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Made by a Fabricista: You're Gonna Hear Me Roar!!

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Helloooo!! I'm back and I'm still sewing with knits!  Recently I made it my mission to find more TNT- tried and true patterns, those that I've mastered the fit on and I can come back to again and again for easy no fuss makes.  One of the patterns I chose to master was a basic knit dress.  What's not to love about knits I ask??  I'm quickly becoming obsessed!  Knits are so comfy to wear...soft, breathable, stretchy and easy to launder, wash-dry-no iron involved! 




I picked up this fun animal print jersey knit from Fabric Mart. (Exact fabric not available yet, but check out the other knits available!) It's lightweight and super comfy.  For the pattern I used Kitschy Coo's Lady Skater pattern.  This pattern is very functional, dress it up for work or play it down with some sneakers for shopping.  It features a fitted bodice that ends at the natural waistline and flows into an easy breezy skirt.  It's flattering on any body type.



I started with a tissue fitting of the pattern on my handmade dress form, then moved to a muslin.  Very quickly (because I know fitting can be a real snooze to read about) my alterations were (I cut a size 3):
    1. Shortened front and back bodice 2 1/2 inches
    2. Shortened upper back bodice 3 inches, this really helped my swayback problem
    3. Pinned out excess on front bodice, armpit to apex
    4. Shortened the sleeves 5 inches. 
    5. Shortened hem line 1 inch
Once my muslin confirmed a good fit I moved on to the real deal.  Using my serger allowed me to make this in a little over an hour.  I always breathe a little easier after the neckline band is attached.  I'm so paranoid I'm either going to stretch it too much resulting in a puckered neckline or stretch it not enough for a floppy neckline.  This neck band was drafted to perfection, no holding my breath necessary!



The only time I used my sewing machine was when using the twin needle to finish the neckline and hem line.



I'm really pleased and excited to have one tried and true pattern to add to my stash.  I've also made this up in a red ponte knit and think this striped print would be super cute. 



Because the knit is lighter weight it will be perfect for spring or summer.  But that's not gonna stop me from wearing it now with boots and a cardigan!


What's your TNT knit pattern?
~Shannon


Comments

  1. Linda LFebruary 13, 2014 at 8:12 AM

    Cute dress! I have this pattern and need to give it a try.

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousFebruary 13, 2014 at 9:47 AM

    I love Kwik Sew 3571. I probably have made thirty dresses using this pattern.I modified the pattern to fit me perfectly.I gave the dress a more fitted shape and made it knee length. I have used all kinds of fabrics and so I have a whole wardrobe of dresses from casual to elegant. I agree with you, knits are very comfortable to wear and easy care.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Rose OKFebruary 16, 2014 at 9:57 PM

    Where did you get this pattern? It is not from the states.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. ShannonFebruary 20, 2014 at 6:28 PM

      This is a downloadable pattern available here, http://kitschycoo.bigcartel.com/product/the-lady-skater-sewing-pattern-for-teens-and-women

      Delete
  4. It's Melanie DarlingFebruary 20, 2014 at 8:37 AM

    Its a lovely dress and even more lovely on you.

    ReplyDelete

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