***Meet the Mister***
Oh boy! I made it to the fourth round in the Super Online Sewing Match. And {drum roll}…it’s the menswear challenge! It was with a mixture of excitement and trepidation that I began work on the Colette Negroni. Men’s shirts are inherently simple looking, but in their simplicity, leave little room for error. I’d like to say that things went smoothly with nary a bump in the road, but alas, I hit a roadblock before even beginning to sew. I’ll tell you about it, but let me first assure you that once I got rolling again, the Colette Negroni pattern did not disappoint. I’m looking forward to sewing it again. Okay, onward to photos. It wasn’t super easy to photograph this fabric. Getting the top stitching and flat felled seams to show up was a challenge. Some of the photos are smaller to try and lessen the gingham vibration. My eyes are now a wee wonky, so proceed with caution. I have added extra written information so you can better understand what you are viewing.
Back View, centre back pleat with fabric loop.
Front view, collar, long sleeves
This view shows the left sleeve placket, inside cuff, and pocket. Pocket has an inverted pleat, and although it’s difficult to see, the ‘X’ detail on the placket is sewn onto the pocket also.
This photo is of the right sleeve placket and cuff, and a close up view of the pocket towards the right of the photo.
Left photo is a view of the inside and outside of machine stitched hem.
Right photo is an outside view of flat felled seams at underarm.
Left photo is of inside flat felled seam along side seam.
Right photo shows the inside flat felled seam on the armhole at the yoke.
The Fabric, The Inspiration, & The Pattern
The fabric is a 100% cotton in a small gingham check. Additionally, I used a small amount of accent fabric, also 100% cotton. My inspiration was my husband. Glen wears two kinds of shirts…Hawaiian inspired shirts in crazy, fun prints in summer, and stand up collared shirts the rest of the year. So what do I sew? Version two of the Negroni is a sure thing for a casual Hawaiian style shirt. It has the short sleeves, the camp style collar, and an easy relaxed vibe. Version one, with long sleeves, has more of the challenges I want to sew; specifically the cuffs and the sleeve plackets. I decide to sew version one and alter it by adding a stand up collar and front placket. I fret that I have strayed too far from the original pattern, but I know that this style of shirt will not be a miss with the mister. I made the pattern adjustments with the help of my trusty Vogue Sewing book, copyright 1975.
Variations on a Design
Added collar stand and collar with collar stays.
Altered front placket.
Close-up view of the collar stand and under collar. The under collar is made with two pattern pieces sewn together and has slots for removable collar stays.
Front Placket, buttonholes, and buttons.
A close-up photo of the front placket, mother of pearl button,
machine stitched buttonholes, and collar.
Inside collar stand and stitched detail on inside yoke. This view also shows the inside of the left front placket and the inside of the right facing.
The Challenges
The FIT! I had a challenging time getting this pattern to fit the mister. The shoulders are designed for a square shouldered dude, and it was pulling and hanging all kinds of wrong on Glen. The bottom of the yoke was quite slanted and bunched at the armhole. I ended up making the yoke smaller at the sleeve end, which really helped with the hang of the shirt. Unfortunately, that left me with a teeny yoke, and the challenge of making the sleeve fit. Logic suggested that if the yoke was 1-1/2″ smaller, then the sleeve needed to be 1-1/2″ smaller as well. I made several attempts at reworking the sleeve head, but it became apparent that a smaller sleeve was not the answer. Each time I resewed the muslin, I was faced with the same problem…not enough ease in the sleeve. That may be okay if you never have to move your arm up…no driving, no TV remote clicking, and no beer drinking! Yikes! I had to keep the sleeve the same measurement, and somehow add 1-1/2″ back to either the front, back, or yoke pattern piece. What worked? I added 1″ to the bottom of the yoke, drawing a line at right angles to the centre back fold. I added 1/2″ to the top sleeve edge of the back pattern piece, again drawing a line at right angles to the centre back fold. And, it worked! In the end, it was more about redistributing the fabric as opposed to taking it out. I think the shirt has a very nice silhouette now. No weird pulling and bunching at the arms. Whew! I also moved the back shoulder pleats into a single pleat at the centre back. This small tweak also helped.
Sleeves rolled up, under cuff peaking through.
In The End
Well, for whatever reason I was more anxious about this challenge than the previous ones. Initially, I had the challenge of fitting the pattern, I was uncertain how my revised design would go over with the judges, and I was nervous about having my buttonholes scrutinized at close range. Hopefully, it’s all been just over-thinking on my part. Once I got the fit correct and I began sewing, I felt better, and things progressed methodically and without problems. The instructions were easy to follow, and I really liked the pattern piece for the sleeve placket. I think I’ve been able to turn out a well tailored shirt. We’ve got two thumbs up on this end…I am pleased with the outcome, and so is Glen. We are just four contestants and soon to be three. Next week, I’m off to the PNE, Vancouver’s annual summer fair. When I see the old wooden roller coaster, I will think, ‘Yup, that’s me this summer! It’s a wild ride I’m on, I’m having a ball, and I’m thrilled to being sharing the ride with you!’ Thanks for all your sweet and encouraging comments! And special thanks to Glen for agreeing to appear on my blog. I’m very hopeful to be going on to the final round of the Super Online Sewing Match!
