Portobello Curtain Blouse

Yes, in true Sound of Music style, my latest make started life as a pair of old curtains. 

I bought them from a stall on Portobello Road market, along with these buttons, and just knew the two together would make a fab vintage style blouse.  

I used Megan Nielsen's Banksia pattern, primarily because I was drawn in by the oversized Peter Pan collar. The pattern was a delight: the instructions and diagrams are clear and well written and I like the fact that she gives lots of other suggestions for tweaking the pattern for different looks.  I made a size small, but ended up taking it in quite a lot at the sides.  If I'd taken the trouble to make a muslin, instead of slacking as usual, I'd have probably cut a medium at the bust (the small only just fits), tapering to an XS at the hips. Ah well. I'm reasonably pleased with the fit, but will probably wear it tucked in as it looks more flattering that way.

What else can I say? Well, I learnt a new technique - inserting a placket - which sadly I inserted upside down (sigh) - you can't tell though!  The collar seams are finished with bias tape rather than a facing, which was another plus point for me - facings are just tiresome.  I liked the look of the inside collar so much, I finished the sleeve edges the same way.

I'm pretty pleased with my Banksia and will almost certainly make it again with a few tweaks.  I've convinced myself it's definitely more Anthropologie chic than Von Trapp frump.  

I just need the UK weather to improve so I can wear it in what is technically supposed to be spring season.  I suppose that's what the cardigan was invented for…..!  x