To me, the strapline of Art Gallery Fabrics couldn't be more fitting: "feel the difference". Let me tell you, you really can feel the difference. This is not the first time I've used AGF fabrics (see my last encounter with one of their cotton jerseys http://www.queenofdarts.com/2016/02/my-very-own-moneta.html), but it still didn't prepare me for just how beautiful this rayon challis feels. I mean, I couldn't stop stroking it!

And that print, and that colour! This design is from the Arizona After collection by April Rhodes, inspired by her warmth and magic of the southwestern spirit. It's called Ojos, which means eyes in Spanish, and the colour is called flame. Swoon!

I had so many ideas for this fabric - a dress, trousers, maxi dress... and really felt the pressure to do it justice. It was a really touch call! I decided on the Sewaholic Pendrell in the end, because of how versatile it is. I figured that I'd want to show this beautiful fabric off as much as possible, with as little restriction like weather or occasion as possible.

It's also a bonus that I've already got the pattern in my stash 🙂

As a big fan of Sewaholic patterns (remember my first ever Minerva Maker project? https://www.minerva.com/posts/1008343), the Pendrell did not disappoint. I've always liked the ruffles on all the versions that I've seen, and in a way, can't believe that the pattern is roughly 10 years old! It has really stood the test of time.

I cut the view B in size 4, as I wanted it to be nice and "blousy", and since it has no closure (yep!), I wanted to make sure that it wouldn't be a big workout to get it over my head. Although I am not pear-shaped (which is what Sewaholic patterns intend to cater for), the only adjustment that I made was to shorten it by 3 inches from around the waistline (as opposed to chopping off the length at the bottom, which you can also do due to the shape of this pattern). I was ready to adjust the curves in the princess seams, but the fit was lovely straight out of the envelope.

It came together pretty easily. Although the instructions were perfectly fine, I always enjoy a super detailed sew-along to refer to. It's such a good way to pick up new sewing tips! The dedicated sew-along is here (http://sewaholic.net/tag/pendrell-blouse-sew-along/), and it has 14 instalments! Fear not - this is not at all because it is a difficult sew.

This was such a lovely project, not only because the handling of this fabric during the cutting, sewing and even ironing process has been oh so heavenly. I really think that it will get lots of wear in the future. I envisage wearing it to the office (whenever that day comes again!), teamed with a pencil skirt, or meeting up with friends (again... when we have more normality again) in my jeans. For now though, I'm just very pleased to have you lovely lot to be sharing my latest makes with, and thank you for reading.

Take care,
Alice from Queen of Darts
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