Thursday, July 10, 2014

Sew and Tell with the Mayfair Top and Dress

http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/terras-treasures/terras-treasures-mayfair-top-or-dress-and-spats-e-pattern/

Hi everyone!  July has snuck up on us, but we DO have a Sew & Tell Review for you all.  From now until the end of the month, we will have the Mayfair Top and Dress (and Spats!) from Terra's Treasures on sale for 25% off!  Below are some gorgeous photos and an excellent review for your viewing and reading pleasure.
 

Here are facts about this pattern: 

*  The top/dress comes as one file, and the spats come in a separate file.
*  The top/dress pattern/tutorial is 61 pages long and the spats tutorial is 8 pages long.
*  There are several options provided with the pattern such as either a 3/4 or short sleeve, ruffles or no ruffles, and 2 collar options (or omit it all together).
*  Suggested fabrics include: cotton, cotton types, seersucker, lawn, broadcloth, linen, and you'll need lace for the overlay.  You'll also need a knit stretch fabric with a 30% stretch for the spats.
*  A 3/8" seam allowance is included. 
*  All pages are numbered and labeled with the designer's name and pattern title. 
*  You'll find helpful information such as a Materials List, Size Chart, Yardage Chart, Finished Measurements Chart, Printing Instructions, and a Cutting Measurement Chart right at the beginning.
*  This pattern can be made in sizes 12-18m through a size 14. 
*  There is a color photograph to accompany each step in the tutorial.
*  Pages 1- 19 are the directions and pages 20- 61 are the pattern pieces.
*  Pattern pieces are all labeled with the pattern title and designer.
*  Pattern pieces have all sizes nested together with each size designated a different color. 
*  The pattern pieces and tutorial are professionally done, and you'll be very pleased with the quality of both.
 
Now, let's get to the fun part!  Katy M. was our amazing reviewer this month, and here's what she had to say about the Mayfair Dress...
 
********************
 
Hi everyone.  My name is Katy McKee, and I am reviewing the Mayfair dress by Terra’s Treasures.  I am a web designer by day, an aspiring seamstress by night, and a mother of 3 beautiful children 24/7.  I have a very busy schedule, so I am always looking for easy projects that can be completed quickly, but “cutely.”
 
http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/terras-treasures/terras-treasures-mayfair-top-or-dress-and-spats-e-pattern/
 
I would consider my level of expertise to be intermediate.  I do make my own patterns from time to time (success alludes me at times) and always enjoy reviewing other’s work to learn new and old tricks of the trade.

First – let me start by saying that this dress is absolutely gorgeous, and I was really excited to get started on it.  The bones of the dress remind me of the old Victorian dresses you see in those faded black and white pictures.  Where the little girl is playing with her handmade doll, she has a bow in her hair (which has been rag rolled) and her cheeks are tinted with a touch of pink.  Everywhere a ruffle and a ribbon and no detail is spared. 
 
http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/terras-treasures/terras-treasures-mayfair-top-or-dress-and-spats-e-pattern/

To create that same feeling in my dress, I chose very Victorian colors for my fabrics.  Pink linen for the main body of the dress, gray stretch lace for the top, and green damask velour for the spats and accent flower.  I added pearl buttons to enhance the Victorian flare.
 
 
Upon first glance of this dress, it looks very similar to other PDF patterns I have purchased.  The shape is very simple and the features aren’t anything I haven’t encountered before.  However, Terra’s Treasures’ skill level is on the higher end of intermediate, pretty close to expert.  While the pattern is easy to follow, it is very thorough in the desire to enforce correct technique.  This pattern is created with the longevity of the dress in mind.
 
http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/terras-treasures/terras-treasures-mayfair-top-or-dress-and-spats-e-pattern/
 
The pattern is pretty easy to put together, but there are a lot of pieces.  It took me a total of a gazillion years… just kidding… about an hour to get the pattern pieces matched up and taped.  I always try to use card stock because its stiff edges make it easier to line up, and it doesn’t shift as much.
 
http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/terras-treasures/terras-treasures-mayfair-top-or-dress-and-spats-e-pattern/
 
Following the instructions is easy… if you follow the instructions.  Because I sometimes go rogue and want to try something just a little different, I did improvise in some areas.

