Sew and Tell with the Payden Pants

 

Hi everyone!  How many patterns for ruffle pants do you currently own?  My answer is always, "Not enough!"  Lol!!  Each one is unique in its own way, and I hate doing the math to make adjustments to a pattern I already own.  Ruffle pants go with EVERYTHING, so there's always a need for them.  And who wants a closet full of the same pair of pants?  Boring...

 

Let's get to our review for this week-  The Payden pattern from Juvie Moon!  These pants are super quick to put together and are FABULOUS!!  So what sets these pants apart from the others?  Take a look at the length.  They aren't really capris, and they aren't floor length.  These pants fall somewhere in between for a sort of "cropped" look.  These would be great pants to wear in the summer or to wear with boots in the colder months.  Plus, these aren't just ruffled pants... these are double ruffle pants!  You can do both ruffles in the same fabric as the legs or choose complimentary/contrasting fabrics to really create the fun, boutique look that Juvie Moon is known for. 

 

The Payden Pants are both quick to make and easy to wear.  There are 8 pages of instructions (though the first and last page just show an image of the finished product) and 12 pages of pattern pieces that are all nicely labeled with the sizes nested together.  There's an elastic waistband for a great fit and ease during trips to the potty.  (We all know that's a must during potty training!)  These can be made in girls sizes 2-8.  Juvie Moon has a really helpful document that shows you how much fabric you'll need for each size, the finished pants length, and waist measurements.  If you want to give these pants a try, we'll have them on sale for the next few days.  Head over to the website and get them for 25% off!  Well, actually, before you go, stick around and read the review sent in to us by Candice!

 

**********

 

 

I tested the Payden pants from Juvie Moon Designs in a 3T. I am an advanced beginner in sewing. I have sewn a few tops and dresses for my daughter, but this was my first pair of pants. I used cotton from Joann Fabrics.

 

 

It took me less than 2 hours to complete this sewing project from printing the pattern to trying the finished product on my daughter. The pattern pieces were very easy to assemble, and there were clear directions on how to measure the fabric for the ruffles and elastic for the waist. My only advice is to pre-wash your fabric and reinforce the seams.

 

  

These pants fit my daughter perfectly. The bottom of the ruffles land right at the top of my daughter's feet, which is nice because I don't have to worry about her tripping. The legs are nice and wide for a comfortable fit. The waist fits perfect- not too snug or loose. They cover her bum when she runs around playing, crawling, bending ever, etc. I don't have to worry about her undies showing. I did not change any of the pattern, but I think next time I might add pockets because my daughter loves putting her lip gloss and other small items in them.

 

 

I see my daughter having many pairs of these pants! She loves to spin around in them because of the ruffles. They are such a fun alternative to simple pants and look great dressed up or with just a simple T-shirt.

 

 

********** 

Pair it Up!

What's a perfect pair of pants without a perfect top?  Let's take a look at some great choices that you can give your little one a complete outfit that's absolutely perfect!

 

 

 

The Simply Sweet Girl's Tunic Top and Blouse from Wink Designs is exactly as it sounds- simply sweet!  Not only is there a long-sleeved option (as shown), but there is also a sleeveless option for summer, which makes this pattern a winner in my book!  It can be made in sizes 1- 8 years. 

 

 

 

Another option that your little one could wear all year long would be the Terrific Tee from Whimsy Couture.  This is a really versatile knit top that is made without binding.  It's made for both boys and girls, and comes with 2 sleeve lengths- either short or long.  It can be made in sizes 12m- 14 years.

 

 **********

Make sure you go to the website and purchase your copy of the Payden Pants for 25% off while it's still on sale  :)  Also, we'd love for you to join us as we kick off our 1st Annual Handmade Halloween Costume Contest!  Simply design a Halloween costume around one or more of the over 800 patterns we carry on our website.  We're giving away over $300 in awesome prizes from some awesome vendors!  Find the details by clicking on the banner below :)

 

 

 Go sew something magical!

 



Take a look at where we link up our blog posts! 


