Pattern hacks are simple yet creative tweaks that can expand the design options of your favorite sewing patterns. Virginia has shared an easy modification to the Liesl and Co Geneva V-neck Blouse, transforming its flared sleeve into a gathered cuff with a bound placket. Let’s hear what she has to say about her project!

I’ve always been drawn to the classic elegance of a v-neck blouse, so I decided to sew the Liesl and Co Geneva V-neck blouse, which offers both flared and lantern sleeves. As we’re transitioning into autumn, I wanted a blouse that would keep me warm while still being stylish. I chose a soft cotton/linen blend fabric and decided to gather the flared sleeve into a cuff with a bound placket for a touch of sophistication.

My usual practice is to shorten the sleeves of Liesl and Co patterns by about 1 inch. However, since I wanted the cuff to sit just below my wrist, I extended the sleeve pattern by ½ inch instead. For the bound placket, I measured 4 inches in from the side of the back of the sleeve pattern and drew a 4 ½ inch line from the bottom of the sleeve. Using the neck binding pattern piece, I cut two strips of fabric slightly longer than the line I had drawn for the binding. Additionally, I cut two pieces measuring 10 ½ inches long and 3 ¼ inches wide for the cuff.

To ensure everything would fit perfectly, I created a muslin version of just the sleeve with the placket. After confirming the length of the sleeve and the width of the cuff, I followed the Liesl and Co instructions to assemble the blouse. Once the sleeves were inserted, I cut along the slit line I had marked at the bottom of the sleeve and attached the placket binding. The side seams and underarm seams were sewn according to the instructions.

I interfaced both cuffs with tricot interfacing, which is my go-to choice for lightweight fabrics. Then, I gathered the bottom of the sleeves to match the cuff size, ensuring ½ inch of the cuff overlapped the sleeve edge. Next, I sewed the right side of the cuff to the wrong side of the sleeve.

Afterwards, I stitched the short ends of the cuffs together, right sides facing, and trimmed the seam allowances. Folding the cuff in half toward the right side, I topstitched the edge to cover the previous stitching line, securing it in place with hand basting to prevent shifting during sewing.

With the cuff complete, I added a buttonhole and button to the bottom of each sleeve for closure. The medium-weight cotton/linen blend fabric I used gives the sleeves a beautiful puff effect near the cuff, adding a touch of charm to the overall design.

Sewing shirts and blouses has always been my favorite, and this project was no exception. The Liesl and Co instructions were clear and easy to follow, allowing me to work at my own pace. I opted for French seams on all the seams, including the shoulders, because they create such a clean finish both inside and out. It’s these little details that make a garment truly special.

I’m already planning to sew more versions of the Geneva V-neck blouse. For my next attempt, I’d like to experiment with a drapey fabric while keeping the gathered sleeve and cuff. Perhaps I’ll also widen the sleeve slightly to achieve a bishop-style silhouette. Sewing is such a rewarding hobby, and every project teaches me something new. I can’t wait to see where my creativity takes me next!



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