Start of Irish crochet blouse

I saw an Irish crochet blouse on etsy the other day that I really liked but didn't want to buy it (it is worth the 365 dollars I just can't afford that price).  Also a size 0/2 would never fit me.  So I wanted to try and make it.  The above photos are from etsy and not mine.  They are what I am working from.  I have to guess at the gauge and such and a ton of the stitches but I will end up with something that I am happy with.  It does not have to be identical I just want the same feel as this.  But I am thinking I may want a collar on mine or I may want to make a shell that has a collar using heirloom sewing techniques.  you should check out that last link lots of free vintage patterns from around 1900 for woman, children and men.  If you are into heirloom sewing that is a good source of some free patterns.

 

I have some vintage thread (not antique becasue it reads made in U.S.A.) that should do the trick if I have enough if not I will figure that out when I get to that point.   It is always fun to see the old prices on old threads these use to sell for 12 cents a ball.  Not anymore that is for sure.

As you can see I have started to make some of the Irish roses I am using a size .4 hook also known as a size 16 steel crochet hook.