. From choosing the fabric to adding buttons and buttonholes, we will cover every step of the DIY project. So, grab your sewing tools and let's get started!

Introduction

Hello, fellow DIY enthusiasts! It's Janelle here, and I am thrilled to show you how to transform a tablecloth into a fashionable blouse. We all love finding unique pieces while thrifting, and this tablecloth caught my eye immediately. I knew it had the potential to become something truly special in my wardrobe. Join me as I share the step-by-step process of creating a button-up blouse using the tablecloth as the fabric.

Choosing the Fabric

Before we dive into the sewing process, let's talk about choosing the right fabric. While you can use any type of fabric for this DIY project, my personal preference is a beautiful tablecloth. Thrift stores often have a wide selection of unique and affordable tablecloths that can be repurposed into stunning garments. Keep an eye out for interesting patterns and designs that would make a statement in a blouse.

Pattern Hacking the Rosa Sewing Pattern

To create the blouse, we will be pattern hacking the Rosa sewing pattern. If you're not familiar with the Rosa pattern, don't worry – I'll provide links in the description where you can find it. Additionally, I've created free templates that perfectly complement the Rosa pattern or can be used with the Willow pattern 2. For this project, we will be using the Sleeve 1 template.

To begin the pattern hacking process, we will make some adjustments to the template pieces. Lengthen the bodice front and back by approximately 10 centimeters or 4 inches. Extend the center front by about 2.5 centimeters or an inch, and bring in the center back by one centimeter or half an inch. Don't forget to modify the front and back facing pieces to match these changes.

Cutting the Pieces

Now that we have made the necessary adjustments to the template pieces, it's time to cut them out from our chosen fabric or tablecloth. Fold the fabric in half and place the template pieces accordingly. For the blouse, the bodice back should be placed on the fold of the fabric instead of the bodice front. If you want to include the decorative edge of the tablecloth as a feature, position the pieces the correct distance away from this edge.

Before cutting the pieces, use a water erasable pen or tailor's chalk to mark a straight line from the underarm point of both the bodice front and back. This stitching line will make the blouse slightly less fitted. However, if you prefer a more fitted blouse, you can skip this step and keep the pattern pieces as they are.

Making the Collar

One of the essential elements of a button-up blouse is the collar. Let's start by making the collar. Take the two collar pieces and stitch them together along the outside edge, with right sides facing. Trim away the corners and clip the curves, being careful not to snip the stitching. Then, turn the collar right side out and use a knitting needle or a similar tool to poke out the corners and smooth the seam. Give the collar a press with an iron to ensure it lays flat and looks neat.

Sewing the Facing

Next, it's time to sew the facing. With right sides together, place the facing fronts onto the facing back and stitch them together along the shoulder seams. After sewing each seam, consider using an overlocker or a zigzag stitch on your sewing machine to prevent the raw edges from fraying. Overlock the outside edge of the sewn together facings and press this curved edge in by about one centimeter or half an inch. Stitch it in place to secure the facing.

Sewing the Bodice

Now, let's focus on sewing the bodice together. Take the bodice front templates and mark out the bust darts on the wrong side of the bodice fronts using a water erasable pen or tailor's chalk. Fold the darts and stitch them in place. Press the darts towards the bottom of the blouse to achieve a neat finish. With right sides together, place the bodice fronts onto the bodice back and stitch them together along the shoulder seams.

Adding the Collar and Facing

To give the blouse its classic button-up look, we will now attach the collar and facing. Place the collar onto the blouse, matching the curved neck edge. Then, place the facing on top of the collar, also aligning the curved neck edge. Stitch these layers together, securing them in position as you sew. After stitching, clip the curved edge again, ensuring not to accidentally snip the stitching. Finally, fold and press the facing onto the inside of the blouse to conceal the collar's seam.

Hemming the Center Front Edges

If you are using ordinary fabric, it's time to hem the center front edges. Fold in approximately one centimeter or half an inch twice and sew the hem in place. However, if you are using a tablecloth, you can leave the center front edge as it is to showcase the decorative edge of the fabric.

