Shirt Challenge #4 part 2

I actually like thinking/talking about the process in crafting and sewing more and more. I enjoy reading about other people's process as they make things as well. I thought I would share some of that with you as promised before I spent the week I wanted to use up sewing trying not to cough up my lungs. ew.

First of all, I look at fabric and patterns. I have a few that I keep going back to, and this is probably THE pattern for me. I can't tell you how many times I've made this shirt. I can only say many. I've made them for myself, of course, and both my brother and my dad. Dad used to like having a Christmas shirt to wear during the season, and I know I made him at least 2 of those. I made one or two for Ron, but he has decided that he likes a different pattern, with a stand-up collar better. I think the first time I made it, I was still a teen-ager.

Yes, this pattern is in a zip-lock bag. It is also about 40 years old.

Basic loose fit, button down shirt. I've done it with lining and without lining. I've enlarged it. I've lengthened it. I don't feel like this shirt is much of a challenge, really, but I think the pattern still works.

Wore my new shirt for the first day with students. I liked it!

You can see more of the pattern in the fabric in this photo. When I make this shirt for me, I shorten the sleeves, otherwise I fin myself rolling them up. I also have learned that for the smoothest look for the long run, it is best to sew down the facings in the front. It also saves some on ironing. At least on some versions of the shirt. I also sew the button holes horizontally instead of vertically. This is something my mom started me on. For those of us "of size" it allows a little movement of the buttons without haveing them pop out of the button hole as easily.

Formal? No, workplace appropriate? Absolutely (at least if you work in a school like I do). Comfortable? YES! I am very happy with this new camp shirt!