Well…this is strange. I seem to have chosen to make a woven pattern after exclusively sewing knits since I picked up sewing. Granted I haven’t been sewing clothes for long, but still. I didn’t think my postpartum body would touch anything that was woven. Alas, I knew I couldn’t hide from a world of fun dresses for long. And I’m loving my first non-knit make so far.
I remember seeing this pattern on Helen’s Closet before and ignoring it. I assumed the shape wouldn’t be flattering on me; that it seemed to be a British thing; and all kinds of other silly reasons not to try it.
However…I participated in the designer’s “Curvy Sewing Survey” and was now keen to support anyone attempting to broaden their size range. No, I do not fall outside of standard size ranges, but I still consider myself to be curvy. Plus, I was pregnant at the time and just as upset about limited options as other sewists were. So when I saw the release with the extended range and a discount, I figured it was time to try. I’m very happy I did.
With few pattern pieces to cut out, this dress is a relatively quick sew. As a new mom, it labored on my sewing table for a couple of weeks, but that has nothing to do with the design.
Bias tape is a necessary part of the dress. As my little one hates the car seat, its really hard to get out of the house these days. Though I had never made my own bias tape, it seemed preferable to do so rather than let my baby scream his head off for a 40-minute round trip to Joann’s. Plus, I figured I had plenty of cute sample scraps to use. In theory, this makes my dress special. When it comes to naptime sewing, though, time is precious. Making my own bias tape was time consuming. It required a small amount of finesse I was unwilling to give. I got it done eventually, but it wasn’t the best and I didn’t enjoy the process.
My pockets are a bit janky.
My binding is just okay.
My hem is uneven in places.
And I love it! I’m soooo not a perfectionist.
