If you’ve got an afternoon and a couple of yards of fabric, you can create a pretty peasant blouse based on your measurements. This blouse has a drawstring neckline with a faced front placket. We show it with full, long sleeves, but you can make the sleeves any length you prefer.

Take your measurements

Begin by measuring your bust and hips; record the larger of these two measurements. Then measure from your neck to the desired finished length. Next, measure from your neck over your shoulder to the desired finished sleeve length. Finally, measure the circumference of the fullest part of your upper arm. These numbers are the basis for the pattern.

Draft the peasant blouse patterns

This blouse calls for two patterns: one for the front and back, and another for the sleeves. Both are rectangles.

Front/back

Make this the length you measured, plus 2 inches for a hem and a neckline casing. The width is half the larger of your bust or hip measurement, plus a minimum of 5 inches of ease, and one inch for seam allowances. If your fabric is light, drapey, or sheer, you can double the width for a full, floaty blouse. If the fabric is stiff or heavy, keep the ease minimal.

Sleeve

Make this the length you measure, plus 2 inches for a neckline casing and either a hem or casing at the wrist. The width is the arm circumference plus at least 5 inches of ease. You may want to add the same proportion of ease as for the body, but if you prefer a fuller or narrow sleeve, add more or less. Add 1 inch for seam allowances.