 

Sew and Tell with the Bailey Tunic

Hi everyone!  Who's ready for another Sew and Tell?  Today we've got the Bailey Tunic from GreenStyleCreations.  We know y'all are probably pretty darn excited about that because GreenStyleCreations is one of the most talked about pattern lines right now.  Designer Angelyn Bennett creates gorgeous patterns made for knit fabrics that are perfect for school, play, and everyday wear.  Her collection also include plenty of designs for women, so go pick out a few and do some selfish-sewing, ladies! 

 

We love the Bailey Tunic because:

 A.)  Look at it. It's stinkin' adorable! 

B.)  It's a super quick sew. 

C.)  It's made of knit, so it won't wrinkle easily, plus it's comfy and easy to wear!

D.)  The whole tutorial is only 13 pages long!  That includes the pattern pieces, too!  So if you are one who likes to print out the whole thing, you won't be using up a lot of paper and ink.

This pattern can be made in sizes 12m- 12 girls.  It comes with an optional short-sleeve template if you prefer to add sleeves.  You can get as crazy with the embellishment on the bib as you like, or you can keep it sweet and simple, if you prefer.  Don't be afraid to jump in and try a knit sewing project :)  This was our reviewer's first time using knits, and she did a great job!  If you're still feeling a little nervous, take a look at our Knit-acular, Spectacular post from a few months back that will help give you a little more confidence when sewing with knits. 

**********

Let's take a look at the review Neila sent in!  You can see her work at Speckled Pup Originals on Etsy.

Hello!  I recently completed the GreenStyleCreations Bailey Tunic.  I am somewhat of a new sewer, having only done wonky hems on my Mom's 50 year old Singer until Christmas of last year, when I received a new sewing machine from my sweet hubby.  Ok, basically, he said, "Go buy what you want, and I'll pay for it," which is really the best of both worlds!  Since then, I have been sewing a few dresses, completed a couple of sew-a-longs, and most recently made some purses.  I have been a little afraid of knits, so I decided to "just do it" and give this pattern a try. 

 

This pattern was very easy to follow and not too many pieces to cut out/tape together.  This pattern took about 2 hours, start-to-finish.  That included the front trim and buttons, which I am a little slow at.    I like that there were options for the front trim.  I chose to add rick rack and buttons to match.

 

I chose a fuchsia knit from Hobby Lobby (thin) and a turquoise zebra print from Hancock Fabrics (much thicker and nicer).  I'm new to the knit world, like I said, and didn't know what I was looking for.  However, I will say, both were easy to work with.  I dreaded working on the neckline, but a good rule of thumb is to cut the neckline 25% smaller than the neck opening, so it doesn't look stretched out and wonky (and trying the neckline over your model's head before attaching to the shirt helps too!)  I was quite proud of how my neckline turned out! 

 

I made the 5/6 size for my daughter, who is in 6/7's now.  Based on the measurements, however, I added a couple of inches where it says "lengthen or shorten here," and it was just right for my daughter.  So it tends to run a little on the bigger side.  If you are making it for someone who is between sizes, I would choose the smaller size to make, then just add length as needed.

I LOVE this pattern, and will be one of my go-to patterns for tanks from now on!  Best of all, my daughter LOVES it!!  

 

**********

 

I am a huge zebra print fan, so this top gets major kudos in my book!  And y'all, this was her first knit project!!  Isn't that awesome??  Doesn't that make you want to go give knit a try, lol?  I've really and truly decided I like sewing with knits recently, and it's especially easy with my serger.  Why don't you try out this pattern since we've got it for 25% off right now?  It will only be on sale for a few days, so make sure you get your hands on it NOW!! 

 

**********

 

Pair it Up!

Take a look at these super sweet finds that will perfectly compliment your Bailey Tunic!

 

 

The Bella Bubble Skirt from Laurence & Carmine Australia is a new addition to our shop.  It's a gorgeous bubble skirt that would be perfect for cooler weather!  Can't you just see it with some thick tights, furry boots, and a cardi over the Bailey Tunic?  You can sew this one up in either knits or non-stretch fabrics- both work great!  The size range is 3-6 years. 

 

 

The Little Big Pants pattern from LilyGiggle is not only fun to say, but it's also a great pair of cropped pants.  The wide legs and flat-front waist (elastic in back) give these pants a lot of personality.  These are perfect for up-cycling those vintage sheets or curtains that have sweet lace edging!  These can be made in sizes 12m- 10 years. 

