Wear with Freedom!
Guys, I made a dress and… YES! It has pockets!
Once upon a time in Switzerland and no kids, between a Forchbahn and other in Stadelhofen, I had plenty of time to browse the isles of Orell Füssli, my favorite book store EVER.
Looking back, it could have been another life time and I’m always surprised by the books that I used to buy from that time. The “Stylish Dress Book” from Yoshiko Tsukiori it’s a great example. Because at that time I didn’t even had a sewing machine!!! I know right?! Crazy me.
Why a person that doesn’t sew at all would buy a book with dress patterns?! Because my friends, one day you may need it. And the day is TODAY!
During the weekend I was organizing some of my bookshelves and found this gem, and well, spring is here! Dresses are super welcome from this time of the year until the next winter and the “wear with freedom” is completely appealing.
It’s a book with popular Japanese patterns for experienced sewists, even with all my recent garment’s adventures I don’t consider myself as a “experienced sewist” BUT, you know me, always up to a challenge ;)
I totally love all the patterns from the book and it was really difficult to chose one, and I have plans to try other 2 patterns in the future. I decided to start with the “Dress with front pleats in Liberty print” from page 37. Before I even started to cut the fabric, I made sure that my fabric choice, “Quarry Trail” from Anna Graham for Robert Kaufman would work. This is a very important step, because the pattern was recommending Liberty cotton fabric, and I decided to use something heavier, textured Essex linen made up of 55% linen 45% cotton, that I bought it from Cottoneer Fabrics.
It was the first time that I adventured myself with a pattern that does not include seam allowances. This means that I needed to include while tracing each template to the fabric, and in some specific templates they may vary.
But honestly, I really enjoy learning new things and these garments tricks make me an even better quilter in general.
Talking about learning, first time ever sewing pleats, at least with this technique of folding and stitching the tucks on the wrong side of the dress front.
I really like the finishing details on the sides of the pockets, this was something brand new to me too!
Even with all the new elements it was an easy going pattern and the directions were clear to follow. I recommend you to use the sizing chart from the book and take some measurements of yourself to choose the right size for you. I used size 8 and also added 1” in the length of the dress.
Happy Spring!
Carolina