Sari Styling: Mastering the Art of Sewing a Saree Blouse

AvatarByJill Nammar

Saree, originating from the Indian subcontinent, is more than just a piece of clothing, it is a symbol of grace, elegance, and tradition. The beautiful drape of the saree is incomplete without a well-fitted and stylish saree blouse. However, finding the perfect saree blouse can be a daunting task, and often expensive. But what if we told you that you could sew your own saree blouse at home? Yes, you read that right! In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of sewing your very own saree blouse. Not only will it save you money, but it will also add a personal touch to your wardrobe. So let’s dive into the world of sewing and learn how to sew a saree blouse like a pro!

Understanding the Basics of Sewing a Saree Blouse

Sewing a saree blouse can seem like a daunting task, especially for those who are new to sewing or have little experience with traditional Indian clothing. However, with the right materials and techniques, anyone can sew a beautiful and customized saree blouse. In this article, we will guide you through the basics of sewing a saree blouse, from measuring your body to choosing the right fabric and finally stitching it all together.

Choosing the Right Fabric

The first step in sewing a saree blouse is choosing the right fabric. The most commonly used fabric for sarees is cotton, as it is comfortable and easy to work with. However, you can also use silk or georgette for a more luxurious look. When shopping for fabric, make sure to choose something that suits your personal style and preferences. It’s also important to keep in mind that the fabric should be lightweight and not too stiff, as it needs to drape nicely over your body.

Measuring Your Body

One of the key factors in sewing a perfect saree blouse is taking accurate measurements of your body. This will ensure that your blouse fits you well and looks flattering on you. To get started, measure your bust, waist, and hips using a measuring tape. It’s also important to take into account any design elements such as sleeve length or neckline preference when measuring.

Creating A Pattern

Once you have your measurements ready, it’s time to create a pattern for your saree blouse. You can either buy a pre-drafted pattern or create one yourself using a basic t-shirt as a template. You can also find free patterns online that you can print out and use. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully when cutting out your pattern pieces.

Cutting Your Fabric

After you have your pattern ready, it’s time to cut out your fabric. It is essential to lay your fabric on a flat surface and make sure the grain line is straight before cutting. This will prevent your blouse from twisting when sewn together. Also, be mindful of any patterns or prints on the fabric and make sure they are aligned correctly.

Stitching The Blouse Together

The next step is to stitch your blouse together. Start by pinning the pattern pieces onto the fabric and then sewing them together using a sewing machine or by hand. It’s essential to pay attention to details such as seam allowances, backstitching, and finishing raw edges.

Adding Design Elements

If you want to add some design elements to your saree blouse, now is the time to do so. This could include decorative borders, lace trims, or embroidery work. You can also experiment with different necklines, sleeve styles or back designs to customize your blouse further.

Finishing Touches

Once you have finished sewing all the parts of your saree blouse together, it’s time for the finishing touches. This involves hemming the bottom edge of the blouse, adding hook-and-eye closures for the back, and attaching any buttons or tassels if desired. Make sure all seams are pressed flat for a polished look.

Troubleshooting Common Sewing Mistakes

Sewing a saree blouse can be challenging at times, especially if you are new to sewing. However, don’t get discouraged if you encounter any issues along the way – there are solutions for common sewing mistakes.

Fabric Not Draping Well

One of the most common problems when sewing a saree blouse is when the fabric doesn’t drape well on your body. This could be due to using the wrong type of fabric or not cutting the fabric on the grainline. To avoid this issue, always make sure to choose lightweight and flowy fabric and measure and cut your fabric carefully.

Inaccurate Measurements

If your blouse doesn’t fit well or is too loose, it could be because of inaccurate measurements. Always double-check your measurements before cutting into your fabric and make any necessary adjustments to the pattern. Also, remember that everyone’s body is different, so don’t be afraid to make personal alterations to your pattern for a better fit.

Breaking A Needle/Thread Tension Issues

Sewing through multiple layers of fabric can put a lot of strain on your sewing machine’s needle, causing it to break. To prevent this, use a good quality needle suitable for the type of fabric you are using and adjust the tension settings on your machine accordingly. It’s also essential to change needles regularly to avoid any potential issues.

Uneven Seams

Uneven seams can often occur when sewing multiple pieces together, especially if you are new to sewing. To resolve this issue, go slowly when stitching and use pins or clips to hold pieces in place before sewing.

The Importance of Sewing a Saree Blouse

Sarees are a traditional Indian garment that has been worn for centuries. It is a long piece of fabric that is draped elegantly around the body. One of the unique features of sarees is its versatility – they can be worn in various styles and for different occasions. However, what truly enhances the beauty of a saree is the blouse paired with it.

A saree blouse is a fitted, cropped top that is worn with a saree to cover the upper body. It not only complements the saree but also adds structure and support to the overall look. A well-crafted blouse can elevate even the most basic saree and make it look elegant and stylish.

Sewing your own saree blouse may seem like a daunting task if you are not familiar with sewing, but it has several benefits that make it worth learning. Firstly, it allows you to customize your blouse according to your body type and personal style. You can choose the type of neckline, sleeve length, and design elements that flatter your figure and reflect your personality.

Moreover, sewing your own blouse gives you complete control over the fit and comfort of the garment. Ready-made blouses are often mass-produced, which means they may not fit every body type perfectly. By sewing your own blouse, you can ensure that it fits you like a glove, making you feel confident and comfortable.