 

**********

 

Make sure you go to the website and purchase your copy of the Bailey Tunic for 25% off while it's still on sale  :)  Also, we'd love for you to join us as we kick off our 1st Annual Handmade Halloween Costume Contest!  Simply design a Halloween costume around one or more of the over 800 patterns we carry on our website.  We're giving away over $300 in awesome prizes from some awesome vendors!  Find the details by clicking on the banner below :)

 

 

 Go sew something magical!

 



Take a look at where we link up our blog posts! 


 

Comparing Elastic Threads: Which is Best?

 

Hi there!  Have you ever wondered how elastic thread (you know, the kind you use for shirring) compares from brand to brand?  I normally buy Gutermann because that was what was available at JoAnn the first time I decided I needed some.  I've just been buying it ever since.  But a few months back, I went into Hobby Lobby and tried to pick some up, and they don't carry it!  So I decided to pick up a spool of Dritz elastic thread and a spool of Sew-Ology and hope for the best.  I was really impressed with Sew-Ology (I opted to try that one over the Dritz for my project).  I've also heard a lot of people talking about how awesome Stretchrite is, too.  With all these choices, what's a girl to do?  Well, I decided to do a little experiment to compare all 4 of these brands and want to share my results with you all so you can make informed buying decisions, too! 

Just some background info...

*  I cut 4 identical rectangles measuring 12"x 5" out of gray broadcloth.  I then labeled then A, B, C, and D.

*  I assigned Stretchrite to Fabric A, Dritz to Fabric B, Gutermann to Fabric C, and Sew-Ology to Fabric D.

 

*  I did 8 rows of shirring on each piece of fabric, with each row being 1/4" apart.

 The results...

The photo on the left shows the shirring before I hit it with some steam.  The photo on the right shows how much they shrank up once I steamed them.  Each blue square measures one inch.  The fabric rectangles started out being 12 inches long, and this is how much they've shrunk. 
 

Here's what I found.  The Sew-Ology thread created the tightest shirring, followed by Stretch-Rite, then Gutermann, and lastly Dritz.  This doesn't necessarily mean you should never use Dritz.  If you're wanting to add a little shirring, like to perhaps a pocket for some added interest, then Dritz might be a good choice.  I guess it would just depend on how tight you wanted your shirring to be for your specific project.  If using shirring on a bodice, I would want the tightest fit to ensure the bodice stayed put, so I'll be sticking with Sew-Ology for that :)

Please note that these are simply my findings from my own little experiment in my house.  I haven't made a garment with each of these threads to test their durability and/or long-term elasticity, so those might be other factors you would want to consider.  Plus, there may be other brands of thread out there that are awesome.  I don't know of any...but they might be out there!  So anyways, I hope this was helpful! 

 And now, a reminder about our latest contest!

 

We're hosting a Handmade Halloween Costume Contest, and we'd love for you to be a part of it!  Simply design a Halloween costume around one or more of the over 800 patterns we carry on our website.  We're giving away over $300 in awesome prizes!  Find the details by clicking on the banner below :)

 

 

 Go sew something magical!

 



Take a look at where we link up our blog posts! 


 

Sew and Tell with the Reversible Girl's Jacket

We had my son's first soccer game this weekend, and I almost needed a jacket!  I'm pretty sure fall is officially on the horizon, and I'm ashamed to say I've only sewn one fall pattern so far.  Time to get cracking on some warm wears for my princess.  Jackets are staples in every fall wardrobe, so that should probably be first on my list, right?  We have a precious one up for review today, and it's on sale, too!  Hurray!

The Reversible Girl's Jacket from Bettsy Kingston is a great option for those wanting to sew up some great-looking outwear.  It can be made in sizes newborn- 3 years or 3- 9 years.  They're sold as 2 separate patterns (but both are on sale right now!)  The Peter Pan collar adds the sweetest touch to the this fully reversible jacket that can be made from nearly any non-stretch light-medium weight cottons.  I know I've probably said it countless times, but I love garments for children that are reversible!  My daughter's name is Anessa Lu, and we lovingly call her Messy Nessie or A"mess"a Lu.  About 10 minutes after she gets dressed, there's a stain soon to follow.  She's two, so it's expected, right?  If we're out and about, and she's wearing something reversible, we can flip it around, and "Viola!" we've got a new outfit to work with :)  Makes this mommy's life a little easier.  

