second dress

I started cutting out this dress on Monday, thinking I'd just get the pieces ready and sew it during General Conference. But then I thought, I might as well sew a little, and a little more, and then... this morning I realized I was 85% finished and I could have it done by lunch if I didn't take a shower. Which I didn't. And I still haven't.

I thought I'd make Simplicity 3875, with the crossover top and the cute sleeves. The more I looked at that pattern, I realized I didn't really like the rest of the dress, so I figured I'd try and patch the bodice front of 3875 onto the skirt and back bodice of 4072. (Which is the pattern I used on my last dress. Fortunately there's also an option for a set-in sleeve, or I'd be sunk.) That didn't necessarily work out so I ended up making entirely new pattern pieces for the bodice front, the sleeves and the neck bands. (I used that Quilter's Grid stuff - it's basically nonwoven interfacing with grid lines printed on - and I love it. I may start tracing all of my patterns now.)

I think I officially have a 'thing' for contrast topstitching, because this time I did it in pink.
And it's mostly straight! (Just don't look too closely at the midriff bands.) The biggest change I made from last time is that I widened the skirt band and doubled it over. I learned from making Betsy's doll dress that having a folded band at the bottom of the skirt gets you out of hemming it - and any time I can avoid hand sewing, I am a happy girl. Also, I only did one pocket, since I sort of ran out of room when I was laying out the pieces. Oh well - as long as I have room for my ChapStick, I can survive. ;-)

I just want to add that it's a REALLY gorgeous day outside today. I think I'll take the kids for a walk later. After my shower.

Also, if you see my mom today, wish her a happy 50th! Love ya Mom!