Hello, and curtsey to you all.
I’m a little on the excited side today. In fact, positively beside myself, to the left. I think the word I’m after is proud. After feeling as though I had peaked much to early this year (the first week of January to be exact) with this outfit, I’m pleased to say that I have achieved my most technical sewing feat to date. I am, I’m sure in Jane Austin’s mind, accomplished.
Grainville Shirt, Liberty
Some said it was brave, although personally I thought it a little reckless using Liberty for a new shirt pattern given it is the third shirt I’ve ever stitched together. But I’m remaining true to my promise to Bruce and the Fabric Gods: I shall not purchase any fabric unless absolutely necessary. Given this was the only piece of fabric that had the right yardage and wasn’t irreplaceable vintage, it seemed like the perfect choice. The stash does not lie.
Grainville Shirt, Liberty
I’ve previously made up the Meissa blouse from Paper Cut patterns but the shape just wasn’t me. (Note that I made this one up in Liberty as well, but have since pulled it apart to be repurposed for quilts and other projects). Then Tasia from Sewaholic published the Grainville shirt which is fitted to provide definition and designed for the pear shape. My stay on purchasing patterns was promptly set aside for a full 2.5 minutes to allow for a swift purchase from Sew Squirrel.
Grainville Shirt in Progress
I made my usual pattern adjustment of adding 2.5cm to the bodice length, and even though there were whispers that the sleeves were quite long, I added 2.5cm to the sleeve as well. I’m glad that I did. I’ve never had a shirt with sleeves so long in my life. They feel, what’s the word I’m looking for… Almost normal. Such a peculiar feeling. I do have exceptionally long arms. No, really. They are that long. It’s the reason I feel so connected to the orangutang. We share that in common. Plus we both are blessed with goofy faces.
Grainville Shirt, Liberty
Construction was seriously straight forward. I followed the pattern instructions and used this tutorial from Sewaholic on attaching the collar and stand. Such a wonderful, immaculate finish. Can’t speak highly enough of it. I skipped top stitching on the princess seams at the back and on the yoke. My fabric was too pretty and too busy to worry about that. I also used french seams throughout, except for setting in the sleeves.
Grainville Shirt, Liberty, The Sleeves
I adore this shirt. And I can wear it tucked in, something I haven’t been able to do since 1994.
Grainville Shirt, Liberty
Next on the list is a short sleeve version in a vintage Liberty. Cutting into that one may cause some nerves. But I must hold strong.
Grainville Shirt, Liberty
I’ve also got the Oakridge shirt and the Archer shirt to try. My old style of shirt, knitted vest, skirt and tights may be making a return for Winter 2015.
Grainville Shirt, Liberty (Stitching Looks Less Wonky in Real Life)
Do you have a favourite shirt pattern?
Grainville Shirt, Liberty
Curtsey and happy sewing to you all.
Grainville Shirt, Liberty, Country with a little Western
Pips xxx
Photos: by Tash and Bruce
the girl in a tea cup 
Tooooo cute! I LOVE this shirt, I love the cut, the length of the sleeves, your fabric choice, and how beautifully you’ve sewn it all together. But even more I love that look on your face all through the photo shoot. You are a clever cookie Pips! 🙂
Thanks Rach. I took extra pains to do it all properly and actually follow the instructions. Not my usual method but with such results, I may have to try it again! xxx
Is this my amazing daughter? What a clever mummy to have such a talented child.😝
Tis your amazing child! xxx
Excellent fit and excellent finish.so professional!
Thanks Kerry, it is everything I want in a shirt, including Liberty! xxx
So lovely! You should be proud it looks so TM Lewin 😄. Trying so hard not to buy this pattern but your version is seriously test my resolve!!!
Your collar looks amazing. What sort of interfacing did you use?
Hi Hila, I used a tracing vilene which is a medium weight non stick interfacing, and then I glue basted in onto the fabric. Worked a treat! And not to be an enabler, but you SHOULD get the pattern. It is fabulous! xx
Lols I just did! Printed and taping tonight☺. I am ashamed of my willpower…or lack of😳. It was 33% off for this weekend though. Thanks for the info on interfacing. The interfacing I normally use sometimes bubbles but its iron on. Will check out glue and non stick interfacing. 👏
I believe that it takes will power just to buy one! Definitely try the glue basting. No bubbles or warping on the collar. Just smooth, smooth lines. Good luck, and looking forward to seeing your version. I’m going to cut out the Oakridge today. xxx
Gorgeous liberty, such rich colours. I think I am going to have to breK my pattern fasting for this one!
It’s completely worth one little slip up in the pattern fasting department!
Fantastic! This fits so beautifully. I really love seeing shirts on others, but hate them on me. Yep strong word, but seriously I look and feel ridiculous, no matter the style. I’m just not a button down, tailored kind of girl.
Oh my glob, this is gorgeous Pips! I am 100x jealous. The fit is great (particularly jealous about this because I realised that the fit on my one was pretty bad – way too big in the shoulders/bust) and I love the fabric. Thanks to Mary (Idle Fancy) I finally got my hands on some liberty fabric (it’s $55/m here!) and it will someday soon become a shortsleeved Granville, I hope
Oh, thank you Sophie-Lee! I think I sew about 50% of my clothes in Liberty, which I always maintain is cheeper than purchasing ready made liberty. (have you been to their website? Oh my goodness!) Although I’m going to venture into a silk print of theirs soon. May be the end of me! Look forward to seeing your short sleeve Granville. I’ve been reading your blog for some time. Pips x
I just love this shirt! The fabric is so fantastic and you did a great job. It looks incredible on you! Also, I think this is the first time I’ve seen you in jeans! But you look so stylish and put together. I can’t wait to see what else you make this year.
Thanks Laura. It’s not often I wear jeans without a dress over the top! Hopefully making another shirt this weekend to add to the mix. xx
Wow, Pips, I’m in awe!! Great job!
Thank you Jill! They are getting better with practice ; )
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Great Job! I love the tiny flowers!
Thank you Linda!