Anyway, yesterday I did some dressmaking. I want to be good at dressmaking and enjoy the process, but I still find it very stressful and I don't feel very confident. But it's like knitting, you see a cardigan or a dress in the shops and you think I could make that - you've just got to give it a go.
So yesterday was devoted to making the Dottie Angel dress. I was given the pattern for Christmas by Grace. And here is my first attempt.
It's a very simple dress with minimal pattern pieces so it shouldn't take too long to make but there's a lot of attention to neat edgings and seams so it took all morning and afternoon to make. I'm pleased with the result.
The original pattern has pockets, which I omitted.
I would love to make a really colourful version, so I'm on the look out for suitable fabrics.
It's a simple tunic dress with ties to fasten at the back - no zips or buttons - very simple.
My version - because I was practising - is made from a single size bed sheet (£4 from Primark). Now that I've had a trial run, I'll be quicker and more comfortable for the next version (fingers crossed) and I'll use nicer fabric. But this one is nice enough for now.
All I need now is some warmer weather so I can wear the dress.
Very pretty Janet! I was going to say how lovely the fabric was - well, it is still lovely of course, you know what I mean! - I was just surprised that it came from a sheet as I can never find pretty sheets like that! I like your necklace too! xx
ReplyDeleteThank you Amy. Not only is the sheet fabric pretty but it was also cheap, very handy when you're doing a trial run.
DeleteWhat a great idea to use a sheet and it's very pretty fabric too. I'm like you when it comes to sewing I don't have much confidence but I enjoy the process once I get going, I hate the threading of needle it takes me ages! and I'm not much good at sewing a straight seam. I think your dress is lovely. :) xx
ReplyDeleteThank you Linda. It takes me forever to get started, I dread cutting into the fabric for the first time, but, like you, I'm ok once I get going.
DeleteI have this pattern and are yet to attempt it....maybe this winter :)
ReplyDeleteIt's certainly a popular pattern. I saw lots of people at Yarndale last year wearing it.
DeleteJanet, I have that pattern and the fabric to go with it but I fear I am not ready to jump in. My sewing skills are lacking and I am afraid it will look a mess. Yours is wonderful.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Meredith
Thank you Meredith. I hope you find the courage to give it a go one day.
DeleteSo pretty.
ReplyDeleteThank you.
DeleteYou did this last year using a sheet and had very good results! I have some Liberty that I'm scared to cut...I'm off to Primark for a sheet. Your dress looks really pretty.
ReplyDeleteThanks Caz, I would certainly recommend a sheet version before cutting into nice fabric, especially if you're nervous like me.
DeleteWhat a great pattern. I can also imagine it in a thicker fabric as a pinafore dress.
ReplyDeleteThank you Ginny. It would look good as a pinafore with a long sleeved t-shirt underneath I think.
DeleteWhat an impressive make, I can't believe that it is made from a sheet it is such a pretty fabric.
ReplyDeleteThanks Lorraine.
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