Rogue move #1 – I chose NOT to put an under-layer beneath the lace on the back, because it’s summer and I wanted the garment to be as cool and breezy as possible.  Plus, the lack of the under-layer is a little more modern, and my 8-year-old daughter prefers “cool and modern” to “Why did you go shopping in Downton Abbey’s closet?”
 
http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/terras-treasures/terras-treasures-mayfair-top-or-dress-and-spats-e-pattern/

This adjustment proved to be slightly more difficult because I had to make minor adjustments to the instructions as I went along to accommodate the change.  Having done a lot of sewing for my children in the past, I recognized what those changes would need to be without having direction, but a beginner should probably follow the instructions as they are.  It is easy to get lost in this pattern if you don’t follow step-by-step.

Rogue move #2 – I did NOT finish the ends of the ruffle.  My lace was very thin and so I simply folded it in half, long ends together.  This creates more of a “poofy” ruffle and adds some whimsy to the dress.
 
http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/terras-treasures/terras-treasures-mayfair-top-or-dress-and-spats-e-pattern/

Rogue move #3 – I did NOT use a knit fabric for the spats.  I was really excited about these spats because it was my first time making them, but I couldn’t find a knit fabric that I loved.  In hindsight, I should have settled on a knit.  There were numerous adjustments that had to be made to the pattern to accommodate the non-stretch velour.  Do NOT try that at home, folks… unless you are into trial and error.  And in that case, go for it!

http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/terras-treasures/terras-treasures-mayfair-top-or-dress-and-spats-e-pattern/
 
Rogue move #4 – and yes, I strayed that many times!  I hemmed an extra inch on the dress.  My daughter is a size 8 and this dress is a tall “8”, which is great because there is some room to play.  I was able to get the length just right on her.  So if your child is shorter it’s an easy adjustment.  And for all of us girls that know what it’s like to be tall… this pattern is a win for us, FINALLY!

I definitely think the end result is worthy of one of those old black and white photos. We’ve gotten so many compliments on the dress and my daughter loves wearing it… and those spats (I love saying “Spats!”).
 

As far as regrets… I have none.  I probably should have picked a thinner linen for the body of the dress because this dress needs a fabric that is easy to pull / ruffle… but the outcome is just too pretty to complain about.
 
http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/terras-treasures/terras-treasures-mayfair-top-or-dress-and-spats-e-pattern/

Happy sewing everyone!


*******************

 The dress, the girl, the photography... all stunning!  This is definitely a pattern you're going to want to have in your library.  It can easily be dressed up or down just by changing the fabrics to suit the occasion.  With the extensive size range, you'll be using this pattern over and over again throughout the years.  And don't be surprised if strangers stop you on the street to ask if you'll make their little ones a replica ;)   

Now be sure you head over to the website and get your copy for 25% off during July!  We'd love to see any version of this dress you've made.  You can share photos over in our Facebook Group.

And don't forget to pin this review so others can read about this pattern and save a little moolah while purchasing it! 

http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/terras-treasures/terras-treasures-mayfair-top-or-dress-and-spats-e-pattern/
 

Go sew something magical!

 
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Friday, June 13, 2014

And the Winner is...

I know you all have been waiting with bated breath to find out who the winners of our 10,000 FB Fan Giveaway(s) are, right?  Well, let's wait no more! 
 
 

The winner of Prize Pack 1 is... Diane Hooker!!!

Here's what you've won, Diane!!!
 
$10 Gift Certificate to 8 Claws & a Paw Embroidery
$25 Gift Certificate to Beau Mitchell Boutique
$25 Gift Certificate to Southern Fabric
$25 Gift Certificate to Applique Café
$25 Gift Certificate to Fabric Outlet
1 pattern of choice from Blissful Patterns
Breeze Top PDF pattern from Peaches & Peanuts
2 patterns of choice from Brindille & Twig
2 patterns of choice from Wee Muses
3 patterns of choice from Cole’s Creations
3 patterns of choice from My Childhood Treasures
3 patterns of choice from Whimsy Couture
5 patterns of choice from Nanoo Designs
Monster Mash Fabric Bundle (between 5-8 yards) from Once Upon a Yard
Glitter Vinyl Sheets for embroidery (19 sheets in various colors, 12x12 in size) from Once Upon a Yard
Art Gallery Fabric Bundle (5 ½ yards) from Bee Quilted and More
5” Applique Scissors from Olfa
 
 

The winner of prize Pack 2 is....  Barbara Keith!!!

