Mastering the Art of Saree Blouse: A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Sew Your Own!

AvatarByJill Nammar Sewing

Sewing your own saree blouse can seem daunting, but with some basic knowledge and a few sewing skills, you can create a beautiful garment that perfectly complements your saree. Whether you’re a beginner in the world of sewing or just looking to expand your wardrobe, learning how to sew a saree blouse is a valuable skill that will save you time and money in the long run. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of making your very own custom-fitted and stylish saree blouse. Get ready to unleash your creativity and elevate your traditional attire with our easy-to-follow guide on how to sew a saree blouse.

Choosing the Right Fabric for your Saree Blouse

When it comes to sewing a saree blouse, choosing the right fabric is crucial. The fabric you select will determine the overall look and feel of your blouse. It will also affect how well it fits and how comfortable it is to wear. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting the fabric for your saree blouse.

1. Type of Saree

The type of saree you plan to wear with your blouse should play a major role in your choice of fabric. A heavy silk saree will require a sturdier, thicker fabric such as silk or brocade to match its grandeur. On the other hand, a lightweight cotton or georgette saree will look best with a lighter and more breathable fabric like cotton or chiffon.

2. Body Type

Your body type also plays an important role in determining the best fabric for your saree blouse. If you have a curvy figure, opt for fabrics like chiffon or georgette that drape well and accentuate your curves. For slimmer body types, stiff fabrics like silk or organza can add volume and structure to the blouse.

3. Occasion

The event or occasion at which you plan to wear your saree should also be considered when choosing the fabric for your blouse. For formal events like weddings or parties, opt for rich fabrics like silk, velvet, or brocade that add an element of grandeur. For more casual events like day-to-day wear or office wear, opt for lightweight and comfortable fabrics like cotton or linen.

4. Climate

The climate in which you live should also influence your choice of fabric for your saree blouse. If you live in a hot and humid climate, choose lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton or chiffon. If you live in a colder climate, you may opt for thicker and warmer fabrics like wool or silk.

5. Embellishments

If you plan on adding any embellishments to your saree blouse, it is important to choose the right fabric for them. Heavy embellishments like beads, sequins, or embroidery will require a sturdier fabric like silk or brocade to hold the weight and maintain its structure. Lighter embellishments like lace or ribbon can be added to more delicate fabrics like chiffon or georgette.

6. Maintenance

Consider how much time and effort you are willing to put into maintaining your saree blouse when choosing the fabric. Some fabrics require special care, such as dry cleaning, while others can be machine washed at home. Choose a fabric that fits into your lifestyle and maintenance routine.

Types of Fabric suitable for Saree Blouses

Now that you know what factors to consider when selecting the fabric for your saree blouse let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular fabrics used for sewing these blouses.

1. Silk

Silk is the most traditional and timeless fabric used for saree blouses. It has a luxurious shine and drape that adds elegance to any saree ensemble. Silk blouses often come in rich colors and can be adorned with intricate embroidery or embellishments.

2. Cotton

Cotton is a versatile and comfortable fabric that is suitable for all body types and occasions. It comes in various textures such as handloom, linen, and voile, which can add different dimensions to your blouse design. Cotton also allows your skin to breathe making it a great choice for warmer climates.

3. Chiffon

Chiffon is light, soft and airy making it perfect for creating flowy and delicate saree blouses. It is often used for more dressy occasions as it adds an element of femininity and grace to any saree outfit. Chiffon blouses can also be easily layered with other fabrics like lace or net to create a more intricate design.

4. Georgette

Georgette is a lightweight and sheer fabric that offers a dreamy and ethereal look to saree blouses. It drapes beautifully and moves with the body, creating a flattering silhouette. Georgette blouses can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion and can also be used as an overlay for other fabrics.

5. Brocade

Brocade is a luxurious fabric with raised patterns woven into it, often featuring metallic threads for added shine. It is commonly used for special occasions such as weddings or formal gatherings, as it adds a regal touch to any blouse design.

Factors to Consider when Cutting and Sewing your Saree Blouse

Once you have selected the perfect fabric for your saree blouse, it’s time to start cutting and sewing it into your desired design. Here are some key factors to consider when working on your blouse.

1. Pattern

When it comes to traditional Indian attire, nothing can beat the elegance and beauty of a saree. And pairing the perfect saree with a well-fitted and well-designed blouse can enhance your overall look and make heads turn. But often times, purchasing a pre-made saree blouse may not provide the perfect fit or design that you desire. This is where knowing how to sew your own saree blouse can come in handy. Not only does this give you the freedom to choose your desired fabric, design, and fit, but it also allows you to personalize your outfit according to your unique taste. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through all the steps on how to sew a beautiful and well-fitted saree blouse from scratch.

Gathering Supplies

The first step in sewing a saree blouse is to gather all the necessary supplies. This includes fabric (preferably cotton or silk), matching thread, lining material (if needed), measuring tape, scissors, pins, sewing machine (or needle if hand-sewing), chalk or fabric pen for marking, buttons or hooks for closure and any decorative materials like lace or embroidery thread (optional). It is important to use good quality supplies as they will ensure a better finish for your blouse.

