A New Dress For Katie...
It has been a long time since I sewed a dress for one of my little girls. I felt inspired this last week and got busy sewing a cute dress for Katie...
I found a pattern for a dress that I remember making for Rebecca when she was three and we lived in Wasco, California. I loved the dress pattern so much that I managed to save all of the pattern pieces. Unfortunately I lost half of the directions. The part of the directions I lost were sewing the dress. I had the directions to make the collar. I did remember how to sew all of the pleats, so I counted it a blessing that I had the part that was the most difficult. For me the collar is the most difficult.
I even remembered how to sew the zipper on. Actually the zipper comes with instructions so I guess I had a little help. I really enjoyed making each part of the dress. For once I wasn't in a hurry to just get it done so that she could wear it. Maybe that means I am growing up. Becoming more mature?
I admit that I tend to rush ahead and sew things together thinking I know what I am doing. When the collar instructions suggested reading the fusible interfacing instructions I decided to listen. I am so glad that I did because I would have ironed it on directly and probably would have had a gooey iron. I found some cute rick-rack instead of ribbon and I decided not to put rosettes on this time. They are a pain to sew on and I had trouble keeping them from falling off.
I couldn't wait to see what Katie looked like so I begged her to get all dressed up for me. The dress is very full and Rebecca said that she reminded her of the way the girls dress on Little House on the Prairie. I think she looks adorable. I am also glad to see that she has room to grow. The pattern size I had was size 3, Katie is usually a size 4. I guess when it comes to making clothing, the sizes are on the big side for her. Now if only that was the case for me....
I used muslin for the collar and flannel for the dress body. As an afterthought I added the lace to the hem. I really think it was a good idea.
As soon as Katie sat on the couch next to Daisy, the cat started to chew on the lace. Somethings are just irresistible! All in all I think this dress was a success. I know it wont stand the test of time, because I am very lazy about overcasting my seams. I don't have a serger either, that would really make a difference. I am going to be working on a vest for Katie next. I hope that you are all having fun making quilting projects or sewing neat things for your families and friends. You all inspire me so much.