Here's what you've won, Barbara!!!
 
$25 gift certificate to Fat Quarter Shop
$25 gift certificate to One Thimble
$30 gift certificate to Fabric Worm
$50 Plum Box from Pick Your Plum
1 pattern of choice from Victory Patterns
1 pattern of choice from Wink Designs
2 patterns of choice from Filles a Maman
2 patterns of choice from Greenstylecreations
3 patterns of choice from The Handmaiden’s Cottage
3 patterns of choice from Monkeysbug Patterns
3 patterns of choice from Terra’s Treasures
3 patterns of choice from Lilac Lane
5 patterns of choice from Femikidscouture
5” applique scissors from Olfa
10-pack of “Handmade with Love” sewn-in clothing labels from Lilac Lane
Indygo Junction’s Alphabet Appliqué book
Indygo Junction’s Dimensional Denim book
Indygo Junction’s Stitched Style book
 

Drumroll, please!!!  The grand prize winner of the Brother PE- 770 Embroidery Machine is...  Rebecca Rushton!!!

 
I'll be emailing the winners shortly, so be checking your inboxes (and spam folder, too!)  Winners will have 48 hours from now (June 13th at 3:30 PM CST) to claim their prizes or another winner will be chosen.  Your email will be coming from hello.fairytalefrocks@gmail.com, so be on the lookout! 
 

If you didn't win, don't be disappointed!  We've up got a 20% off sale code you can use at Fairytale Frocks & Lollipops.  A little retail therapy will take your sorrows away ;)  Just enter the code MOVINGDAY at checkout.  The sale will last until Krista makes it safely to her new home next week.  Browse through over 1,000 PDF sewing patterns for boys, girls, women, men, and around the house.  Happy shopping!

 
A BIG CONGRATS to our winners!!  And a BIG THANK YOU to our sponsors, our fans, and everyone who entered the giveaway!!  We truly hope you had fun participating!!
 
Now go sew something magical!!
 

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Thursday, June 5, 2014

Our 10,000 FB Fan Giveaway(s)... and it's BIG!!!




Can I just say how awesome our fans are?  Fairytale Frocks & Lollipops has just reached 10,000 fans on our FB page, and we are ready to celebrate YOU!!!  As a thank you for all of your support, we are having not 1... not 2... but 3 giveaways!  Yeah, we kinda want to spoil you.  Take a look at this HUGE list of amazing sponsors below!  Please be sure to check out their websites and show them some love!


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/greenstylecreations-e-patterns/


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/filles-a-maman-e-patterns/


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/figgys-patterns-e-patterns/


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/brindille-twig-e-patterns/


https://www.etsy.com/shop/beequiltedandmore


http://kimsfabric.com/fabric/


www.bittyblanks.com


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/amelie-clothing-e-patterns/


www.appliquecafe.com


www.arbblanks.com


http://www.baileygirlsfabric.com/


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/blissful-patterns-e-patterns/


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/whimsy-couture-e-patterns/


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/wink-designs-e-patterns/


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/victory-patterns-e-patterns/


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/terras-treasures/


http://www.8clawsandapaw.com/


www.fabricworm.com


http://www.beaumitchellboutique.com/


http://www.stitchboxmonthly.com/


www.southernfabric.com


www.olfa.com


http://the-fabric-stash.com/


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/lilybird-studio-e-patterns/


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/the-handmaidens-cottage-e-patterns/


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/my-childhood-treasures-e-patterns/


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/pink-poodle-bows-e-patterns/


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/peaches-and-peanuts-e-patterns/


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/monkeysbug-tees-e-patterns/


http://www.onethimble.com.au/


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/indygo-junction-e-patterns/


www.pickyourplum.com


https://www.facebook.com/groups/SewItSeamsFabric/


https://www.etsy.com/shop/MadMadGraphics


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/lilac-lane-e-patterns/

http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/femikidscouture-e-patterns/


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/coles-creations-e-patterns/


http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/nanoo-designs-e-patterns/


http://purpleseamstressfabric.com/


www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com


www.fatquartershop.com

http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/lenas-patterns-e-patterns/

http://www.fairytalefrocksandlollipops.com/wee-muses-e-patterns/


www.kenssewingcenter.com
 
Before we begin, I want to make sure everyone knows that the giveaways are only open to US residents to keep shipping charges low for our sponsors.  You must be 18 years or older to enter.  You are more than welcome to enter all three giveaways.  In order to be eligible to win, you must like all of the FB pages listed on the Rafflecopter.  The giveaways will run until June 12th at 10 AM CST.  Winners will be chosen within 48 hours after the giveaway ends, and will be announced here on our blog.  We will notify winners by email, and they will have 48 hours to claim their prize.  If the prize has not been claimed after 48 hours, we will choose a new winner.  Please give us and the sponsors a few weeks to coordinate and send out all prizes. 
 
