It started with a 'fat quarter'...
By Victoria As-it-Seams - 13:47
So it all began when I 'accidentally' bought a 'fat quarter' of the most whimisical Kokka fabric on eBay. I've only recently discovered that a 'fat quarter' is basically a 50cm square.
Now what to do with such a tiny bit of fabric?
I had an idea of making a blouse or tunic, as I find that with English weather Missy gets a lot more wear out of things she can team with trousers. And also a shorter length is easier to play in.
So with that in mind, I set about finding a pattern. And found inspiration, as if often the case from , StraightGrain's cute bubble dress pattern, bought on her etsy shop here.
It was the first time I'd used a digital pattern (there were lots of first's with this project), and it was super easy - and I love the fact that you can re-print it every time you need to, or make a mistake.
I only used the bodice of the pattern, and made a few moderations. I cut a size 4, but was still concerned it might be small (I want everything I make to last and last) so added a button placket, which widened the bodice. This meant I also had to add to make the lining bigger. I fiddled for ages to see how much I could get out of my fat quarter - in the end only the bodice pieces and collar, but NOT the collar lining.
I'm obsessed with piping, and the button placket was also an excuse for more! It does mean that the collar sits a little wider than in StraightGrain's bubble dress design. I kind of like that effect though.
This lovely sage green fabric from my local shop seemed perfect to combine with the Kokka. I think it's furnishing fabric, but the weight makes it swing beautifully, and it was wide and good value.
I cut sleeves using a modified Burda blouse pattern, and made up the cuffs with a rectangle of fabric. They're not actually meant to be turned back as in the picture, indeed this bit of pink binding isn't meant to be on show (look closely and you'll notice it's a bit roughly done). But the sleeves were too long for Missy. For now... Long sleeves, and cuffs I can turn back, should mean she'll be wearing this next year!
Box pleats at the front and back (another first for me - which might be why they're a bit wonky - look carefully and you'll see they're not symetrical at the back.
But overall I love this - and she does. She's worn it loads with little trousers, and it's been pretty and perfect for our changeable spring.
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5 comments
Its really lovely. ;-)
ReplyDeleteThanks Rowie!
ReplyDeleteI adore this dress. And your second to last picture (with the flower) is brilliant! Fantastic that you are using it as your header! Your little girl is adorable...
ReplyDeleteOk, I have a total blog crush! :-)
Natalie
Natalie, that's so sweet of you!
DeleteVictoria
What a beautiful dress and fabulous photos!!!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for taking the time to comment. I love hearing from you, and try to reply as often as I can, either here or by email. All views, tips, gratefully received...
Victoria