A Sewing Redemption
Choosing the Right Fabric
After the challenging ordeal with my previous attempt at the Jensen Mens Shirt using a treacherous imitation silk (read cheap and very nasty) I decided to give this project another go, this time focusing on quality. Motivated by the lessons learned from my last experience, I chose a high-quality cotton fabric for the remake. The difference was night and day.
The fabric I selected for this new attempt at the Jensen Mens Shirt pattern was a beautiful salmon colour, which immediately set a promising tone for the project. To add a touch of elegance and contrast, I opted for burgundy thread for the topstitching, a decision that significantly enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the shirt. The precision of each stitch was crucial, especially when using a striking contrasting thread.
Mastering Topstitching with a Special Technique
For the topstitching, I employed what I fondly call my “magic foot” on my Juki DX7 sewing machine, which allows me to move the needle up to 3.5mm left or right. This flexibility enables me to use an overlocking presser foot effectively for topstitching (or a proper topstitching presser foot). By running the hem against the guide of the overlocking foot, I can achieve impeccably neat and professional-looking topstitching. This technique not only ensures that the stitches are perfectly aligned but also elevates the overall finish, making the contrasting stitches stand out beautifully against the salmon fabric. If you don’t use a topstitching foot you should really get one. They are a revelation. If you are like me, you might already have one and just not know it.
Sewing with quality cotton was a breath of fresh air compared to the previous fabric. The stability and reliability of the cotton allowed me to focus more on the craftsmanship and less on handling issues. The fabric moved smoothly through the sewing machine, with no threads catching or fabric unraveling. Every seam, hem, and cuff was sewn with confidence, leading to a beautifully constructed garment that looked every bit as good as it felt.
A Successful Outcome
The final outcome was starkly different from my first attempt. This time, the shirt was not only durable but also exuded a sense of style and sophistication. The salmon-coloured cotton, complemented by the rich burgundy topstitching, resulted in a garment that was visually striking and perfectly finished.
This remake has reinforced a valuable sewing lesson: the quality of the materials can truly make or break a project. It has also rekindled my appreciation for the Jensen Mens Shirt pattern by “Wardrobe by me”. It’s a challenging but incredibly rewarding make, especially when paired with the right fabric and topstitching techniques. This shirt has now taken its rightful place in my wardrobe, a testament to the joys and triumphs of sewing.
Reflecting on this experience, I am reminded of the importance of perseverance in the craft of sewing. Each stitch not only represents a part of the garment but also a part of the journey, a journey of learning, improving, and ultimately creating something beautiful.