Blue Bird Flutter 1M1P #8 {Simplicity 1693}

Pattern: Simplicity 1693
Version:  View F with short sleeves
Sizing:  12
Fabric:  1.5 yrds crepe
Notions: ribbon; snap
Assembly time:  3 hrs
Instructions:  not necessarily needed, but good
Modification:  self made bias tape at 2 inches; .5 inch allowance for French seams; narrow hem; added short flutter sleeves; placket neck finish; widen shoulder
Recommend: yes, man!

I am at awe that the month is coming to a close and that I am just getting stronger, more creative at making Simplicity 1693.  One Month, One Pattern has certainly added to my every day shirt selection in a positive way.  Flutter Sleeves 1M1P #3 is my favorite version of this pattern so far; and hence, I based my current version off that beauty.  Choosing fabric with drape definitely upgrades this pattern from homespun to hipster. This shirt is made of a really nice blue bird crepe that I picked-up at JoAnn Fabrics and Crafts. Actually, nearly all the fabric from this series comes from this store to my amazement.  I hope the garment fabric selection keeps improving.  Yah, JoAnn! Keep up the good work, please.

While at first glace this shirt may appear exactly the same as Flutter Sleeves 1M1P #3, there was no duplication; different pieces where used to complete the body.  Two different shirt bodies are included in this pattern.  View A, B, C, and D come from pieces 1 and 2. Flutter Sleeves 1M1P #3 was created from pieces 1 and 2.  These two pieces make straight side seams and a more fitted top.  On the other hand, Pieces 9 and 10 construct View E and F on the pattern envelope resulting in a tenting out shirt.  In addition, piece 10 creates a high-low hem.  Piece 6 results in flutter sleeves, which was used for this version.  If you knew me in real life, it would shock you that I actually like and wear flutter sleeves. As evidence in the picture, the untailored shirt flows in the breeze---so festive for summer.

The low-down of the pattern pieces goes like this:

1) bodice front - box shirt
2) bodice back - box shirt
3) bishop sleeve
4) sleeve elastic length - for bishop
5) waist elastic length (didn't use)
6) flutter sleeve
7) collar
8) sleeve elastic length - flutter sleeve (didn't use)
9) bodice front - tent shirt
10) bodice back - tent shirt

Unfortunately, markings for installing sleeves were not included for pieces 9 and 10.  I copied the markings from piece 1 and 2 to the corresponding back and front piece of 9 and 10.  From what I notice, this work-around is fine.  Really, they should have been included on the pattern hard copy because it allows for even more combinations.  I also modified the pattern by extending the shoulder seam on the inside of the neckline by 1-inch for this variation.  Truth be told, the neckline is perfectly fine as drafted on my body.  Maybe if you are narrow shouldered it would help to expand the shoulder.

I think every post made during the 2014 One Month, One Pattern series has praised the use of French seams.  Please, please, please spend the extra seconds to use this finishing technique; it will pay off.  To top things off, the neckline gap naturally will fold into a lovely placket, making the best neckline gap finish I have ever completed. 

More One Month, One Pattern articles:
Introduction: One Month, One Pattern {Simplicity 1693}
Cotton Ruffles 1M1P #1: One Month, One Pattern Simplicity 1693 {patternreview.com}
Simply Exposure 1M1P #2 {Simplicity 1693}
Flutter Sleeves 1M1P #3 {Simplicity 1693}
From B5997 to S1693 1M1P #4 {Simplicity 1693}
Bishop Sleeves 1M1P #5 {Simplicity 1693}
Turned to a Dress 1M1P #6 {Simplicity 1693}
Fabric Matters 1M1P #7 {Simplicity 1693}
Blue Bird Flutter 1M1P #8 {Simplicity 1693}
It's a Celebration 1M1P #9 {Simplicity 1693}
One Month, One Pattern 2014 Recap {Simplicity 1693}