The classic button down shirt

I sewed another button down shirt. A number of years ago I took a Craftsy class with Janet Prey, she teaches all kinds of ‘industry’ techniques. Which is all well and good, but I’m not trying to sew in an assembly line. I want a good result. Unfortunately, although my shirts look good, I was really having problems with the collar and collar stand.When I was in Albuquerque I was wearing one of my handmake shirts, of course, one of the sales-women at a quilt store had to inspect every aspect of it. She was impressed, but she recommended taking Pam Howards’ class on Craftsy. I am so glad I did!The fabric is a Liberty Lawn, this style print is much more indicative of Liberty. The fabric is beyond amazing for a shirt. Lighter than quilting cotton, it is lightweight with a tight weave. I loved working with it. The pattern itself is a little simpler than the one I’ve been using up until now. Since I love sewing these shirts out of prints, I see no reason to go back to a pattern that has a separate placket, or a fancy sleeve vent.I usually don’t put on a pocket. I did this time for two reasons, I wanted to follow Pam’s instructions to see how it’s done. I also worked hard to make sure that the print flows without a break.I can’t tell you how pleased I am with the collar! Turns out, working slowly and methodically, doing some hand-sewing as well leads to much better results than fast and quick techniques.I’m loving the sleeve vent, pleats and cuff as well.When sewing, I am always using my serger to achieve nice clean seams. In this class, I learned how to sew the shirt with fell seams, even the sleeve. The inside is as neat as the outside. Pam joked that one could wear the shirt inside out.  The button plackets.The side seam where it meets the sleeve.Inside the cuff and vent.

I am so happy with this shirt, it fits well, it looks more professional than any shirt I’ve ever made. I can use some of these techniques on other garments that have collars and cuffs. I will also be making more of these shirts. There is a short sleeve option, which I intend to make as well.

Never stop learning, never! I immediately ordered two more of Pam’s classes, sewing a jacket and sewing with knits. Since it was the weekend after Thanksgiving, I got a great deal. But at this point, I would have paid a little more. Pam Howard is an amazing teacher!

Leah

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