When I bought the Archer Button Up Shirt pattern over a year ago, it seemed daunting to figure out my size AND sew a pattern with all those steps and new techniques. In the time since I've gotten a few collared, buttondown shirts under my belt (Theo 1, Theo 2, Alder). The perfect build up to my ultimate goal: Archer View B.
from @kristi_sweetkm
PATTERN: Archer Button Up Shirt pattern from Grainline Studio. This pattern is all over the inter web, you hardly need me to tell you what I think of it. It's a great pattern. When I'm sewing with Grainline Studio I usually use the instructions from the sewalong. Jen has a few tips and options for how to finish the collar stand and the collar points. I found them much more helpful than the bare bones pattern instructions.FABRIC: This is the very same chambray from my last chambray shirt. I don't think I have enough fabric left to make anything else with it. At the very least my next project will be sewn with a different chambray!
ALTERATIONS: I made this shirt with an Anthro tunic in mind. To achieve a similar look I added 1"of length to the front to make sure I had adequate coverage to wear it with leggings. I also wanted to move the line where the tail meets the back of the bodice up to my natural waist. I thought it would be a little more flattering to my shape if it didn't accentuate my bum. To do this I shortened the upper back piece by 4", then lengthened the lower back piece by 5" to accommodate the 4" I took out of the top and the 1" I added to the overall length.
SIZE/FIT: I graded between a 6 at the bust, an 8 at the waist, and a 10 at the hip. Initially it seemed a little big over all, but now that I've worn it a bit I kind of like that. I have already cut out a View A that is just a 4 bust to a 6 everything else, I hope I don't regret the smaller sizing. The sleeve is also about 1/2" too long. I normally roll sleeves so it's no big deal, but I'll fix it next time.
Now on to that Archer View A...
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Linking up with Straight Grain readers today.
it looks awesome. dude i know what you mean about the 'rut' colors or fabrics or whatever (if everything i made was blue and gray i'd die happy). i mean...this is all for our own closets, right? i never tire of seeing it on other people's blogs, i'm now just jealous i don't have a slightly different slightly darker chambray archer from the one i just made! haha.
ReplyDeleteHa! When I was making this Archer, I saw another one in light denim. Now I HAVE to have it, cause light blue is totally different than dark.
DeleteThis looks great and I love your modifications! When I just saw it on Instagram I thought I couldn't remember this view looking so flattering, but that's because you raised the seam. If I were to make this view that is definitely what I would do after seeing yours.
ReplyDeleteP.S. You can never gave too much chambray! ;-)
So glad you like it. I knew view B as designed wouldn't work for me, well worth the simple alteration.
DeleteFabulous Archer! I'm a fan of this pattern, though the ruffle rear version I made left me feeling a bit meh. I really like how you raised the ruffle --- that's really nice! And I can't leave without saying YUM about that lovely dark chambray you used. I adore your "uniform" --- it's so classy / casual :D!
ReplyDeleteThanks Ginny. I keep meaning to sew something more exciting, but there is so much good chambray out there, I'm not sure this is the last.
DeleteLove your mods - subtle but great. And there's nothing wrong with chambray! I'm going thru a blue fabric period too, and loving it.
ReplyDeleteThanks! I have noticed your blue period. I think sewing bloggers go in a circle of influencing each other's fabric/color choices.
DeleteLoving this archer! I bought the patter because the view B, but when i attempt the making i surely will do what you did. I always was worried the style will make my hips wider than the are already!. Fantastic job
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to see your version. Normally I wouldn't wear leggings without a bulky long sweater. The altered bum ruffle, and extra inch of length, work as hip camouflage.
DeleteIve not been a fan of the Archer, I thought it would look like a shent on me. Your waistline adjustments really make it work. Enjoy your uniform. Right now, my stay at home mom uniform of yoga pants and tshirts is embarrassing. (I upgrade to jeans if I have to go out)
ReplyDeleteHa! I am in yoga pants and a tee more often than not, especially in the winter. My 5 y.o. told me it's not fair I get to wear jammies all day. I don't sleep in them, but they sure do look like pajamas. :) This (and all other "nice" clothes) will get more wear in the spring.
DeleteGenius! While View A paired with the darts from Alder is my go-to TNT shirt pattern, I've never considered View B, as the last thing I need is more volume out back. Moving it up 5" makes it a super cute tunic, though! I'm definitely going to try this out for the next one I do.
ReplyDeleteThanks Kate. Good idea to use the Alder dart. I'm 1/2 way through my first view A but I'm not loving it. Next time, I'll try the dart.
DeleteThis looks lovely. I'd be pretty content with that "uniform"!. I'm sure there are plenty of people sewing bright floral shirts and they're probably very happy too, but this is pleasing my eyes immensely!
ReplyDelete