Eye-catching pleated sleeves

This pattern appealed to me as I haven’t sewn inverted sleeves before and I don’t have any elbow-length sleeve tops. I sewed it up in black and white gingham cotton from Fabric Godmother and bound it with a matching binding, also from Fabric Godmother.  In retrospect, I should probably have taken an inch off the bottom as I bound the blouse instead of hemming it.  I faced the neckline per the instructions, then later decided to add the binding on top as I had enough left and I thought it was a pretty finish to match the hem.

I selected a size 16, according to my body measurements, graded out to 18 from the bust down and a C cup (the availability of cup sizes is great).  I dropped the bust dart by 1.5 inches.  The fit is good. I’m usually a rtw 12-14 so I was right to size up.

I got a bit confused about the pleating of the sleeves but I think I was trying to read more complexity into the instructions than was the case.  It will be easy next time!  The pattern instructions are good and I am pleased with the finished garment.

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