Tuesday, September 20, 2016

If I Sew for Fall Will That Usher It In?

It is so hot it feels like the height of Summer. The official start of Fall is in a few days and I am hoping  the climate gets the news! Fall is my favorite season to enjoy and for sewing projects. I love the cozy pieces, fun fabrics and layers.  

                               


At a recent pattern sale, I picked up Butterick 6388 and was waiting for a change in the weather to get sewing. The change has not come, but I could wait no longer.
                 Image result for butterick 6388
After much deliberation, I decided to use retro double knits from my stash. I made a black/brow version first. After getting rave reviews from my family, I made another in a cream knit of a slightly lighter weight. 




The seam lines, multiple pattern pieces, and many marks to transfer imply a level of difficulty that may be off putting, but need not be. This pattern came together very fast and with great ease. If you make it, be sure to do your stay stitching and carefully clip your curves. This will make the tricky parts go smoothly.
                            



I  made the size Medium based on my measurements.  When I pinned it to my dress form, I found the bodice a bit loose. I stitched the arm seams at 1 inch and graded back to 5/8 at the hips. I am on the fence about the fit now that I have seen the photos. It feels good, but is that too much ease?



If you have been here before, you know I have a thing for a good collar! I love the lapped collar here; it is what drew me to this pattern. The print fabric was firm enough to hold it up with no problem. I should have probably used a lightweight knit interfacing on the cream one as it falls a bit in back.


I knew going in, that the seam details of this dress would probably be lost in this print fabric choice. Luck thing I like the print, so I don't mind.



They are clearly more visible on the plain canvas of the cream knit fabric.



I usually prefer side seam pockets as a rule. I find I can put more in them without the changing the look and flow of the item. These will keep my hands warm, but they will not hold much. Additionally, a pet peeve of mine is seeing the outline of pockets against my skin in light colored garments. To avoid this problem, I used fabric in a brown that matches my skin tone.This color choice camouflages the pockets without distracting from the look of the dress front.

This is the pocket outline if I used white. Above it, is the indistinguishable outline of the brown pocket.


 In addition to this change, I also added more top stitching than the pattern suggested. I carried it down the angled seam






I am 5’8” and like my legs, (it only took a few decades). This is “just” the right length for me. It is borderline too short. If you are uncertain of the length, cut it longer and make a deeper hem. 

I am pleased with these dresses. I think they will transition well into Fall and Winter with some added tights and a coat. The vest and the shirt patterns will be good options as well. If this is on your list, I say grab it and make it.

Happy Sewing,
Bianca

12 comments:

  1. Both dresses turned out great! Pockets showing in white is a pet peeve of mine too. What a great idea to make the pocket bags your skin tone color - perfect!

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    1. Thanks Tomasa!It just came to me and I had a "duh!" moment! I will be doing this from now on.

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  2. So, so, so cute Bianca! I purchased this pattern for the dress as well and can't wait to make it up!

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  3. Cute and cute! I keep missing the Butterick sales, and I want this pattern! Great makes and you look fabulous!

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    1. Thanks Linda! I think Joann's has a sale going now! Don't miss this one.

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  4. Really cute! And looks super comfortable! I have the pattern and will promptly sew it up. I've done that pocket thing, as well, in the past.

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    1. How did I not know about this pocket thing! It is the best new discovery for me! :) Can't wait to see yours.

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  5. the dresses both look great and I really like your glasses. I am on the hunt for new frames and yours are the ones I want.

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    1. Thanks Pete! The frames are the Tortoiseshell Cat-Eye Sunglasses (4411525) from Zenni Optical online. They are great! I added transitional lens for outdoor protection, I regret not getting the upgraded anti-smudge, less cleaning coating. Hope you like them.

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  6. These are gorgeous dresses and have definitely given me ideas about how I want to make my own. Wonderful work!

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  7. I have this pattern, thanks for the nudge to get going.

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