Old Mexico Dress/Blouse

I’ve had this pattern, Old Mexico Dress by Folkwear in my collection for a while now, it was given to me by my friend Catherine last year in exchange for modelling for Distinctive Sewing Supplies at the CreativFestival.  My intention was (and it might still happen) to make a summer nightgown for one of my daughters in a lightweight cotton voile.

Catherine made the dress in a dark coloured rayon batik, and it convinced me to make one for myself.  The pattern comes in 3 suggested lengths, blouse, hip and dress.  The hip length appealed to me, to wear over slim jeans, and I had the perfect piece of fabric. 

I traced off the pattern in size medium, checked the finished length (it was fine) , then pinned and cut out my blouse. 

As a certified Islander Sewing System teacher, I often analyze construction methods and adapt them to make my sewing easier and more professional.

Attaching the pleated front and back into the yoke was made much easier using the “burrito method”.  (And appropriate, too, for a Mexican pattern) Note how tidy the inside is.

I also sewed the sleeves in flat, (using my serger) instead of “inserting” them, then serged the side-seam up to, but not including the pre-pressed sleeve hem.

The sleeve hems and the bottom were finished with a single needle top-stitch, and a light pressing.  Done.  Now I’m ready for some warm weather.

Do you have this pattern?  Have you made it?  Thoughts?

Yvette Chilcott

I'm a mother of 3, stepmother of 3. My hubby and I share our home with 2 cats, and my hobbies, including my food experiments.

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