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If you’re looking for an easy, loose-fitting blouse pattern, you might like the Valetta Top from Blank Slate Patterns. It is designed for woven fabrics that have a nice drape. I received the pattern and some beautiful rayon challis fabric in my February IndieStitch box! As always, I thought it would be useful to write a pattern review for you.
If you’ve never heard of IndieStitch, it’s a sewing subscription box where you get a pattern, fabric, and all the notions you need to make a women’s garment. You also get extra goodies and access to a sew-along video and a private Facebook community. It’s a lot of fun! If you want to improve your sewing skills and build your handmade wardrobe at the same time, I highly recommend IndieStitch.
I really like the Valetta top, too! Here’s a picture of the finished garment:
Valetta Top Review
CLICK HERE to Get the Valetta Top Pattern
Pattern Description: Peasant-style blouse with ¾-length sleeves, split front yoke, tassel closure, soft gathers, and dramatic, high-low shirt hem.
Time to Sew: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Intermediate
Format: PDF download. I got the printed pattern from IndieStitch.
I rated this pattern intermediate because the gathers under the yoke are a little tricky and the sleeve ties can be confusing. If you’ve never made a tassel, that can be challenging too. Overall, the Valetta Top is a good pattern and Blank Slate Patterns does a good job with their instructions. As long as this is not your first garment sewing project, I say go for it!
I only made one modification to the pattern. I made the front and back hemline the same because I don’t think the low-high hem is flattering on my body. If I were to make the Valetta Top again, I’d add elastic to the sleeve cuffs instead of ties. I would also raise the slit at the neckline by 1-2 inches because it is slightly low for me when the tassels are not tied.
I absolutely love rayon challis for this top. It is wrinkle-resistant, durable, and soft to the touch. It also has a slight stretch that works well for clothing. Rayon challis is a little tricky to sew because it frays so easily, but if you avoid handling the seams too much, you’ll be fine. Serged seams are a must with rayon challis!
What do you think? Are you going to give the Valetta Top a try? Let me know in the comments below.