Do you have questions about our latest pattern, the Cameron Button Up? We'll we've got answers! Read on to learn more about some of the most common questions we get about Cameron.
Don't forget you can grab the Cameron Button Up on sale this week for 20% off, no coupon code required!
What kinds of fabrics work best for Cameron?
Cameron is one of our more versatile patterns when it comes to fabric! The obvious option is lightweight cotton, and even quilting cotton can be used for a fun, novelty print option. If this is your first time sewing a button up shirt, lightweight cotton is the best option. Look for ‘cotton lawn’ or ‘cotton shirting’ when shopping.
Cameron also works really well in linen, and a cotton/linen blend is a great option. If you are looking for something a little more cozy, try it in flannel! There are also drapey fabrics like a rayon/viscose challis or Tencel twill. Just know that the details can be tricky to sew in these fabrics. We recommend interfacing the whole sleeve placket if using a lightweight, drapey fabric and taking your time to cut out the pieces accurately.
Can I make a Cameron 'Shacket'?
If you are looking to make a Cameron that is more like a jacket than a shirt, you can try sewing it in a medium weight fabric like wool coating, cotton twill, canvas, denim, or corduroy. Keep in mind that small details like the sleeve plackets and collar stand become harder to sew with thicker fabrics. We did sew a Cameron using a 9 oz wool coating (blog post coming soon) and we were able to do it, but it was a challenge. A 5-7 oz fabric would be easier to sew and still give you that ‘shacket’ look.
Which side of the shirt are the buttons on?
Great question—it's totally up to you! We've included information to help you choose which side you want to put them on, and anywhere it comes up, we've included instructions for both options.
Do I need to do an FBA?
Cameron fits cups sizes A-DD well without any adjustments thanks to it's relaxed fit and generous ease. Beyond a DD cup, you may want to:
- Size up! Go for an oversized look and get more room in the chest area, or
- Add a chest dart by doing an FBA. See our blog post tutorial here.
Do you have any tips for sizing down for a closer fit?
You can definitely size down to get a slimmer fit, BUT you don't want to end up with too-tight shoulders. Consult the finished measurements chart to make sure you still have wearing ease at the size you want to make, and use the "upper back width" measurement to determine the shoulder fit. And don't forget to make a muslin! It's a great opportunity to practice tricky details like the plackets and collar, AND you will nail the fit before sewing your precious fabric.
If you're looking for a slimmer fit, you could also consider eliminating the back pleat and adding back darts instead for more shaping. Threads has a great article on how to do that here.
Can I make Cameron if I've never sewn a placket before? I'm scared!
I totally get that! It's one of the trickiest things in sewing but trust me, you CAN do it! We've got 6 (SIX!) pages of instructions for the placket alone. We've got you. ❤️
Our biggest piece of advice? Make a "practice placket!" It only takes a small fabric scrap and you'll feel much more confident after you try it once.
Seriously though. We went into extreme detail with this pattern. No step left un-illustrated!
How does this pattern rate in terms of complexity/difficultly?
This is a very straightforward take on a button up. It does not have any trendy bells and whistles, but it does have classic features like a collar and collar stand, button front, and sleeve plackets. I think with our instructions, you will have no trouble sewing this one!
How do I lengthen or shorten the pattern?
Not to worry! We've included instructions for lengthening and shortening Cameron, as well as pattern lines to make this step a cinch.
What type of seam finish does the pattern use?
There are only two exposed seams in this pattern, the side/arm seam and the armscye (sleeve attachment) seam. We provide 4 seam finishing methods for these seams, including flat felled seams! Stay tuned because we have blog post coming your way with instructions for for how to sew flat felled seams.
What size Cameron are Sam and Parnian wearing in the photoshoot?
Sam is wearing a size 24 graded down to a 20 hip, and Parnian is wearing a size 16 graded to a size 14 at the hip. You can find all of the sample details (including fabrics used) in the product listing!
How would I make a bicep adjustment?
We've included a finished bicep adjustment for Cameron on the finished measurement chart so you can identify ahead of time if you need to make this adjustment. Click here for our instructions on doing a full bicep adjustment!
Do you have any tips on lengthening it to make a shirt dress?
I can't wait to make a shirt dress version! You can simply add length to the front and back to lengthen it and have a straight shirt dress OR you can add a bit of flare to the side seam to create more volume at the hip and hem of the dress. If your hip measurement puts you in a higher size than your chest and waist, this will give you a better fit.
What types of hacks would work for Cameron?
There are SO many hack possibilities for Cameron, like lengthening it into a dress, or leaving off the collar piece and sewing only the collar stand. You can try swapping out the sleeve styles, or mixing and matching pieces with some of our patterns (like our Gilbert/Reynolds dress hack). We are already buzzing with ideas, and you know we'll be sharing more on our blog in the months ahead. 😊
Thanks for reading along and checking out the Cameron Button Up! Did we miss anything? Leave us a comment or shoot us an email at support@helensclosetpatterns.com.