If you take a look at the actual pattern, the pieces look great, and the directions are really detailed.  You shouldn't have any problems with this one!  We had a glowing recommendation sent in to us from Jennifer.  I'll let her tell you all about it ;) 

**********

Hi everybody!  I am a stay-at-home mother to five beautiful children, ages 8, 3, 2, 2, and 9 months.  Needless to say, my house is a busy, hectic place to be!  I’ve been sewing for several years, and I consider myself to have an intermediate level of skill.  I try to sew a season in advance, so I’ve started making clothes for the fall and winter even though it’s still super-hot where I live.
 

I’m reviewing the Bettsy Kingston pattern for a reversible jacket.  It includes sizes 3-9, so I’ll be able to use it for two of my girls this year.  I love patterns with a large size range!  I measured my 3 year old, because she is tall for her age, and found her measurements fell right between a size four and a size five.  I sewed the jacket in a size five, but it seems a little big.  If I make another one for her, I’ll probably make a size four.

 
I chose a light weight bright pink denim and a cotton print fabric, and I set aside a morning to work on the jacket.  I sent the pattern to the printer, and went to the kitchen to get a drink.  When I came back, I found that my cat had knocked the pages on the ground, and they were all mixed up.  It was easy to put things back in the right order, though.  The instruction pages are numbered, and there is a very clear diagram showing how the pattern pieces fit together.

 

I was really excited to see that the pattern pieces print out on a grid.  This made it really easy to get the pieces lined up correctly.  There are four pattern pieces:  front, back, collar, and sleeves. 
 
Sewing the jacket together was easy and straightforward.  The directions are very clear, and there are lots of pictures included in case you need some extra help.  The pattern pieces fit together very well.  I didn’t have to use an ease stitch to get the sleeves in.  The instructions say to leave a 2 inch gap to turn the jacket right side out.  I found that I needed at least a four inch gap, but that may be due to my fabric choices.
 

I chose to close the jacket with snaps.  I covered big buttons with leftover fabric, and sewed them on top of the snaps.  I decided to add a few inches to the bottom of the sleeves so I could roll them up with the contrasting fabric showing.  I also added a chunky piping to the collar. 

It took only a couple of hours to put the jacket together.  I might have been able to do it faster if I had been able to work uninterrupted, but in a house with five kids that’s not going to happen!

I'm really pleased with how it turned out, and my daughter loves it too!  I’m looking forward to making a jacket for my oldest daughter.  I think a lightweight corduroy would work well.  This pattern is very versatile, and I can think of many different ways to customize it.  You could easily add pockets, appliqués, or embroidery.  I think a ruffle at the bottom would be cute, too! 

 

 **********

Doesn't that collar just make the jacket?  I really think the piping on the collar and the big buttons are the perfect touch!  This a great jacket to keep your babies warm this winter.  Make sure you take advantage of the 25% off discount that we are offering on it for the next few days so your kiddos can look this cute, too :)  And remember that the sizes NB- 3T and 3T- 9 years are sold separately, so pay attention to that before you check out!

**********

Pair it Up!

 Since I've shared with you all my deep love of reversible clothing, I thought I'd also share some of those patterns.  If we're kindred souls, and you share that passion with me, just type "reversible" into the search bar at the top right of our homepage, and we've got quite a large list that will pop up.  But for now, here are two great options!
 

 

 

The Harper Reversible Dress from Sew Sweet Patterns is an adorable A-line dress that can be made in sizes 6m- 3T.  It's a quick and easy sew that yields beautiful results!  Works great as a sundress, but can also be worn with some leggings and a warm shirt underneath for the cooler months.  This would be a great dress to use as the fall holidays approach.  Do one side Halloween themed and the other side Thanksgiving themed so that you aren't making 2 separate dresses that will only get worn once or twice.

 

 

This is the Reversible Skirt from Kikoi Patterns.  It's a full skirt that begs to be twirled in!  This would look so pretty in some festive Christmas prints with a cute little appliqued top.  You can make this skirt in sizes 6m- 9 years. 

