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I’ve made this simple, flowy DIY blouse in my wardrobe so many times. I like it because it has a flattering scoop neck with a keyhole detail.
This is a favorite of mine because of this front closure. And it’s such a versatile piece, and an easy one to wear and make.
I’ll tell you more about the materials I used, my process, and share my personal photos. You might make one for yourself.
New Look N6891 Blouse Pattern
Although New Look N6891 sewing pattern came out years ago, I still see it online. It’s labeled easy to sew, and I’ve made many versions of it.
It has a nice loose fit and is perfect for warmer weather.
The scoop neck has a keyhole closure. You can use a loop, and on mine, the split-neck opening doesn’t really show.
There are front closure and sleeve variations to choose from. I prefer short-sleeved blouses without the flutter.
My top only had seven pattern pieces to sew. That’s why it’d be a great sewing pattern for advanced beginners.
Materials
Here’s everything I used to make this top. Luckily, I have a big stash of breezy fabrics.
Fabric
This pattern is good for lightweight fabrics like rayon and cotton. But you might want to stick to cotton if you’re a beginner.
I love this cotton voile with the nice design from Mood Fabrics. In the hot sun, the air flows right through it.
Cotton woven fabric will be easier to work with, and it stays in place. Silky fabrics, like rayon, will slip and slide!
I have also made this top in lightweight Tencel and other silky fabrics. Rayon is my favorite fabric for this pattern because it drapes so nicely.
Some other suggested fabrics are handkerchief linen, gauze, charmeuse, and challis.
Notions
The notions I used are a button and 3/8-inch (0.375-inch) knit elastic. This pattern does not call for elastic, but I made a sleeve variation with it.
I’ve also used a hook and eye and a small snap for versions I’ve made. These were used for the front split-neck closure instead of the button.
Needle
Make sure you choose the correct sewing needle for the fabric you pick. I used a size 60 to 75 universal needle for lightweight fabrics.
Thread
In my sewing machine, I used matching Gutermann universal thread made of polyester.
Sometimes when I sew light fabrics, I use a lightweight thread. However, this weight worked just fine.
I serged the seams using Maxi-Lock serger spun thread. It’s made of 100% polyester.
Sewing My Blouse
Since this sewing pattern only had a few pieces, it was simple to make. I’ve made it so many times, I don’t need the directions anymore.
Prepping
When I made my very first blouse, I considered sizing down. Sometimes the ease on these commercial patterns is generous.
I made a mockup one size down, and it was tight around the bust. Plus, it was difficult getting my arms through this thing!
So I went with my usual size.
The pattern had enough ease so that I didn’t need to do a bust adjustment. You might need to if your bust is larger.
I used muslin for my mockup, and it worked well. It’s lightweight and has a bit of drape, which is a similar fabric you’ll want to use to make this blouse.
Construction
As I mentioned, there aren’t many pattern pieces for this blouse. It’s simple in that there aren’t any darts, and it pulls over the head.
So, that means it’s going to be more loose-fitting. There is a center front seam and center back seam.
Sewing the binding for the neckline might trip people up. I made my own using my bias tape maker.
This method worked better. Making the binding with rayon fabric was more involved. After cutting, I noticed it was thinner than it was supposed to be.
But I kept working with it. Next time, I’ll find a better solution and stabilize the fabric. Or not use such flowy fabric.
Adjustments
The blouse itself is longer, so I shortened the hem by three inches. I wear it with skirts and high-waisted pants, so I don’t need it that long.
I’ve made this pattern with a hook-and-eye closure, button, and snap. I have also made the variation with ties. They all look just as nice.
My pink top is the variation using lightweight linen fabric mixed with rayon. I made a casing around the sleeve to add elastic.
The elastic around the sleeves keeps the fabric from floating around so much. And I added this after wearing it a couple times because I found the sleeves bothersome.
There is a variation to add ties around the sleeves, but I like the elastic too. If you use elastic, you’ll need to add length to the sleeve to make a casing.
Project Notes
There are many similar sewing patterns to this one on the market. And I have a few in my stash.
Once you get the fit down, the options are endless. You can keep using the same ones like I do.
When fitting, make sure it’s comfortable. Put it over your head and see if you can get it on and off easily. Otherwise, you may want to size up.
With its very few pieces, this top doesn’t take very long to make. Sometimes I like fast projects.
On a good day, it takes less than two hours to finish. I consider that a rather quick sew!
Final Thoughts
This is a perfect classic, breezy top for hot weather! I wore it while visiting botanical gardens in Hawaii.
The neckline is flattering, and I like the simple lines. I’m due to make another one soon!
More Sewing Projects
I have more related posts on my blog. You might want to check them out.
- I wore this top with my ruffle waist shorts, and I’ll show you the hack.
- What about a button-up shirt with princess seams?
- A top like this would look nice with a flat front elastic back skirt.
I’d love to hear what you’ve got going on in your sewing room!
Originally published: September 7, 2024
