Sewing My First Style Arc Pattern - the Francesca Shirt

Sew Essential www.sewessenti...
Francesca shirt by Style Arc www.sewessenti...
Style Arc pattern range www.sewessenti...
Peach skin fabric in red www.sewessenti...
Peach skin fabric in all colours www.sewessenti...
Self cover buttons used www.sewessenti...
Self cover button tool www.sewessenti...
Simflex sewing gauge used for spacing buttonholes www.sewessenti...
High round back and forward shoulder tutorial video • Sewing Pattern Fit Adj...
I finally got around to sewing a Style Arc pattern and I'm so glad I did! I sewed the Francesca shirt pattern up in our peach skin fabric in this gorgeous festive wine colour, but the fabric is also available in a range of other lovely colours too including forest green and this season's must have magenta. It was the perfect weight for this gorgeous ruffle collar and has a beautiful, subtle sheen to it. You can find the sewing pattern and the fabric on our site and I've linked everything in the description below.
This was my first time sewing a Style Arc pattern and there were a number of things I really liked about the pattern. Firstly the different sizes are indicated by different colours making it easy to cut the pattern out. I also loved the fact the seamlines were also marked on the pattern pieces so I could see exactly where I was supposed to sew and it also really helped when making any adjustments. I liked the fact everything was on one big sheet of paper - the pattern pieces, the size chart and the instructions.
The instructions are concise, which I really liked. I think they might be a little bit sparse if you were a complete beginner, although there are lots of sewalongs for the patterns on the Style Arc website too. If you have a good knowledge of garment construction I think the instructions are fine and actually probably better than some of the lengthier versions you find with other pattern brands. I didn't have to keep searching through lots of steps on lots of sheets of paper to find where I was, it was easy to find the relevant sewing step straight away.
I loved the construction, it felt quite industry like to me - quick, simple and neat, no faff. The cuffs didn't require a button and were large enough to slip over your hand and wrist. Also they were sewn onto the sleeve then the seam allowances overlocked rather than messing around with pressing under raw edges and sewing by hand. The ruffle was quick and easy to sew and construct, simply sandwiched between the facing and the neckline.
The fit was great for me. I cut a straight size 8 and just made my usual high round back and forward shoulder adjustment and nothing else. The fit around the shoulders and armholes was particularly good and this is usually a problem area for me.
The fabric I chose was the perfect weight for the ruffles, just enough body and volume without being too stiff. I just had to make sure I trimmed and graded the seams well around the neckline to make sure it wasn't bulky.
All in all I love the Francesca shirt pattern by Style Arc.

[@kimt2au]

I believe you are right and the designer / Owner of Style Arc is Ex Industry, hence the 1cm seam allowance which is standard in industry. The other thing that was also reflective of industry is that originally Style Arc patterns were only available printed in ones size per packet. Later they became available in as multi -size patterns. It was the lack of multi-sizes that always stopped me purchasing these patterns originally as sometimes my daughters want me to make them dresses / tops that I have and they are much slimmer than me which meant I would have had to purchase multiple copies of the patterns. Luckily they changed their patterns to multi-sizes so this is not a problem now. I might look at this pattern myself.

[@sonyasew2]

It looks like the perfect blouse. I like that the blouse came a shape. It fits you well.

[@SewEssential]

Thank you so much, yes I'm really pleased with the fit

[@AllieCasey]

I have this pattern and I keep hesitating because of those front darts...they just look too long and come up too high on the bust. Thanks for showing the actual pattern. I think I may adjust them. Your blouse is lovely!

[@sallyjoyceelliott9499]

Would agree with you on the dart...should finish at least 1" from buste point but doesn't seem to

[@annebrown886]

A really lovely make Lucy 🧵🪡✂️

[@SewEssential]

Thank you so much.

[@theresawagner2642]

I love this pattern, and I've made several. One with short sleeves for Summer. I have also smooshed a more voluminous sleeve onto my long sleeved versions. Your blouse is beautiful and so festive.

