Welcome to the Dara sewalong! In this first lesson, Erica will introduce you to our sewalongs and give you some helpful tips. And in the next lesson, she’ll show you how to pick a size and prep your pattern and fabric.

If you’re feeling confident about getting started, you can go ahead and skip to lesson 3 and you’ll learn some helpful fitting techniques for the pattern.

Here is everything you need to know about the Dara blouse before you start sewing!

Dara is a chemise-style blouse with a romantic, voluminous fit. The dreamy shape comes from a gathered neckline and raglan sleeves, both finished with bias tape.

Version 1 features decorative lace insertions so you can play with texture.

Version 2 omits the lace, leaving a blank canvas for beautiful fabrics.

Fabric recommendations: Look for lightweight or medium-weight woven fabrics such as cotton lawn, cotton gauze, voile, chambray, swiss dot, rayon challis, linen, rayon crepe, and silk.

The sleeves have a lot of volume, so pay attention to your fabric’s drape and body. Fabrics with a crisper body and less drape will create a more voluminous effect. Fabrics with more drape will billow at the sleeves.

Seamwork members, take advantage of your member deals this month! You can save up to 20% off your order here.