McCall 4040 - 1941 Blouse & Shirtwaist Bodice pattern & instructions

McCall 4040 is a blouse pattern from 1941. This is one of my favourite and most-used patterns - I've made at least half a dozen blouses from it, and also adapted it to a shirtwaist bodice which I've used for many playsuits and dresses. I love how the pleats at the waistline release to give soft shaping to the bust.

I've included the original pattern pieces as they come, as well as variations I've developed with a full bust adjustment and a bodice version for which I converted the front shoulder yokes to a shoulder dart (you can also combine the two, to make a bodice with shoulder yokes). 

While this pattern is single-sized as I don't currently have the resources to grade patterns to multiple sizes (this is one of my Patreon community goals!), I've included hints and links to some helpful tutorials to help you size the pattern to fit you. 

The printable pattern at the bottom of the page is available in two print sizes. Choose the tiled template for the print-at-home version (it is laid out to fit on both A4 and US Letter paper - remember to select "100%" or "actual size" in the print preferences, and check the measurement guide to ensure it's sized correctly). You can print the A0 version at a copy shop or through online printing services like netprinter.co.uk.

Edited to add the original pattern envelope and pattern instructions for McCall 4040.

Note: This pattern is just for Patreon subscribers. Please do not share this pattern externally, so I can keep creating exclusive new content just for Patrons!