 

********** 

 

Don't forget to head to the website so you can get your sweet deal on the Girl's Reversible Jacket!  And while you're there, browse around and get inspired!  We're hosting a Handmade Halloween Costume Contest, and we'd love for you to be a part of it!  Simply design a Halloween costume around one or more of the patterns we carry on our website.  We're giving away over $300 in prizes!  Find the details by clicking on the banner below :)

 

 

 Go sew something magical!

 



Take a look at where we link up our blog posts! 

Sew and Tell with the Metropolitan Pants

 

When I think of the Metropolitan Pants from Terra's Treasures, three words come to mind:  fun, funky pockets!  Now, if your style is a bit more conservative, and it's a solid colored pair of pants you're after, these will fit the bill just fine- just use the same fabric for the pockets as for the pants!  I, personally, am really digging the colorful contrast and think it's a great way to give a pair of kid's pants some spunk! 

 

I think you'll be impressed by everything these pants have to offer!  First off, the price is very reasonable (and even more so since we've got them for 25% off right now!).  Plus, you're getting a lot for your money.  This pattern works well for both boys and girls and can be made as capris if that's the look you're after.  The size range is from 0-6 months all the way to a size 10 (all sizes for each pattern piece are nested and color-coded), so you could just about make a pair for every kid in your house ;)  The welt pockets in the back are phenomenal, and the pattern's directions for how to make them are very detailed and include a lot of helpful photographs.  There are also functional pockets in the front, a flat-front waist band, and an elastic waistband in the back to ensure a good fit.  You'll end up with a very well-made pair of pants that will look great for school, church, or play-time!  Dress them up or down depending on your fabric choices.

 

Elisa wrote an excellent review of these and made her kids some pretty spiffy pants!  Let's take a look!

 

**********

 

 

Hi!  I'm Elisa from CharmingDoodle.com and am excited to be part of Sew and Tell.  I made two pairs of Terra's Treasure Metropolitan Pants, one for a boy, and one for a girl.  This is such a CUTE pattern and an easy sew.  I highly recommend it!

I have four kids (2 boys, 2 girls) and have only been sewing for about a year.  When I discovered the world of PDF patterns, I fell in love!  I'm always on the lookout for new patterns, and if a pattern can work for both my boys AND my girls...well, it's worth getting.

 

My two oldest are in 1st Grade and Kindergarten this year, and they have to wear school uniforms.  Their shirts have the school's logo, and their pants/skirts/shorts can only be black, navy, or khaki.  But the pants can have embellishments if they're small, so I chose to give this pattern a try and add orange pockets (at my son's request) and flowered pockets to my girl's pants to make them a little less 'uniform-y.'  The contrast fabric is the perfect punch to a pair of pants for them both.

 

Let's talk about the sewing details:

 

Overall, these pants are very easy and quick to sew.  Any adventurous beginner can sew these, and expert sewers can have fun adding unique details to this pattern.  From the time I cut out the pieces to the time I was finished sewing (I made both pairs at the same time) it was about 2 hours.  One pair would be even faster!

 

The big challenge in sewing the pants is figuring out what size to make.  There's no size chart with the pattern.  I made a size 7 for my son but they are tight at the waist so next time I would make an 8.  My daughter wears a 5/6 and I made a 6.  It fits her well and there is even some room to grow.  So if in doubt or if your child is between sizes in ready-to-wear, I'd make these in the bigger size.

 

 

There are only a few pattern pieces to cut out, and it's a bit confusing at first to determine which ones should be the contrast fabric for the pockets (if you make them with contrast fabric...you could just make them solid and they'd be cute too).  If you want to use contrast fabric, you'll cut out the pieces shown in the second cutting layout diagram with your contrast fabric, and the other three pattern pieces shown from your main fabric.
 

I admit that I was a bit intimidated at first by the look of the welt pockets.  I've only sewn welt pockets one other time, but it didn't take long to get the hang of them.  The instructions in the pattern are very clear, and if you read it carefully and look at the pictures provided, you'll be a pro at welt pockets in no time.

