This kit is now archived, we have left it here for your reference and inspiration.
Gilbert Blouse Kit
A button up shirt with a relaxed casual fit, the August Sewing Society kit includes everything you need to make a lovely Helens Closet Gilbert Top.
A button up shirt with a relaxed casual fit, the August Sewing Society kit includes everything you need to make a lovely Helens Closet Gilbert Top.
This button up shirt has a relaxed fit with a soft, camp style collar and several different customisable design features to give you a gorgeous garment that can be mix and matched for any season.
Opt for a fun tie front with a slightly cropped length, that still works will with mid-high rise bottoms. Or stick with a longer length - great for tucking in or wearing loose and casual.
Choose between short sleeves, long bell sleeves or for a more summery vibe, go sleeveless and finish off with bias binding. There are optional breast pockets and a beautiful back yoke detail that is finished off using the 'burrito method' - giving you a sleek and professional finish on the inside.
We have 3 amazing fabrics to choose from using the drop down menu below:
'Ecru Pin Stripe' - a linen/viscose mix with a subtle pin-stripe, this fabric has a very natural feel and texture with a lovely weight and drape
'Amber Palms' - this plain weave 100% viscose fabric has a stunning large scale palm print with amber and soft black as the dominant colours on an ecru background.
'Silver Leopard' - this silky smooth 100% Tencel Lawn fabric is extremely soft and floaty, with a stunning subtle leopard inspired print with shades of grey.
With two options for fabric length included in the kit, along with an option for what size range of PDF print out you receive, make this kit customisable to your needs.
This pattern size range is from US 0-30. Within this range there are two sub ranges: the B-cup is US 0-22 and the D-cup is US 12-30.
If you are unsure about what dressmakers cup size you are, please check out this article and note that it is different to what bra size you might wear.
- The PDF digital file for the Helens Closet Gilbert Top* (Size range: US 0-30 Bust 31" - 58") *The link to the PDF instruction booklet and PDF files for all sizes and cup options will be contained in your order confirmation email.
- A0 print out of the Helens Closet Gilbert Top* Choose between sizes ranges US 0-22 (B-cup) OR US 12-30(D-cup) from the drop down menu below. For more information on choosing the right dressmakers cup size for you - click here.
- Fabric - select from option below - 'Up to size US 20' contains 1.8m of fabric and 'Up to size US 30' contains 2.2m of fabric. These lengths are based on making the longer version with long sleeves.
- 1 reel Matching Gutermann Sew All Thread
- Prym Sewing Machine Needles
- 0.8m of light weight non-woven interfacing
- 5 buttons (see pictures below for what buttons are paired with each fabric)
- Sew in woven label - Made by me with g&g
- A physical print out of the instruction booklet will NOT be included. You can view the instruction booklet on your device at home, print it out at home, or add the 'printed pattern instructions' product (see link below) to your order and we will print it for you.
Alongside the purchase of this kit you will receive access to a Laurens exclusive YouTube video to be used alongside the pattern instructions. She shares her hints and tips for getting a lovely finish including working with light weight slippery fabric, adapting the pattern to be sleeveless, how to construct the garment using the burrito method and much more.
The video has over 29 minutes of footage, sectioned out with time stamps/chapters for easy reference and navigation.
The link to the video will be contained in your order confirmation email along with the pdf files, please please file this safely for future reference.
This pattern is aimed at the 'Intermediate' level. This most tricky part is doing the 'burrito method' when constructing the back yoke and inserting the facing.
To complete this project you'll need a basic sewing tools, find out what Lauren recommends in this article.
You'll need a regular sewing machine. An Overlocker is useful but not essential.
If you would like a printed copy of the instructions sent out with your kit, in addition to the PDF copy that you will receive, please see the related products below and add it to your cart as a separate product.
This kit is available for immediate dispatch. Your kit will be wrapped in tissue and beautifully presented in recyclable packaging.
You may be interested in …
More kits
Sewing Tutorials
Laurens essential Sewing tools
The key items you'll need for sewing your own clothes at home
Makers of the Month!
Let's celebrate just some of the great makes from the last month!