Spring Into Sewing

We’ve had lots of rainy days this spring. Much like my floral fix last April, (re-read my post Rainy Day Blossoms ) I’ve been perusing my fabrics and decided to do something about my summer attire. I am no longer working full time so my closet has been slowly shifting away from business attire to a little less formal and a little more playful!

I’ve started exploring more ways to personalize my commercial patterns. You know from my post Make It Your Own, I like to mix fabrics, insert features and add accents. This not only personalizes the garment but by learning how to do so I’ve extended the use and value of my pattern…’cuz buying patterns can get expensive!! This week I’m showing you a dress using a delightful pattern called the Washi Dress that actually describes multiple ways to switch up the neckline and sleeves as well as make it a dress or tunic.

I bought the pattern and fabric at my local fabric store (see link to the fabric store and the pattern makers site at bottom). Don’t you love these newspaper prints? I am not showing the steps to make this dress as it is fully based on the pattern so before I go on, here is a pic of the pattern:

The neckline of this dress is unique and calls for attention. I decided to highlight it by bringing the facings to the outside using opposite colors. (I’ll be honest, I thought I was being original by putting the neckline facing to the outside but then I noticed a similar comment in the pattern notes as an option……):

This required a nice hem on the inside neckline which I enhanced with some sweet yellow zig-zag trim from my stash:

The bodice and skirt join with pretty pleats and there are hidden side pockets in the skirt:

There are no zippers or buttons – it is a pull over dress with an elasticized back waistband. I was REALLY nervous about this since I have had bad luck with dresses feeling way too tight after encasing elastic tape…BUT THIS USES ELASTIC THREAD! Never heard if it? Me either but it was super simple to use (sew it like regular thread!) and is incredibly comfy while keeping things snug:

I finished the armhole with a black binding:

I like knowing my skirt hem is pretty on the inside in case it shows so I took the time to finish the hem with a pretty yellow lace hem tape.

Note I have embellished with one gorgeous purple pottery button. This will be a great dress for a Mothers Day brunch, garden touring, museum hopping or enjoying outdoor concerts!!

Next week: a pretty blouse that would be nice for an afternoon at the Symphony or enjoying a wedding shower!

Link to my local fabric store: www.sewinspiredquilts.com

Link to the pattern makers site: www.made-by-rae.com