[@SewEssential]

Ah thank you, wow your versions sound awesome I'm glad you loved the pattern as much as I did!

[@juliadroy1179]

Love the shirt, haven't used a Style Arc pattern yet looking forward to having a go

[@margaretbrown8128]

Beautiful, I’ve been disappointed with previous Style Arc makes as they seem to make up big, like you I prefer a more fitted blouse so I’m glad to take your suggestions. The material just seems to have jumped into my basket! 😂

[@SewEssential]

Haha fabric has a way of doing that doesn't it?! So glad you liked it and thanks for your kind words.

[@susansnooks9285]

Glad to see you’ve jumped on the StyleArc bandwagon. They are produced in my hometown and I’ve made a number of their patterns. Their instructions have improved greatly since the early days.

[@StyleArcSewingPatterns]

Thank you so much for such a lovely review!

[@SewEssential]

It's an absolute pleasure, I meant every word and will definitely be making more! Feel free to share wherever you like 🥰

[@juliemulie1805]

Beautiful and festive blouse! Personally, I'd end the front dart below the bust point, but that's my taste. My tall women friends love Style Arc patterns. (You are a bold sewer, I usually trace patterns unfamiliar to me).

[@charlotteanderson3727]

Thank you so much, Lucy. I adore you in that red! I have had the Francesca shirt in my Style Arc cart for ages and you've verified that I need it! I always enjoy your videos. If I may offer a comment intended to be helpful, I would encourage you to explore lowering the end point of your bust dart to about 3/4" below your apex. I have found (with my average-sized bust) that by moving the dart point away from my apex allowed for the fullness I need without the dart being more prominent. Hoping I am not hurting your feelings because I am always so envious of how beautiful your garments look on your lovely figure.

[@cynthiasloan3867]

I've never used a StyleArc pattern, didn't think they'd be for me but after this video I think I will give it a try. That blouse looks great.

[@SewEssential]

Aaah that's great Cynthia, honestly I really enjoyed this project and will definitely be checking out more of the 96 designs we stock, I've seen loads I like over the years and just never got around to making one, but now I have I won't look back!

[@aleciacope3503]

What a beautiful blouse! Another home run, Lucy!

[@blufaerie]

This is lovely and I adore that ruffled neckline! I’ve never tried StyleArc but I feel after a full year of sewing I’m willing to attempt.

[@SewEssential]

Thank you so much for your lovely comments, yes why not, go for it, like I say there are some sewalongs on their site too just in case, although not for all the patterns, but honestly I'm sure you'll be fine if you take your time and are kind and patient with yourself.

[@HelenaBoyle]

Great Video thank you! For me, discovering Style Arc patterns a few years back is the best! I am able to make every pattern with no adjustments whatever - I just check the measurements before I start, choose the size and go for it. Fit perfectly. Their dresses and blouses are a dream to make and so different - in particular the Trinnie and Belle dresses this summer. Am just waiting for you to have new 'Philomena' in stock. Thanks for all the videos - I really enjoy them on Fridays.

[@SewEssential]

That's so brilliant to hear, yes I was amazed at the fit too and I LOVE the Belle dress and was only thinking about that last night when I was wide awake in the middle of the night! As soon as it is available in the UK we'll add it to the site so stay tuned.

[@HelenaBoyle]

@@SewEssential Fabulous!

[@252jdw1]

I love this style! I am quite short in the body so would need to shorten. Would you suggest that I shorten in the upper body, including the facing and ruffle otherwise I can see that it would be too low cut! Hope that makes sense. Thanks for a great video

[@SewEssential]

That sounds like a sensible plan to me, you are right it is quite low so could be even lower on you. Thanks for the lovely comments and for watching.