Taking Accurate Measurements

The key to making a perfectly fitting saree blouse is taking accurate measurements of your bust, waist and armhole. Start by measuring your bust by wrapping the tape measure around the fullest part of it. Next, measure your waist by tying the tape around naturally where it narrows in. Finally, measure your armhole by wrapping the tape around one of them at its highest point near the shoulder joint. These measurements will help you determine the size of each panel needed for the front and back of your blouse.

Preparing Your Fabric

Once you have your measurements, it is time to prepare your fabric. The standard fabric width available in the market is 45 inches, which may not be enough for a full blouse length. So you may need to join two pieces of fabric together horizontally. Start by folding the fabric along the grainline (parallel to selvage edge), then cut it according to your blouse measurements. Similarly, cut out a piece for the lining if needed.

Pattern Making

To make a saree blouse pattern, trace out half of your blouse front and back on paper using your measurements as a guide. You can also use an old blouse as a reference if you have one. Add seam allowance on all sides (around 1 inch) while drawing the patterns. Then place each pattern on your folded fabric and cut along the lines.

Stitching Techniques

Now that you have all parts of your blouse ready, it’s time to start sewing them together. Start by sewing the front and back panels together at the shoulders and sides, leaving around 1 inch for seam allowance. Then sew on the lining material to the inside of your blouse following the same steps.

Next, take two rectangular shaped fabric pieces and hem them on all four sides. These are going to be the two long panels of cloth that will form the center back pleats of your blouse. To create pleats, take both these panels and fold them into multiple folds towards each other until they become equal in width with the back panel of your blouse. Secure these pleats in place with pins and sew them onto the back panel.

For creating sleeves, take another rectangular piece of fabric and fold it into half lengthwise with wrong side facing each other. Sew along its open edges leaving space for armhole at one end (around 6-7 inches). Repeat this step for another sleeve as well.

Closure and Finishing Touches

Once your blouse is stitched together, it’s time to add a closure to it. You can either use buttons or hooks and loops for this purpose. Sew on the closures at the back of your blouse, making sure they are evenly spaced out. Finally, add any decorative elements like lace, embroidery or tassels to give your blouse a unique touch.

In conclusion, sewing a saree blouse may seem like a daunting task at first but with proper measurements and techniques, you can easily create a beautifully fitted and designed blouse that complements your saree perfectly. Remember to take your time and pay attention to details while sewing to achieve the best results. With practice and experimentation, you can even create different styles and variations of saree blouses that reflect your personal style. So go ahead and unleash your creativity by making your own gorgeous saree blouses!

Q: What materials do I need to sew a saree blouse?
A: To sew a saree blouse, you will need fabric, a measuring tape, scissors, sewing machine or needle and thread, buttons or hooks, and any decorative items you would like to add.

Q: Can I use any type of fabric to make a saree blouse?
A: Yes, you can use almost any type of fabric such as cotton, silk, chiffon, or even synthetic materials. It is best to choose a lightweight fabric that drapes nicely for a saree blouse.

Q: How do I take measurements for a saree blouse?
A: To take measurements for a saree blouse, measure your bust, waist and shoulder width. You will also need to take measurements for the length of the blouse and sleeves.

Q: Do I need advanced sewing skills to make a saree blouse?
A: It depends on the design you choose. Some designs may require advanced sewing skills such as adding zippers or intricate embroidery. However, there are many simple designs that can be easily sewn by beginners.

Q: Can I use a sewing machine to make a saree blouse?
A: Yes, using a sewing machine can make the process quicker and more precise. However, if you do not have access to one or are more comfortable hand-sewing, you can still make a beautiful saree blouse.

Q: Are there tutorials or patterns available online to help me sew a saree blouse?
A: Yes, there are many online tutorials and patterns available for free or at an affordable cost. You can also find instructional videos on various platforms such as YouTube which may be helpful in guiding you through the process.

In conclusion, learning how to sew a saree blouse is a valuable skill that can open up a world of creativity and self-expression. With the right materials, tools, and techniques, anyone can successfully create their own custom-fitted blouse that perfectly complements their saree. By following the step-by-step instructions outlined in this guide, novice sewers can gain confidence in their abilities while more experienced sewers can refine their skills.

It is essential to remember that sewing is a process that takes time and patience. It may take multiple attempts before achieving the desired result, but perseverance and practice will lead to mastery. Additionally, incorporating unique details such as embroidery, embellishments, or different sleeve styles can add an extra touch of personalization to one’s saree blouse.

Furthermore, knowing how to sew a saree blouse not only allows individuals to create clothing that fits their style and body shape but also enables them to save money by avoiding expensive tailor fees. It also promotes sustainability by reducing waste from fast fashion and mass-produced clothing.

Through this guide, we have covered essential steps such as taking accurate measurements, choosing suitable fabrics and patterns, cutting and stitching techniques, as well as troubleshooting common mistakes. These tips will not only aid in creating a well-fitted blouse but also encourage individuals

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.