Today we wanted to share with you a cropped version of the Bromo shirt. This is a very simple hack but really offers a great addition to your wardrobe. Here the simple steps we took to make this version.

1. Determine the length of the cropped shite you would like. We took 12 inches from the front and 17 inches of the the back.

2. When you have decided on your chosen length, take this off the pattern pieces - don't throw these away as you can stick them back on for your next Bromo shirt make.

3. Determine the length of slit you would like on the side - on ours we went for 3 inches.

4. Follow the instructions as in the patterns

Here are some styling ideas for the cropped Bromo shirt:

- you could leave it unbuttoned and use it as a shacket when out in the evenings

- roll up the sleeves for a more casual look

- you could as a pleat to the centre back for a more structured flare at the back

- adding in a collar pin at the top would look fantastic

There are endless possibilities with the Bromo and we cant wait to see your makes.

I know some of you will see the word Couture and it will send shivers down your spines. Every dressmaker has had that at some point but its nothing to fear. Once you embrace some Couture approaches, you will realise the benefits it brings to your sewing.

Here at PH7 Patterns we are passionate about ensuring that each garment reaches its maximum potential. That could be by refashioning an existing make or using techniques such as Couture to ensure your garment lasts a lifetime.

Below are some Couture approaches that you could consider using in your next garment.

Seams

In Couture garments most seam allowances are 1 inch. To the onlooker, this may seem wasteful but the reason for this is to allow the garment to be adjusted over time as the wearers body changes. This is a great tip to add additional seam allowance and will allow you the flexibility the adjustments need and to keep the integrity of the garment.

Also, on the seams, Hong Kong binding is used to finish the seams. This helps in preserving the fabric as much as possible. The other reason this technique is used so much in Couture is that the inside of the garment is approached like the outside and the finish and look of this is important. If you have never tried this technique, give it a go! Also, this month we will release a tutorial to help you.

Underlining

Underlining is a key part of Couture garments and really helps in keeping structure and shape over time and with wear. This is particularly useful in jackets where structure is integral to the garment. Organza is a great choice for this and works really well. Definitely test the organza against your chosen fabric and lining and make sure it helps in giving you the structure and flow that you are looking for.

We will be focussing on couture techniques throughout September and sharing videos and tips throughout our social media so be sure to follow us to help you on your Couture journey.

Following on from our recent blog post on adding bias binding to the inside of the Litmus Jacket we know some of you will have small pieces lying around and wondering what to do with them. One thing we love to do here at PH7 Patterns is to use bias binding for a shirt placket to add some personalisation to the Bromo Shirt and it's also a great way to reduce waste.

For those of you who don't want the hassle of adding a placket it's a great alternative that adds real impact, particularly if you choose a fun or contrasting bias binding.

We have made a tutorial video to help you get started and we really look forward to seeing how you incorporate bias binding into your Bromo shirt creations.