Have I mentioned that I like making shirts? 😜  This is my fourth Grainline Archer Button Up. I should branch out with another women’s shirt pattern, but I honestly don’t know if I will. This workhorse of a pattern puts me in my comfort zone, in a good way.

And that’s saying a lot, considering how terrified I was to sew my first button-up shirt. This time around, instead of reviewing the pattern, I’m going to tell you what I love most about it. You can check out my other versions for more on construction and sizing.

Let me say: Please forgive the wrinkles in these pics! We took them after an hour in the car and then a leisurely brunch. (If you’re ever in Palos Heights, IL, check out Harvest Room. You won’t regret it.) Without further ado, here’s why the Archer Button Up gets an A+ in my book.

You get two different styles for the price of one.

Sure, lots of patterns come with multiple variations. A mini and a midi skirt. A v-neck and a scoop neck. A tunic and a dress. Options are great, but I want great options. And that’s what Archer’s got: Two equally stylish variations that give the shirt a completely different feel. Make a classic shirt with a pleat at the back yoke, or go girly with the back ruffle.

It’s comfy and polished.

It’s a loose-fitting shirt, but the cut doesn’t look or feel sloppy. I especially like wearing Archer buttoned all the way up—something that I can’t do with certain RTW shirts because it feels like I’m being gently choked.

Grainline’s sew-along and pattern tricks are unparalleled.

I am so much more confident sewing yokes, collars, and buttons thanks to Jen’s straightforward tips. Some of the most helpful:

• A video demonstrating how to attach the yokes burrito-style.
• How to achieve a perfect(ly acceptable) collar.
• An introduction to a button foot. (No, not a buttonhole foot. A foot for sewing your damn buttons on. Amazing!)
• How to draft an alternate Archer pocket. Maybe my fave.
• How to sew sharp corners and points.

I love you, Archer.

Sincerely,
Dani

And now for a barrage of photos of my latest short-sleeved version. My family and I went to Lake Katherine in Palos after my dad’s birthday brunch. It’s a beautiful nature preserve and a great place to walk around, but be prepared to accidentally photobomb some bridesmaids if you go on a Saturday.

Until next time, friends!