Red Cedar
More apocalypse, less angst
Post #3124: Unlocking new levels
In the last couple of months, I’ve leveled up my sewing on a few fronts – and the dress I’m showing off today is no exception:
This pattern – Vogue 8743 – from the Very Easy Vogue line is about as simple as it gets when it comes to sewing – princess seams from top to bottom which means no seam matching of skirt and bodice, and bias-binding for the finish (which I far prefer over facings). I even managed to omit the zipper since I can pull this one on over my head. The “fancy”element to the pattern is a pleat in the center which is a simple way to give the skirt extra volume and a wonderful shape.
In short – I am completely in love with this new dress – and it fits me near perfectly.
The leveling-up on this particular pattern comes with the finishing – which was all done by hand, using invisible stitches. This dress is the first garment I have made where no stitches are visible on the outside – and it really makes a difference to the overall look. Hard to tell in a photo – as it should be!
The hibiscus print fabric is from some yardage that I purchased in Maui a few years ago, and the remainder of the dress is made from Kaufman black broadcloth. I had originally planned to line this dress, but for summer wear I don’t want to add any additional layers and I made sure the inside finish was tidy. If I make this pattern again (very likely) I will french seam instead.
Other levels achieved recently include precision button holes as well as shirt cuffs and collars. More button up shirts and swimwear are on the list as well. I don’t know if I’ll get there before the end of summer or not – jeans and underwear are on the roster for the fall. I can’t say that my clothes look ready-to-wear because they don’t really – but it’s not really what I’m going for. Well made and well fitted – *that’s* what I’m going for.
Red Cedar 
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