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victory patterns
# sewingtricksand tips
pattern picks This month’s party dress patterns are perfect for a festive fiesta
Trina, $14, victorypatterns.com Hot off the drafting table at Victory Patterns is this classic wrap dress with a Japanese flavour in its kimono-style sleeves. The cross-over bodice creates a flattering V-neckline with gathers above the bust line. There is also a second option in the form of a versatile wrap tunic. For a slinky show-stopper, make up the dress in silk charmeuse in a striking plain or bold print. Newbies might want to opt for a more stable fabric, such as voile or double gauze. The pattern is available as a pdf in sizes US 2-16.
colour block
‘Feeling brave? Take on this chic wrap dress in a luxe silk’ ESME CLEMO, CONTENT PRODUCER
seamwork Catarina, $12, seamwork.com
sew over it Rosie, from £8.50, sewoverit.co.uk
Vogue 8944, £12, sewdirect.com From well-renowned brand Vogue Patterns, style 8944 is a true classic. The colour block panels create an ultra-flattering style and are easy to personalise – why not create an on-trend ombre effect? The dress is lined, with a yoke front and back zipper, and has a neat narrow hem. It can be made up in sizes US 6-22, making it great for all figure types. For winter outings, try the sleeved option or stitch in ponte knits for a casual finish. If you’ve a more glam do in mind, try a printed crêpe instead.
vintage vibe
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TOPSTITCHING This literally involves stitching on top of the seam, either for decoration or to add strength. Use contrasting topstitching thread or an all-purpose variety. You can also buy specific needles for the job – twin needles create a lovely hem detail. Avoid backstitching to keep the front of your project neat and keep stitching parallel to the seam – an edgestitch foot will help with this.
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2-hour make
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ROULEAU CORD Rouleau straps or loops are very fine tubes of fabric that create a length of cord. They are often used with buttons instead of buttonholes but also make delicate straps. Start by cutting fabric on the bias and fold in half lengthways, right sides together. Stitch close to the fold. Trim close to the seam and turn out using a loop turner or bodkin. Press flat, or steam to keep the loop rounded.
WORDS STEPH DURRANT
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SIZES/T
The latest pattern from sewing goddess, Lisa Comfort, the Rosie dress has everything we’ve come to expect from Sew Over It patterns. Flirty, feminine and with a vintage feel, Rosie is the ultimate party dress, complete with a fitted bodice and full skirt. There are three versions to choose from, too: the first has a retro collar and wide straps, while the second has a pretty sweetheart neckline and dainty rouleau straps. Option three is a versatile skirt taking you through all the seasons – stitch it in printed cotton for summer or cosy wool crêpe for winter. The pattern is available as a printed or pdf version in UK sizes 8-20.
<#A#> THE CRAFT NETWORK sewing
Only got a few hours to stitch your dream party dress? Enter Catarina. It takes just two hours to construct this midi-length marvel, which features a gathered skirt and elasticated waist, combined with a figure-skimming top. The pattern is pdf only and can be made in US sizes 0-26. Catarina is stunning in silk charmeuse, or try rayon for a more dressed down look.
vogue patterns
V8944 SIZE / TAILLE
VERY EASY VOGUE
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GATHERING This is a simple way to make a circle skirt fit a bodice. Divide the skirt top into sections and machine two or three rows of long tacking stitches. Leave the thread tails long and pull up the bobbin thread to gather, making sure they’re even before pinning and sewing.
sewing THE CRAFT NETWORK <#B#>