shearwater kaftan… take 5?

I’m not exactly sure how many times I’ve made this shirt… quite a few I guess, since I can’t remember. (I guess that shows you how much I like it!) Those I made last year are a bit snug in the chest region, so I made the next size up and it’s just perfect!

I made it out of this lovely hydrangea print from the Cut Out and Keep collection by Heather Moore for Cloud 9 (purchased here). I love this print, and it turns out, so does Max. He’s quite mesmerized when I wear it.

And this time I learned my lesson and followed the pattern exactly as it was written. (And you should, because Toni has really written a great pattern!) My only change was to make the sleeves about an inch longer, and that’s only because I have a thing for long sleeves. I used Anna Maria’s solid voile in froth for the binding around the neck.

I even took the time to add the sleeve pick-ups, and I’m so glad I did. It’s really nice to be able to roll up and button the sleeves. I hate to admit it, but I don’t even know how to make buttonholes on my sewing machine, so I did have to bring this over to Phiona to have her make them for me. I should really learn all the features of my machine, eh? (Though why, when I have great friends who already know how!)

I’m quite tempted to make one more of these kaftans, though I don’t know if it’s because I really need one, or if it’s to avoid making quilt backs. I have quite a few quilts that need backings, and I’m definitely finding everything else to do other than make them. Someone please encourage me to get on that!