 

 

 I finished my son's pants first and after they were done I wished I had topstitched them with orange down the sides of the pants.  But I didn't want to pick them apart to do that...so I left them as is and decided to topstitch my daughter's in pink before I finished sewing the legs together.  It was an easy detail you can add to give the pants some personality.

I also made another pattern change to my daughter's.  After making my son's pants, I saw that the waist of these pants sits pretty high.  I actually cut them down over an inch for my daughter. To do that, I just cut the front pieces shorter at the front waist and then made the pocket piece deeper so you'd still see the pretty contrast fabric.  I did not cut the back piece down, instead I just folded it down more than the pattern calls for, and my elastic casing was bigger.

 

 

 I plan on making these pants again in the future and will probably try to add a zip fly to them.  The shape is really nice, and the length is great, so I think there's an endless amount of possibilities for these pants.

 

And oh, the compliments my kids have gotten.  It's pretty unique to have orange welt pockets for a boy, and I'm often asked where I bought them.  Little do they know that anyone can make these great pants with Terra's Treasure Metropolitan Pants pattern.  Hope you get it and whip some up too.

 

**********

 

How sweet are those two?  And didn't those pants turn out great!?!  I adore the flower print used for the pockets on her daughter's pants.  If your kids have to wear school uniforms, this might be a great option for you.  The school year has only just begun, and you've got plenty of time to sew up a few pairs to last throughout the year.  And at 25% off, you can count this as back- to- school savings :) 

 

**********

Pair it Up!!

 

Let's take a look at a few other of our Back To School Favorites!

 

 

First up is the Classic Polo from Peek-a-Boo Pattern Shop.  This is definitely one of those patterns you need in your collection!  It can be made for both boys and girls, with shorts sleeves or long sleeves, and has an optional chest pocket.  It can be made in sizes 3m- 12 years.  Love the way this one comes together!

 

 

 I think it's the plaid fabric, but this dress just SCREAMS back to school to me!  This is the Colette Dress from Petite Kids Boutique.  It is available in sizes 12m- 6 years.  You can make it with sweet little puff sleeves or sleeveless and with or with a sash.  The back has a button closure, and it features a full, twirly skirt.  Add the sash and puff sleeves along with some fancy fabric, and you've turned your school dress into a creation she can wear to church, for pictures, or any other special occasion.  Very versatile!

 

**********

 

 Hope all of your children (or grandchildren, nieces, nephews...) are off to a great school year!  Don't forget to head over to the website and purchase your Metropolitan Pants for 25% off for the next few days.  And if you are already planning to make your little one's Halloween costume, or if I just now made you think that's a pretty good idea, take a look at our Handmade Halloween Costume Contest!  We're giving away over $300 in prizes!  It's going to tons of fun, and we'd love for you to join us!  Find the details by clicking on the banner below :)

 

 

 Go sew something magical!

 

 



Take a look at where we link up our blog posts! 

Sew and Tell with the Victorian Romance

Hi everyone!  How did you like that long weekend?  Did you get a lot of sewing done?  Me, not so much (insert very sad face here).  I've got a few things sitting on my cutting table just begging me to work on them, and this little dress is one of them!  So excited to be sharing this review of the Victorian Romance Tunic/Dress from Foofoo Threads sent in to us by one of our wonderful customers!  We'll have it for 25% off on the website for a limited time, so hurry over!

I fell in love with Foofoo Threads from the first second I saw one of Jocelyn's patterns!  If you are looking for ruffles, frills, and all sorts of girly-goodness, you'll love what she has to offer!  Her designs are the epitome of princess dresses for everyday wear.  I've sewn up a few so far and have been very impressed with the directions and the fit.  She's very detailed and provides great instructions on how to change up the look so you can create exactly the outfit that's right for your little one!  In her patterns, you'll find fabric requirements, size charts, and both photos and sketches to help you see exactly what you should be doing at each step.  You'll also find that instead of wasting your ink and paper to print out a large rectangle, she just gives you the measurements so you can use your cutting mat to get those pieces.  There is only a total of 6 pages of pattern pieces for the Victorian Romance pattern, and all sizes are neatly nested and color coded using beautiful graphics.  Everything is neatly labeled and numbered, just as it should be :) 

The Victorian Romance can be made in sizes 12m- Girls 8.  It features a sweetheart neckline, puffed sleeves, a wrap skirt adorned with ruffles, a flattering sash, and a shirred back bodice for the perfect fit!  If you've never tried shirring, let me just say that it's a piece of cake.  If your machine is giving you grief, do a Google search on how to shirr with your specific machine.  Brother's are notorious for being difficult because of the automatic tension adjustment, but you'll be able to learn some tricks to teach it who's boss ;)  I should have a tutorial on shirring posted in the next week or so.  You can use the pattern to make a dress or tunic and can choose either short or 3/4 length sleeves!   

