A Pattern Hidden in Plain Sight

Oh my! I cannot believe I almost missed this one! Have you been so focused on one pattern element that you completely ignore another? That was me with Simplicity 1008.

 

I bought this pattern earlier this year for the tulip hem dress and recently considered the maxi dress for the Renaissance Festival. It wasn't until last week when I was putting the pattern away did the cape catch my attention. How could I have missed this? I love the silhouette of this cape and the potential for a reversible option. I been looking for a pattern to showcase more of my Ankara Dutch Wax fabric and thought this would be a good match.

  

          

                     

 

 The reverse side is nice too!

      

Here is a quick review of the pattern.

Pattern Description: 

This medieval fantasy costume is designed for travel and adventure. Pattern includes floor length gown, high low day dress and close fitting knee length cape with hood. 

Pattern Sizing:

I made the size 10

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

It looks like the line drawings, but I think the cover photo gives the illusion of pleats or gathers.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

The instructions were easy to follow, but I did not use them. I made this reversible, so I made two complete capes and stitched those right sides together leaving an opening for turning. I then flipped it through the opening and top stitched the entire edge. For the neck closure, I made two covered button and sewed them shanks together on one side. For the other side, I attached a cord loop.

Making covered buttons

Buttons attached back to back 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I bought this for the dresses, but the cape is underrated.

Fabric Used:

Ankara Dutch Wax for side A and a green linen look for side B. 

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

I have recently made too many cold weather pieces for someone who lives in Texas! I will not likely make this cape again. But I would recommend it.

Conclusion: 

This one should not be in the costume section or it will be overlooked. It was fast to sew and the shaping is fun and interesting. The shape makes it a good candidate for reversibility because the other side is not glaring when worn.

I have vowed to use the Ankara fabric in my stash before allowing myself more. I am pretty happy with this make and love my use of the fabric. Now I am free to get more ;-p

Happy Sewing,

Bianca