 

Now, let's talk prizes!



First up, we have a phenomenal assortment of PDF pattern packs, fabric gift cards, applique and embroidery gift cards, and so much more!  This is valued at over $400, y'all.  I mean, holy cow!!  Check out this list:
 
$10 Gift Certificate to 8 Claws & a Paw Embroidery
$25 Gift Certificate to Beau Mitchell Boutique
$25 Gift Certificate to Southern Fabric
$25 Gift Certificate to Applique Café
$25 Gift Certificate to Fabric Outlet
1 pattern of choice from Blissful Patterns
Breeze Top PDF pattern from Peaches & Peanuts
2 patterns of choice from Brindille & Twig
2 patterns of choice from Wee Muses
3 patterns of choice from Cole’s Creations
3 patterns of choice from My Childhood Treasures
3 patterns of choice from Whimsy Couture
5 patterns of choice from Nanoo Designs
Monster Mash Fabric Bundle (between 5-8 yards) from Once Upon a Yard
Glitter Vinyl Sheets for embroidery (19 sheets in various colors, 12x12 in size) from Once Upon a Yard
Art Gallery Fabric Bundle (5 ½ yards) from Bee Quilted and More
5” Applique Scissors from Olfa
     

    To try your luck at this giveaway, enter here...

    *Please note that you must like ALL the FB pages listed for your entries to count!*

    a Rafflecopter giveaway


     For our second giveaway, we have another jaw-dropping assortment of sewing books, PDF pattern packs, fabric gift cards, and so much more!!  And guess what??  This prize pack is valued at approximately $400, too!!!  I'm tellin' ya, go show our sponsors some love.  They went above and beyond!  Check out this list:

    $25 gift certificate to Fat Quarter Shop
    $25 gift certificate to One Thimble
    $30 gift certificate to Fabric Worm
    $50 Plum Box from Pick Your Plum
    1 pattern of choice from Victory Patterns
    1 pattern of choice from Wink Designs
    2 patterns of choice from Filles a Maman
    2 patterns of choice from Greenstylecreations
    3 patterns of choice from The Handmaiden’s Cottage
    3 patterns of choice from Monkeysbug Patterns
    3 patterns of choice from Terra’s Treasures
    3 patterns of choice from Lilac Lane
    5 patterns of choice from Femikidscouture
    5” applique scissors from Olfa
    10-pack of “Handmade with Love” sewn-in clothing labels from Lilac Lane
    Indygo Junction’s Alphabet Appliqué book
    Indygo Junction’s Dimensional Denim book
    Indygo Junction’s Stitched Style book
     
     

    You can enter the second giveaway here:

    *Please note that you must like ALL the FB pages listed for your entries to count!*
     
    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    And for our super-duper, unbelievable Grand Prize, we are giving one lucky lady her very own, brand-new, Brother PE-770 Embroidery Machine!!!  Think of all the those gorgeous little outfits you sew being adorned with monograms, appliques, and embroidery designs!!  An embroidery machine really adds a special touch to just about anything!  You can embellish hats, bags, bibs, shirts, towels, clothing, and so much more!  This is the machine that I have at home, and let me just say, one of you is going to be a very happy seamstress  :)   To read the full details about this machine, click here.
     

    Enter to win the Brother PE-770 Embroidery Machine here:

    *Please note that you must like ALL the FB pages listed for your entries to count!*
     
     

    To make the celebration even sweeter, we're offering 15% off at Fairytale Frocks & Lollipops for a limited time with the code CRAZYGIRL at checkout!!!  Browse through over 1,000 PDF sewing patterns from the most popular independent designers. 

     
    We love our fans and hope that this was a fun little way of showing it!  Again, please let our sponsors know that you appreciate their donations and support. 
     

    Good luck, and go sew something magical!!

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