Pattern Review: Valetta Top from Blank Slate Patterns

Pattern Review: Valetta Top from Blank Slate Patterns

If you're looking for a breezy, loose-fitting blouse that looks just as good dressed up as it does casual, the Valetta Top from Blank Slate Patterns might be exactly what you need. This peasant-style blouse features ¾-length sleeves, a split front yoke with tassel closure, soft gathers, and a dramatic high-low hem. It's designed for drapey woven fabrics — and when it's made in the right material, it is gorgeous.

I first made this top after receiving the pattern and some beautiful rayon challis fabric in my IndieStitch subscription box. If you've never heard of IndieStitch, it's a sewing subscription box that sends you a pattern, fabric, and all the notions you need to make a women's garment each month — plus bonus goodies, a sew-along video, and access to a private Facebook community. It's such a fun way to build your handmade wardrobe and improve your skills at the same time.

Pattern Details at a Glance

• Pattern: Valetta Top by Blank Slate Patterns

• Format: PDF download

• Difficulty: Intermediate

• Time to Sew: 3–4 hours

Is It Really Intermediate?

Yes — and here's why. The gathers under the yoke require some patience to get even and neat. The sleeve ties can be confusing if you haven't worked with that type of construction before. And if you've never made a tassel, that adds another new skill to the mix. None of these things are difficult on their own, but together they make this pattern better suited for someone who has completed at least a few garments already.

That said, Blank Slate Patterns writes excellent instructions, so you won't be left guessing. If you're a confident beginner who has made a few tops before, I'd encourage you to go for it.

My Modifications

I made a couple of changes to the pattern and have some suggestions that I think are worth sharing:

• I evened out the hemline. The original pattern has a high-low hem, but I felt it wasn't flattering on my body type, so I made the front and back the same length. This is an easy change to make and gives the top a more classic silhouette.

• I'd add elastic to the sleeve cuffs next time. The pattern calls for ties at the cuffs, which are pretty but a little fussy. Elastic would make the sleeves easier to wear and more comfortable for everyday use.

• I'd raise the neckline slit by 1–2 inches. When the tassels are untied, the neckline sits a little lower than I'd like. A small adjustment here would make the top more versatile.

A Note on Fabric

Rayon challis is an excellent fabric choice for this top. It drapes beautifully, feels incredibly soft, and has just enough stretch to be comfortable in a loose blouse. It is also surprisingly durable and wrinkle-resistant for how lightweight it is.

The one caveat: rayon challis frays like crazy. Handle your cut pieces as little as possible, and make sure you serge or finish every seam. A serger is genuinely your best friend with this fabric — which is a great excuse to use it if you have one!

If you don't have rayon challis on hand, cotton lawn or a lightweight linen would also work beautifully for this pattern.

Final Verdict

The Valetta Top is a well-written pattern that produces a stunning result when made in the right fabric. It's a great next project if you're looking to push your skills a little further without taking on anything overwhelming. I love mine and would definitely make it again — with my modifications, of course!

Have you made the Valetta Top? I'd love to see it — drop a comment below!