Sewing the Side Seams

With right sides together, place the blouse fronts onto the back and stitch them together along the side seams. This step will bring the blouse together and give it its tailored shape. Take your time to ensure the seams are sewn accurately, resulting in a flawless fit.

Making and Attaching the Sleeves

Now, let's make the sleeves for our blouse. If you need detailed instructions on how to create these adorable shared puff sleeves, I highly recommend watching a separate video dedicated to that topic. Once the sleeves are ready, use the seam of your iron to shrink the shirring elastic slightly and press the shirring for a more defined look. Gently pull on the gathering stitches and pin the sleeves to the armholes of the blouse. Stitch them in place to attach the sleeves securely.

Adding Buttons and Buttonholes

To complete the button-up blouse, we need to add buttons and buttonholes. You can use the buttonhole foot of your sewing machine to make the buttonholes. Alternatively, place a button on the buttonhole edge of the blouse and mark approximately two millimeters or one-eighth of an inch on either side of the button. Connect these markings to create the buttonhole shape. Repeat this step, leaving approximately a ten centimeter or four-inch space between each buttonhole.

Set your sewing machine to a zigzag stitch and adjust the stitch length to 0.4 and the stitch width to 2.5. Stitch along the two lengths of your buttonhole marking. Then, change the stitch length to 0.2 and the stitch width to 5.5. Sew a few stitches along the top and bottom of your buttonhole to secure it. Tie the back threads together into a double knot and snip away any loose threads. Finally, use a seam ripper to open the buttonhole by cutting the fabric inside, taking care not to damage the stitching.

Overlap the center front edges with the buttonhole edge on top and mark where the buttons should be placed using a marker. Stitch the buttons onto your blouse, ensuring they are secure and aligned with the buttonholes.

Finishing Touches

To complete the blouse, hand stitch the facing onto the inside of the blouse at the shoulder seams. This step will ensure a clean and professional finish. Take your time and sew the facing with precision, paying attention to every detail.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully transformed a tablecloth into a stylish button-up blouse. By following the step-by-step instructions and using your sewing skills, you have created a unique and personalized garment for your wardrobe. Don't forget to share your creations with us by tagging @rosaryapparel on Instagram. We hope you enjoyed this tutorial and are inspired to explore more DIY projects. Stay creative and continue to make beautiful garments that reflect your individual style. Happy sewing!

Highlights:

• Transforming a tablecloth into a fashionable blouse
• Pattern hacking the Rosa sewing pattern
• Choosing the right fabric for the DIY project
• Making the collar and sewing the facing
• Creating the bodice and adding the collar and facing
• Hemming the center front edges and sewing the side seams
• Making and attaching the sleeves
• Adding buttons and buttonholes
• Finishing touches and securing the facing
• Celebrating your unique and personalized blouse creation

FAQ:

Q: Can I use any type of fabric for this project? A: Yes, you can use any fabric that suits your preference and style. However, choosing a unique tablecloth can add a special touch to your blouse.

Q: Do I need to be an experienced sewer to complete this project? A: Some sewing experience is recommended, but with the provided instructions and templates, even beginners can successfully create this blouse.

Q: Can I modify the pattern to make the blouse more fitted? A: Yes, you can adjust the pattern to achieve a tighter fit by not making the suggested stitching line from the underarm point.

Q: How long does it take to complete this project? A: The time required depends on your sewing skills and experience. On average, it may take a few hours to complete the blouse.

Q: Can I add additional embellishments to the blouse? A: Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add your own personal touches, such as lace trims, embroidery, or decorative buttons.

Q: Can I machine wash the blouse once it's completed? A: It is recommended to follow the fabric's washing instructions to ensure the longevity of the blouse.

Q: Can I make this blouse in different sizes? A: Yes, the pattern can be adjusted to fit various sizes by using the appropriate measurements and modifying the template pieces accordingly.