Lastly, sewing your own saree blouse can save you a lot of money in the long run. Quality blouses can be quite expensive when bought from boutiques or designer stores. By investing in some basic sewing supplies and skills, you can create beautifully tailored blouses at a fraction of their retail price.

The Tools You Need to Sew A Saree Blouse

Before we dive into how to sew a saree blouse step-by-step, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the tools you will need. Here are some essential sewing supplies that you must have:

1. Fabric – Choose a fabric that is light and breathable, such as cotton, silk, or chiffon. Avoid heavy fabrics like velvet or brocade as they can be difficult to work with.

2. Pattern – Unless you are an experienced seamstress, using a pre-made pattern is crucial for sewing a well-fitted blouse. You can find several saree blouse patterns online or purchase them from fabric stores.

3. Measuring tape – This will help you take accurate measurements of your body and the fabric.

4. Pins – These are used to hold pieces of fabric together before sewing.

5. Sewing machine – While it is possible to hand-sew a saree blouse, using a sewing machine will save you time and effort.

6. Scissors – A good pair of scissors (preferably fabric scissors) are necessary for cutting the fabric accurately.

7. Thread – Choose thread in the same color as your fabric for best results.

8. Needles – You will need both regular needles and sewing machine needles for different parts of the sewing process.

9. Interfacing – This is a stiffening material that can be ironed onto the back of your fabric to give it structure and stability.

10. Embellishments (optional) – If you want to add buttons, zippers, or other decorative elements to your blouse, make sure you have them ready before starting to sew.

Sewing A Saree Blouse Step-by-Step

Now that you have all your tools ready let’s get into how to sew a saree blouse:

1. Take accurate measurements: Start by taking precise measurements of your body such as bust, waist, hip, armhole, sleeve length, etc., using a measuring tape. Refer to your pattern for specific measurements and make any necessary adjustments.

2. Cut the fabric: Using your pattern, cut the fabric according to your measurements. Make sure you leave some seam allowance while cutting.

3. Prepare the pieces: Pin and sew together the various pieces of fabric to create the front, back, sleeves, and any additional design elements such as collars or flares.

4. Stitch the sides: Once you have all your pieces ready, stitch the sides of your blouse together starting from the underarm to the bottom hem. This will form the basic structure of your blouse.

5. Attach sleeves: If you are adding sleeves to your blouse, now is the time to attach them. Match the edges of the sleeve with those on the armhole and sew them together.

6. Sew neckline and hemming: Depending on your pattern, finish off the neckline and hemline by sewing a lining or folding over and stitching in a neat border.

7. Add embellishments (optional): If you want to add buttons or zippers, do so at this stage to avoid damaging already completed parts of your blouse.

8. Iron: Once you have completed all sewing, it is crucial to iron your blouse to give it a crisp finish and set all seams in place.

Tips

Q: What are the tools and materials needed to sew a saree blouse?
A: The tools and materials needed to sew a saree blouse include a sewing machine, fabric, lining fabric, scissors, pins, needle, thread, measuring tape, and buttons or hooks for fastening.

Q: How do I take accurate measurements for the saree blouse?
A: To take accurate measurements for a saree blouse, you will need to measure your bust, waist, hips, shoulder width, sleeve length and armhole. It is best to have someone help you with the measurements for better accuracy.

Q: What type of stitch should I use to sew a saree blouse?
A: The most commonly used stitches for sewing a saree blouse are straight stitch and zigzag stitch. Straight stitch is used for basic seams and edges while zigzag stitch is used for finishing seams and creating stretchable areas.

Q: How do I attach the sleeves to the saree blouse?
A: To attach the sleeves to the saree blouse, start by pinning them in place before sewing. Use a straight stitch or zigzag stitch to attach the sleeves to the armholes. Once done sewing them on both sides, remove the pins carefully.

Q: Can I add embellishments or embroidery to my saree blouse?
A: Yes, you can add embellishments or embroidery to your saree blouse as per your liking. It is best to plan out your design and placement before starting any sewing work on the fabric.

Q: Is it necessary to prewash the fabric before starting on my blouse?
A: It is highly recommended to prewash your fabric before starting on your saree blouse. This will help prevent any shrinking of the fabric after it has been sewn together. Ironing the fabric beforehand also helps in achieving a clean and smooth finish.

In conclusion, learning how to sew a saree blouse can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. It allows you to create a customized and unique piece that fits your body and personal style perfectly. Throughout this guide, we have explored the step-by-step process of sewing a saree blouse, from selecting the right fabric and pattern to stitching and finishing techniques.

One of the essential elements when sewing a saree blouse is proper measurements. Taking accurate measurements is crucial in ensuring a well-fitted and comfortable garment. Additionally, choosing the right fabric is crucial as it can greatly impact the overall look and feel of the blouse.

We have also discussed various stitching techniques such as backstitching, zigzag stitch, and French seam, which are useful for creating neat and durable finishes. These techniques are essential for beginners to learn as they lay the foundation for more complex sewing projects in the future.

Furthermore, we have mentioned the importance of using proper tools and equipment when sewing a saree blouse. Investing in good quality scissors, pins, needles, and a sewing machine can make the process more efficient and produce better results.

Aside from technical skills, patience and practice are also vital when learning how to sew a saree blouse. Sewing requires time and dedication to master, but with consistent effort

Author Profile

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Jill Nammar
My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.