[@joesmay]

I made this pattern in a double gauze, it does look fabulous on the hanger - but - I need to make the neckline higher, and I found the back neckline ruffle too high, just didn’t set right wearing a cardi over it. Your red shirt looks fabulous. Love Style Arc patterns. Cheers

[@michaelgracewatts2943]

Really lovely shirt and it suits you so well, Lucy....Grace

[@SewEssential]

Thank you that's really kind of you

[@susanschultz2355]

That blouse was designed for YOU--you look amazing in it! I just ordered the pattern and am so pleased that Style Arc has more detailed instructions and even a tutorial for this blouse. I love Style Arc patterns--they are so on trend and the size 8 is always a perfect fit for me. Now that Style Arc is offering tutorials I will order even more patterns from them. I hope you continue to make videos of patterns from the company.

[@robynlaszlo6128]

I have done style arc many times love them they have improved on there instructions the blouse is gorgeous maybe i will grab one thanks

[@ctaylorluce]

I've had my eye on this pattern and I love your results and commentary. I have bought a few Style Arc patterns and have had a good experience with them. I adore the Anais shirt dress particularly.

[@SewEssential]

Thank you so much, I'm really pleased too. I was worried it might be a bit oversized when I looked at the photos of their version so chose a size 8 and I'm really pleased with how it turned out. I also like the way the collar sits and I think that is possibly due to picking the right size too. Oooh I'll have to check that dress pattern out!

[@elsafischer3247]

Thank you so much I look them up and the styles are so great. Greetings from Switzerland

[@marleneciborowski4343]

I'm so glad you did this video. I have this pattern on order and your video has really made me inspired to get started. It looks great on you.

[@angelanna5381]

I love your make and that colour is perfect on you. As a beginner sewer, I just wondered what difference your stitch length makes ...why do you wish you'd lengthened it slightly?

[@janicek6399]

So pretty!

[@SewEssential]

Thank you so much

[@annerobinson647]

It's super and I especially like the collar. Very stylish and you chose a lovely colour too 🎄

[@helenberry1942]

Your shirt is beautiful! I have never sewn with Style Arc patterns but I think that is about to change. Thank you for a great review.

[@lunasmum6869]

What a lovely blouse! It is a bit low in the front for me but I think that could be overcome. How do you measure your shoulder width without someone to help you? I would have to lower the bust point, I like the way it is 'built in' and, maybe, lengthen the whole blouse, I am long waisted so need the length. The blouse looks fabulous on you and that fabric is perfect. Thankyou so much!

[@jenniferewart]

Love the blouse and love Style Arc patterns . I am not an experienced sewer and have only chosen pretty simple patterns from them, .but have used their on line tutorials which are great. I might give this blouse a go, but buttonholes are my downfall !!!!!

[@SewYourselfaCapsuleWardrobe]

Fabulous shirt! Have subscribed ❤

[@michellezaplitny2458]

What a great shirt! I think it would also look great without the neck ruffles!

[@bridgetstonesew.bridget3967]

Looks fabulous 👌

[@sharonscott8358]

This looks like the sort of blouse I would wear and definitely want to give it a go. I love the wine colour in the fabric but don't know which thread to pick. It would be lovely if you had a thread matching service available with a click of a button as I know, Gutermann, in particular, have such a range of colours that it is often possible to get just the exact shade. As it is, I would need to wait for the fabric to arrive and then go elsewhere for the thread as I am not confident of picking the right shade from your website. Just a thought.

[@lindalandesman2326]

That’s adorable❤

[@lesleydawson6984]

I have tried several style arc patterns and love them all, will definitely be trying this next. Do you stock self covering buttons..

[@elaine58100]

Lovely blouse! What exactly is peach skin and what other fabric would best describe it? Just to get an idea of the texture of it. Thank :)

[@denisedeiro]

I don’t quite understand where to cut the pattern: on the dotted lines or straight lines? Do we have to add the seam allowance? Please, help!

[@dorothytomniuk4106]

I think if you're used to big 4 patterns, Style Arc patterns would be easy to follow. If you're more used to the independent pattern companies, Style Arc would be more difficult re: instructions.