Made By A Fabricista: The Perfect Make!

Have you ever made the perfect dress? This pattern and fabric match was perfection! What an enjoyable sew and fun dress to wear. I made the Mabel Dress by Tilly and the Buttons in a rayon challis. OK, at first, I thought this pattern was not for me, but he milkmaid style is so popular! I tried one other pattern and I have not worn it since I completed it. Then, I saw so many beautiful Mabel makes and I wanted to try it to see how I liked it. I LOVE this pattern. TATB patterns are so well constructed and the instructions are so good that I don’t know why I hesitated. TATB patterns fit me really well. I made zero adjustments to this pattern and I really love it! I cannot wait to make another one.

Have you tried shirring? It is really fun and easy! There is shirring on the sleeve and waistline, front and back. There are instructions included in the pattern on how to sew shirring. Plus, TATB includes a free video tutorial that is listed inside the pattern instructions as well. I watched several sew-alongs on Youtube that were helpful for attaching the sleeves to neckline. Shirring is easy and fun! I hope you give this pattern a try.

The construction of the neckline is so clean. I really enjoyed sewing this dress because of the beautiful finish on the inside. My grandmother taught me to sew when I was a small child. She taught me to make sure the insides of my garments are as pretty as the outsides. My hand made garments last a long time because of the neat finishes and quality fabrics I select to sew. I enjoy patterns that instructions that include finishing techniques. The elastic channels and center front seam is constructed so well. All enclosed seams with precise seam lines.

The instructions ask you to measure your seams and I share two tools in the photos that I used to sew the seam line accurately. I measured the seam line from the needle to the edge of the fabric with my seam guide. Then, I placed a magnet at that measurement to keep the edge of the fabric on that sewing line. These tools really make creating the elastic channels really straight. 

I chose a rayon challis fabric that is in the color gunmetal, which is a really dark grey, and there are off white 8 pointed star-like shapes on the fabric, described as an abstract geometric print. I am always looking for fabric that is not floral and this is really a fantastic find! The rayon feels a little like a lawn and was really easy to sew and press. If you have not sewn rayon challis before, this one is a great one to try! It did not shift around like rayon challis is known to do. Rayon is my favorite fabric to wear 80% of the year. 

This pattern and fabric match is perfection. This dress is so comfortable to wear. The milkmaid style can be quite form fitting and this pattern, with shirring, provides the perfect balance of a shapely silhouette and comfort. The fun fabric design and gunmetal color make it a unique addition to my wardrobe! Lastly, I added a fun label That describes how I feel about this perfect make “the cat’s whiskers”. Will you make a Mabel? I am off to make another one right now! Happy Sewing!

Happy Sewing,

Patricia  |  @Hoppaheedahoe

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Unfortunately Fabric Mart Fabrics sell out quickly!
You can find similar fabrics by shopping the following categories: CHALLIS.