What Pattern did you use? I used Patterns by Gertie for Butterick _ 5953. It is a fitted vintage inspired wrap dress with front bands, and a slightly shaped right front. The left front crosses underneath the right and ties to the side seam. There is a button closure on the right front side. The sleeves can be long or just above the elbow. There is also a godet in the back.
What fabric did you use? Why did you choose it? I used a solid turquoise linen fabric, and a coordinating tone on tone cotton fabric. I used the cotton fabric for the row of buttons on the side front, the front bands, and the godet in the back. I loved the color of view B on the pattern envelope so I used that for my inspiration, and the shorter sleeves on view A which are a better fit for my lifestyle and climate. 
Would you recommend the pattern? Would you change anything next time? I recommend the pattern because it is an easy construction with good step by step instructions. The added details: covered buttons, front bands, and godet make it look more couture. It does have a low-cut neckline, that can be somewhat revealing. I used a bit of fashion tape to keep the dress from gaping open too much. I got a thumbs up from my hubby, so you might see me in it! The only thing I would change is an adjustment to the depth of the neckline if I were to make it again. I don’t think I will though, one dress like this is enough.
Any interesting details? The pattern called for 1 inch buttons. I purchased 7/8 inch buttons that you cover. I used the same fabric for the buttons, front bands, and godet. It looks really pretty and totally unique.
What do you think of your finished garment? I’m very pleased with the fit and style, and I love all of the unique details such as the covered buttons and the godet in the back. I chose it because it is different than what I usually sew for myself. It was fun to make, and the result was exceptional! 
First worn? I modeled it for pictures while my daughter was visiting us. She snapped the photos in our backyard in front of our colorful maple tree, that just happens to be crimson red this time of year.
Happy Sewing!
I’m thrilled to share this unique and easy to make reversible dress with you! This is Lekala pattern 4545. 
We just got back from vacationing in the great state of Alaska. First we went by sea, visiting little towns in the Inside Passage. Then we rented a car and drove as far as Anchorage. Along the way, we enjoyed the country side, the little towns of Homer, Seldovia, Copper Landing, and the big city of Anchorage. As much as I enjoyed the incredible expansive wilderness filled with snowcapped mountains, glaciers, and wildlife, I also enjoyed finding two great quilt/fabric stores in Cooper Landing and in Anchorage.
Each store had unique Alaskan themed fabric designed by Alaskan Artists. I felt like a kid in a candy store, in both locals. I bought small amounts of fabric and one quilt kit featuring bears and moose. The first store I visited is, Bearly Threaded Quilting in Cooper Landing. The bigger sister store is located in Soldotna, 
I hope to incorporate the fabrics into my Splendid Sampler Quilt that I am making this year along with more than 20,000 other quilters around the world. We receive two patterns a week for a six inch block. Each one is designed by different quilt artist. I’m learning everything from paper piecing, embroidery, and appliqué in this incredibly challenging but fun quilt-along hosted by Pat Sloan and Jane Davidson. It’s not too late to join in on the fun. Just go to the website, 
I spy sea otters, bears, bald eagles, whales, seals, moose, in their natural habitats and I also find fabric treasures that will remind me of this special time and place.
Would you recommend the pattern? Would you change anything next time? I love the fit and style of of this pattern. It turned out wonderfully. I’m already imagining how I could change it up, by gathering the skirt, and altering the neckline. I especially love how the lining is attached at the top of the shoulders and how the skirt lining is attached to the bodice lining and hangs freely like a slip. It feels delightful to wear.
Any interesting details? There are quite a few interesting details that you would never find in RTW garments. The hem has a separate lining, that is hand-stitched with two strands of embroidery thread. This took over an hour to do. I knew it was going to look fantastic so I didn’t mind spending the time on it. It also has crocheted belt loops to hold a purchased belt in place.
What do you think of your finished garment? I’m very pleased with the fit and style. I love all of the unique details that make it so special. I’ve since purchased a narrow patten-leather belt to highlight the black details of the dress for next time.
First worn? I wore it for a get together with my two youngest daughters on Mother’s Day. We stayed at the Flamingo Inn in Santa Rosa. My youngest, humored me by taking these pictures while we were there.
I am getting ready for a vacation to Alaska! With the date fast approaching, I’ve made several knit tops from uniquely designed fabric from 
For my first test pattern, I used McCall’s 7059. I realized that I don’t like the seam allowance of 5/8 inch for knits. It is awkward to sew when using a serger. It’s much easier with patterns that are designed for knits and have a smaller seam allowance. The stitch line is easier to calculate underneath the cutting device.
It can be made into a 
It’s easy to make and has an interesting crossover back detail. The pattern is McCall’s 7127.
I love learning new things, especially when it involves sewing. At the beginning of the year, I joined 
Each week we receive two patterns for an original 6.5 inch square that has been designed and shared by different quilters. I have my basket of coordinating fabrics ready, and soon after the pattern is published, the excitement begins with the selection of the fabrics, then the measuring and cutting, and lastly the construction. Then comes the surprising and pleasing result!
Readers, if you want to jump in and learn over 100 different quilt block designs, it’s not too late! We are only 15 blocks in at this point. At the end of the year, we will all have over 100 blocks to put together into a quilt. The best part is that the quilt along is absolutely free!