Let's take a look at the review sent in to us by Rebecca W.

 

**********

 

 

I have been sewing on and off for about twenty years.  My mom taught me how to sew in her basement as I was growing up.  My daughter was born three years ago, and I sewed a few things for her, but then my husband bought me a new sewing machine, and I've been sewing nonstop ever since.  My mom and I run a sewing shop together, and you can find it on Etsy or on Facebook.

 

The Victorian Romance pattern by Foofoo Threads is fabulous!  Some of the things I love about this pattern are that it is so unique with the sweetheart neck and peek a boo skirt.  Once I added the ruffle to the skirt it made a cute dress adorable!  I was so excited when I began reading the pattern because there were options for short or 3/4 length sleeves and options of tunic or dress length.  

 

Because of all of the fabulous details in this pattern it took me about eight hours to cut and sew the dress.  (I chose the dress length and 3/4 sleeves so I would be ready for fall.) The pattern included cutting measurements for all the pieces except the sweetheart bodice, which had pattern pieces.

 

The dress calls for a sash around the waist, but I ran out of fabric.  So until my order arrives, we are sash-less.  The skirt fabric is the blue Garden Charm by Michael Miller, and the ruffles are Kiss Dots Yellow by Michael Miller.  My daughter and I love everything about this dress.  I love all of the details that make it so unique, and my daughter loves the fabulous twirl of the dress.

 I looked at the sizing chart and chose a size larger than what my daughter measured, and I'm glad I did because the bodice has a snug fit. The pattern calls for you to sew a straight seam on the back bodice over the shirring, and I think next time I will not do this so the back has a little more give to it.

 If I were to recommend this pattern to another sewist, I would suggest it to an intermediate sewer because there are lot of ruffles, a sweetheart neck, and shirring on the back of the dress.  I have a Brother sewing machine and I've found shirring difficult until I found this shirring tutorial on YouTube. 

 As you can see from my pictures this dress has amazing ruffles and a great twirl factor! I love it, and my daughter's only complaint is that there isn't any pink on the dress.

**********

 

I'm pretty sure her daughter and I could be the best of friends, ha!  I have to admit, though, that I'm really digging the blue with yellow accent ruffle.  Rebecca did a beautiful job!  I always love, LOVE seeing what you all create!  It usually motivates me to finish my (never-ending) housework so I can sit down and sew, myself  :)

 

If you'd like to give this pattern a try, we have it on sale for 25% off for the next few days!  This could be a gorgeous Christmas dress, and it's never too soon to start thinking about Christmas attire!  Do yourself a favor and pick up this pattern while it's on sale! 

 

**********

  Pair it Up

This week, we'll take a look at a few other clothing items that feature the gorgeous wrap-around look!

 

 

 This is the Janie Curved Skirt from Hadley Grace Designs.  It comes in a huge range of sizes from NB- size 14!  This pattern is great for beginners and would be a quick sew!  We love the overlapping ruffle border!

 

This is the Ruffled Crossover Top from Monkeysbug Patterns.  Very feminine and unique.  It can be made in sizes 2T- Girls 10.  A gorgeous summer top that could easily be layered over a long-sleeve tee for those cooler days ahead! 

**********

Ok ladies, don't forget to head over to the website to purchase your Victorian Romance pattern for 25% off!  We also have a costume contest you might be interested in.  You can read all about our 1st Annual Handmade Halloween Costume Contest here!  We've got three really snazzy prize packages we'll be handing out to the winners, so go pick out your patterns and let your creative juices flow!  We'd love for you ALL to participate  :)

 

 

Go sew something magical!

 



Take a look at where we link up our blog posts!