I’ve been pattern testing again for some friends, so the next few days are going to highlight those creations. I’ll start the week out with the first dress I finished: Miss Lily for Samantha of The Handmade Dress.
I previously have tested for Sam, so I sort of knew what to expect. And I was not disappointed. She aims to design patterns that can be finished during a nap time, and I think this one will come pretty close.* It’s a really sweet bubble dress with peasant-style bodice and sleeves.
Miss L had picked out this fabric from Joann’s from the newest juvenile apparel section fabrics. The vivid pink offsest the red cherries and strawberries nicely, so I agreed to use it when she asked if I’d make the Miss Lily from it. I think it’s a great spring/summer fabric, so I suspect she’ll get a lot of wear from it in the coming months.
I love how quickly the dress came together and the bubble skirt is a cinch to sew. I think I’ll make the skirt of the next one a little bit longer so Liesl has some growing room, but the fit otherwise is spot on.
The pattern directions call for using a ribbon as the sash but I decided to sew one out of coordinating polka dot fabric. I love how the finished garment looks and wish we could wear it now — but of course the temperature dropped 30 degrees again so we’re back in coats and sweaters. LOL!
I think the dress could be as casual or as dressy as you want to make it. I’m itching to try it with some pretty eyelet or embroidered cotton and a sweet satin ribbon!
*It takes me about three times as long to sew a garment when I pattern test because I’m constantly making notes and checking that I’m following the pattern exactly as it’s written, instead of winging it.
16 March, 6:36 am
Oh that dress is just divine! I saw the original post from Samantha over on her blog too and remember jumping for joy at the possibility too. I love the fabric you chose!
Ylanas last blog post..First time for everything!
16 March, 8:09 am
Miss L. made an excellent choice with the fabric. The colors are delightful and offset her skin beautifully. What happens when you no longer have a model for the clothes? Oh, I guess you can grow another. Just kiddling!
But a question about the pattern, will the bubble skirt stay bubbly when it has been in the washer and dryer?
Pats last blog post..Clara and The Devils
16 March, 9:07 am
Absolutely darling!!! Lucky little girl.
Nancy McCarrolls last blog post..Try Decoupage with Wood Picture Frames
16 March, 9:33 am
Very cute fabric she picked. I like that you only used one contrasting detail, the polka dotted trim, it really lets the bubble skirt show off!
Cindys last blog post..Snazzy aluminum tissue box cover
16 March, 9:37 am
Oh! I had never heard of this blog/pattern designer until this weekend. I love her dresses, especially this one. I can’t wait to have it!
Amandas last blog post..St. Pat’s Stuff
16 March, 9:49 am
So cute! I just left The Handmade Dress and Sam is having a 25% off sale on all her patterns. I may just have to run over there and get this one. You did a nice job!
16 March, 9:54 am
Just Beautiful and the fabric is terrific! Love it!
16 March, 1:42 pm
Oh My Gosh! This is just delightful! Way, way, way more appealing than the dress they’ve posted on their site. I’m way more inclined to buy the pattern by looking at your dress than theirs. Yes, make her at least 2 more!
Lilias last blog post..Birdie Bag
16 March, 3:21 pm
How adorable!!! Love it!
Lisa thedomesticdivas last blog post..You’re Taking It All Too Hard
16 March, 4:14 pm
I am loving it! It is such a cute flattering style as well…
sadiras last blog post..Full Fun Weekend…
16 March, 7:20 pm
That is a beautiful dress! I love the look of the skirt part, and your dd’s fabric choice is great!
16 March, 8:14 pm
very cute, it looks perfect on Miss. L.
Domestic Extraordinaires last blog post..Haiku Friday-Cherishing life with co-pays
16 March, 10:09 pm
Can I jump in again? I am really not a very accomplished garment sewer, but I want to make my 4 year old some dresses for this summer. Can you suggest a very simple pattern(s) to start with that won’t leave me swearing and throwing my seam ripper?
Amandas last blog post..St. Pat’s Stuff
17 March, 12:56 pm
Cute fabric. Your daughter has a great eye for fashion! Love the bubble dress. I want to make one for my niece!
Tiff@Three Peass last blog post..The Two Year Old Strikes Again!!!
20 March, 10:12 pm
Just looked at all the pattern testing you’ve been doing and I’m loving all of the beautiful designs… And your model is getting more beautiful by the day, and I just may have to try my hand at dressmaking. And– xoxox.
Jessicas last blog post..Hopeful Hannah – An Owl Sitter
22 March, 6:03 pm
Thank you for doing this! I’m a huge fan of her other patterns, and am really excited to try this one! It looks beautiful!
24 March, 10:09 am
New rule at the Octamom house…6 of 8 does not need to be reading your blog over my shoulder because she is quite certain that she and Miss Thang should be great friends and should have matching dresses….
Blessings~
Octamoms last blog post..Photographic Memory