7.13.2010

Cynthia Rowley Knit Dress : Steps 1 - 4

OK time to get started on this dress. I must say I can already tell this is going to be a challenge. Luckily I keep getting comments from those who have already made this pattern so hopefully we can dodge some bullets.




1 - Staystitch - Staystitching is permanent stitching that helps to stabilize curved edges.

Staystitch the front and back pieces 1/4" in from the seamline (or keep the edge along your presserfoot). Start in the middle of each piece and then stitch to the outside edges. I used a regular straight stitch for this (not a stretch stitch). Backstitch at both ends.




2 - Cut 2 pieces of lightweight interfacing that are 3/4" wide and about 7 inches long. Apply to the wrong side of your fabric on the seam allowance of the left side of your front and back pieces. (where the zipper will go)



3 - Pin front and back sections together at right side seam and stitch with a 5/8" seam allowance using a stretch stitch.


Stretch Stitch - my machine has a stitch that is a slight zigzag that allows the seam to stretch slightly after stitching. Number 9 on my machine. Check your manual to see if you have one. If not, a very wide (almost straight) zigzag will give a similar effect. (test on scraps first)


4 - Apply fusible interfacing to 1- front midriff and 1- back midriff. Put right sides together and stitch the front and back midriff on the right side seam with a stretch stitch.


6 comments:

  1. Your dress is going to be very cute with the stripes. Can't wait to see how it turns out!

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  2. When you say front and back peices, we're only talking about the bodice at this point, right? Not the skirt panels?

    Thank you!

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  3. sarah - yes, thanks for clarifying. just the bodice pieces for now.

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  4. i envy your fabric...can't find anything that cute!

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  5. Anonymous26.7.10

    question: so on the bodice front pattern piece it says along the top that there's a 3/8" seam allowance. is that only on that one side? are the sides/bottom still 5/8"?

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  6. woowhokids - yes, that is only on the top. the rest is 5/8". the reason for the 3/8" is because it is such a tight curve around the neckline.
    that being said, i kinda wish that i had done a smaller seam allowance on the waistband now as well, because i think the waistband is a bit too skinny. i would have liked it to be a bit wider.

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