Linking up with:
Heather at Feather’s Flights for: You Flew Tuesday Sewing Link Up
Flo says
Very nice! And FYI–I did see the stitching on the pockets on my screen, so you should be good. I like the contrast fabric you chose, how fun. And collar stays–haven't seen those on a shirt in a long time. I do have to say that every time you post the photos for these projects, I am more and more impressed with your sewing talents, you pay so much attention to details that a lot of people wouldn't even think about. Your print matching is phenomenal!! That is something that drives me nuts with commercially made clothing 😉
Mary says
Beautifully conceived, sewn, and photographed! Good luck this round! I really enjoy following your journey.
thequirkypeach says
WOW! This is amazing! Totally professional level – the up-close pictures are quite impressive 😉 Way to go 🙂 Love your print-matching!
amy mayen says
You are so brave…menswear is tough! I love your accent fabric Sue..and Glen is handsome indeed! You amaze me each week! I think you are one of those people who thrives under pressure and does well being pushed outside of their comfort zone. A beautiful job once again!
Jo-Anne says
Well done Sue!! Gorgeous fabrics and exquisite workmanship. I'm impressed. Love the colour combination.
Val Sparkle says
Sue, you continue to amaze and impress! I just love the contrasting liner fabric and the way you kept it symmetrical at the neck, and used it for the little extra yoke lining. All the stitches and detailing are stunningly perfect, and the shirt looks so crisp and smart. The thing that really sends me over the top is the way you used the bias to make the fabric loop at the back!!! I bet Mr. Sue is very proud to wear this shirt!
The PNE looks like fun. If I hadn't just come back from a trip I'd drive up to meet you there!
MaeveM says
Very Nice! You have done a wonderful job on this shirt – it is just perfect!
Marla Robinson says
That shirt is amazing. I always look forward to seeing your creations.
Ellen says
Handsome! Great details and fabric choices!
Shirl says
Ahhh, this shirt is Glen worthy. Very nice contrasting fabric. I am so impressed with the amount of “figuring things out” for these projects you have done…..Now, onto the last round!
Shirl
Emalina says
They're really making you work hard for this competition, but you're excelling every step of the way! Like Shirl I love the contrasting fabric.
Titanium Woman says
OMG, this shirt is truly amazing!! You are such a good sewer and sew creative!! I love following this competition and your blog. Thank you.
Trina says
I am simply breathless. This shirt looks like it just came off the rack at Nordstrom's, seriously! You are amazing, to say the least. Love the choice of fabric, the gingham and paisley are just splendid together and the colors are incredible. You are my hero! I'm so thrilled for you and so grateful that we all get to see your amazing talent.
pastcaring says
Oh my goodness, Cousin Sue! You are so incredibly good at this! The shirt is a triumph, and as usual, it's the details and the care you have taken with them which really impress. The contrasting cuff and collar fabric, the collar stays, the loop at the back, these are lovely touches. I think Glen looks like a very contented (not to mention stylish!) model! Good luck for the competition. xxxxx
shams says
That is a beautiful man's shirt! And just enough fun detailing for your Hawaiian loving shirt guy to enjoy in private.
lattegirl40 says
Wow!! Just fantastic!! Would never attempt this in a million years!! you rock!
Erin || Sewbon.com says
Sue, you never cease to wow me! This shirt is perfect!
Cindy says
Holy Crap! Didn't think you could out do your tote – but WOW. Your perfection amazes me, and Glen – you look completely dashing wrapped in Sue's lovely work of art! Keep goin' kid! You're knocking them dead!!
Kelli Ward says
this looks really amazing. Great job. i am especially impressed by your collar stays. what an awesome idea and professional results.
Dk's Wife says
It is awesome. You done such a wonderful job on the shirt.
popcosmo says
Amazing! You are super talented and this shirt looks, well, custom-made! He is one lucky MR!! I adore the detail inside the cuff and collar. Only a custom shirt could have such a wonderful personalized touch. What an amazing competition and you are rocking it. I definitely need to follow along in your progress!!! Congrats!
xo ~kim & chloe
sabine says
Sue the shirt is great! I love the different pattern at the inner cuff and at the shirt collor – that makes it unique. Keep it up!
Sabine xxx
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Flo! And thanks for letting me know that you are able to see the details.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you Mary. It was fun photographing my husband for a change!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Aw, thank you so much Quirky Peach!
PS I love peaches so very much! One of my favourite fruits, :).
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Amy. It's true that I want to do show my best work, and it's true that there is some pressure brewing around these challenges, LOL.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you so much Jo-Anne. My two fabrics came from different parts of the store. When I saw them together, I said, 'Yup, this is the match I want.'
