Well, here goes. My first blog post (other than my brief intro post, that is). I've been wanting to do this for a while, but I really didn't have any content I wanted to write about.... Then came along this opportunity to test a pattern for a new pattern designer (Hello Holli), and the resulting dress was worthy of starting a blog for!! I went ahead and volunteered to be part of a tester tour for this new pattern as a part of Kids Clothes Week, and this post will be featured on Hello Holli's blog on Wednesday, July 1.
The Blue Ridge Dress is a beautifully crafted dress, designed for woven fabrics. This took me outside my comfort zone a little bit as I've primarily sewn garments with knit fabric. The pattern called for bias tape, and although pre-made bias tape would have saved me a bunch of time, I dove in and decided to follow the instructions in the pattern and make my own! It honestly was very simple thanks to the clear instructions, and although tedious, definitely produced an additional awesome detail! I love how the self-made bias tape is a bit thinner than store bought. That definitely worked well on my small dress!
My beautiful bias tape!
I have to admit I haven't sewn too many patterns meant for woven garments, so I'm by no means an expert, but the fact that this dress has absolutely no exposed seams makes for the cleanest finish I've ever seen! Even though I am now the proud owner of a serger, I did not have to use it on this dress as all seams are enclosed!! The construction was very unique, and took a bit of finesse to get everything laying properly, especially the bindings, but even with my "advanced beginner" sewing skills, I was able to produce a very neat garment!
Below are a couple shots of my daughter in the Blue Ridge Dress. A storm was rolling in (and honestly, it has rained every day since then!!) so I did not get as many shots as I wanted before it started raining! I was so happy I remembered to capture a picture of the back of the dress. I used one of my favorite buttons from my late grandmother's collection. One of my favorite activities I used to do at her house was sort her buttons she always kept in a couple of old cigar boxes. I distinctly remember this pink button, and it makes me smile when I see it sewn onto this beautiful dress for my daughter. The modeled shots really show off the unique curve of the bodice.
I also got some cute shots of my little angel playing in the rain. I thankfully whipped the dress off and got her t-shirt back on just in time! She just loves trying to catch raindrops.
The Blue Ridge Dress is now available to purchase through Hello Holli's Etsy shop and it is on sale through July 3 using code BLUERIDGELAUNCH at checkout. https://www.etsy.com/listing/237343070/blue-ridge-dress-pdf-sewing-pattern?ref=shop_home_active_1
If you purchase this pattern, be sure to join the Hello Holli Maker's facebook group and share your creations! https://www.facebook.com/groups/1462600460722788/