Here is another version of my favorite smock blouse pattern. The first time I made one, I followed the hand sewing instructions, and was very pleased with the results. This time, I made one with my sewing machine, using the same methods, including French seams along the sides. I also added rick-rack trim to the cuffs and bottom edge, but it does not show up so well in this photograph.
Making this blouse by machine was different, but I would not necessarily say that it was faster than making one by hand. After all, I still had to cut out, pin, stitch, press, make bias tape and insert elastic. I think that sewing of any kind requires a kind of organization and committment to follow through from start to finish. That is why I disagree somewhat with the notion that sewing by hand (a method I adore) is somehow slower or requires more patience. My response to the “so much patience!” comment is always that since I am so impatient, I must have some hand sewing within reach at all times. I don’t have the patience to not make something when I have the chance.
This smock blouse was made from Japanese fabric, in a cotton-linen blend. I think I bought it at Mano Creare. I love cotton-linen blends because they are sturdy and pretty, almost gauze-y, and look adorable with a little wrinkle in them. I know, I live in fabric paradise.
5 responses so far ↓
Rachel S. // April 27, 2007 at 8:21 am
Beautiful smock and beautiful girl!
I really enjoy reading about your thoughts and experiences about hand sewing. I would like to hand sew a quilt soon and coming here motivates and inspires me. The Jinny Beyer’s book [your recommendation] is good inspiration to hand sew too.
I understand what you’re saying. It’s like hand sewing is more time efficient. If you don’t have a hugh block of time to set aside for sewing, then hand sewing bits and pieces here and there is more productive. I think that’s Jinny Beyer’s thought on hand sewing too. Here’s to “hand sewing within reach.” =)
dailystitches // April 27, 2007 at 12:33 pm
Linda Franz’ Quilted Diamonds (www.lindafranz.com) is also an excellent reference on handsewing. I’m using it on some Dear Jane triangle blocks as we speak. On small fussy blocks, its definately more accurate and about the same time commitment as machine sewing.
I totally agree, I like to have some handwork available at all times. Sometimes its my fill in task while waiting on lines and in doctors offices and such. Other times, it’s just a very peaceful activity to undertake at the end of the day.
And the dress and the little girl are just lovely. Have you ever tried hand smocking? It would look lovely on the fabrics you have access to.
movinghands // April 27, 2007 at 1:38 pm
Yes, I absolutely agree, dailystitches! I discovered Linda Franz and her books about four years ago, and I think her instructions in Quilted Diamonds are wonderful. The “Why Hand Piece?” link in the left column goes to her site…she is amazing.
mermaids // April 29, 2007 at 1:27 am
very sweet little top. i’m the same way….always need to be busy doing something…anything….
Aileen // April 29, 2007 at 6:29 pm
Hi,
I just bought some fabric from sew mama sew because they were so pretty and I just couldn’t resist. Now I don’t know what to do with it. I am scared of using the sewing machine. I have done some basic embroidering on handkerchiefs so I think I could handle doing some hand sewing. Any suggestions on what an easy hand sewing project for a newbie like me might be? I don’t want the fabric to just sit around collecting dust. Mold me! :)
Aileen
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