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Val!! I used so little of the contrasting fabric, I was able to play around with the symmetry of the fabric. Thanks for noticing!
Maybe next year for the fair?
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you very much Maeve! I appreciate your comment.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Aw, thanks Marla so much.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you Ellen, I appreciate your comment!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Hey, thanks Shirl. Yes, two days of wait and see now…
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you Emalina…they are putting us to task, and everyone is really doing well. Thanks for the encouragement!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank You for following along. Cute comment about being sew creative!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Aw, thank you lovely Trina!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Hee hee, cousin Curtise has a nice ring to it. Ah, the delights of meeting blogging friends that could be relations! Thanks for the best wishes. xoxox
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Shams…yup, the mister agrees that the details are just right…although he does want a Hawaiian style shirt as soon as I can sew one up.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you dear lattegirl!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks so much Erin!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Ha Ha…Thanks for the encouragement!! I do appreciate the enthusiasm.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Aw, thanks so much for popping by Kelli! I'm honoured to be sewing along with you.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you so very much for taking the time to comment. It means a lot to me.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks both Kim and Chloe. Isn't he the lucky mister.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you Sabine! I wanted to do a little something to make it one of a kind!
grammytheyeti.com says
Wow! Simply wow. The attention to detail just on matching the gingham is incredible. Everything matches perfectly! And you're a special seamstress to be able to adjust the pattern to “the customer”. That takes skill and experience to make it work. He looks like he could go from the office to drinks after work in this shirt. Very, very nicely done!
The Style Crone says
This amazing shirt looks great on your handsome husband. I love the details. Hoping for your participation in the final round!
Marjorie N. says
Such talent, Sue; so stylish & handsome Glen!
Tamera Beardsley says
My dear Sue… I am in utter awe of your diligent craftsmanship. Having grown up with a mother who not only sewed… but our family also owned a fabric store… and having spent many years sewing myself … your level of perfected craftsmanship leaves me dropped jawed.
i love visiting your blog… not only to see your stunning work… but for the glimpses into your light filled soul.
xoxox
Tamera
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you for the lovely comment Grammy! My husband was very patient with fittings which was a big help!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks for the good wishes Judith!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Hey Marjorie!!! Thanks for popping in to say Hi.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Dearest Tamera, your kind words have touched me deeply. Thank You. xo
Imogen says
You are truly impressive and incredible. I actually always thought a men's shirt would be extremely difficult to sew because of all the sections and components…. If its anything like ironing a shirt, it must be extremely challenging. Looks wonderful and what a fabulous model!!! Totally knows what he's doing.
dan says
Once more I am impressed seeing your ability, Sue. Making a man skirt isn' t an easy task!
And what a great care for details!! My compliments also to the Mister. . . he is a perfect model!
Wendy says
WOW!!!! Sue my jaw just hit the floor- this blouse is flawless! You have some serious skills!
Lynn Dylan says
You did not make this. Right? I mean, WOW!!! My hat is off to you girl, you go ahead on and sew!!!! You are amazing. This is flawless, perfect, and I love it!! XOXO Lynn
Lynn Dylan says
PS — the mister is pretty cute! I guess he deserves some attention too for being brave and going on a blog. 🙂
Anonymous says
Sue, I just saw the results on the sewmamasew website. I have to say I think they made a mistake! Your shirt was my favorite!
Ariane Lasalle says
What an awesome job, that must have been some challenge to get the fit right!
I love the pattern and love the little details, this is what makes men's fashion, little details
I wonder if Mr D will appear one day on my blog
We are getting married next May or so – Hopefully he will appear on my blog when we get married, that is special enough to appear on my blog, don't you think –
The cats are behaving extraordinary well!
hugs
Ariane x0
Nicole says
I know it must have been a difficult decision for the judges, but I'm completely shocked that you didn't make it through to the finals! Seriously, I had pegged you all along as the winner! Your shirt (and everything else you've made) was absolutely impeccable.
Suzanne Carillo Style Files says
I simply cannot believe you sewed an man's shirt! To me that has to be one of THE hardest things next to a complete suit. I love the touches of flare in the cuffs and behind the neck. Very Robert Graham.
I also cannot believe you didn't make it through to the finals. I know you would have loved to have that new sewing machine.
You are a sewing genius in my book.
Thanks for the kind thoughts on my blog : )
bisous
Suzanne
Heather Feather says
It totally looks store-bought! That's amazing! I have made a men's shirt and understand how much work and precision goes into one! I am so impressed, and the funky linking is the perfect touch!
Pam @Threading My Way says
Looks so professionally sewn!!! Very impressive!!!
Merche Martinez says
Hello! I´m so impressed with this one! I have that Negroni pattern but I´m so scared of it…or of sewing for my husband who is not very picky style-wise but pust comfort and wearability first. I wish I could make one just as pretty as yours!…Well, his!
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