International Silk and Woolens has some really lovely rayon. I couldn’t resist this one, the plans are another Libby shirt.
Side by side, the rayon on the left is heavier weight, which makes sewing it a little easier.
I guess I found another pattern I’m happy to make more than once. I’m finding that is what happens with shirt patterns, dresses, not so much.
Look at those buttons! Little jewels on the shirt.
Yup, this pattern in rayon is a winner.
Meanwhile, I wasn’t happy with the neckline on the flowly rayon dress. That fabric is so light and airy – like a voile, which is why the neckline simply wouldn’t hold it’s shape.
I know, people will say I should have made a muslin. Had I used actual muslin, the neckline would have been fine, but all the little gathering would have been too boxy. I don’t happen to have the exact weight of this rayon in a throwaway fabric. So I winged it, and came up with something of a solution.
Not great, but it works and I’m more comfortable wearing this without it dropping off my shoulders. I simply removed the bias band, and put in some gathers. I probably could have only ‘eased it’, like one does with a sleeve cap, but I just wanted it done.
Being a little higher up on my back works better as well.
There is no science in this kind of sewing, it’s trial and error, as long as I make it work, it’s all good.
Leah