The pattern I used was the Anywhere Dress available at Go-To Patterns. I have made this dress before and blogged about it on my personal blog, Without Directions, but I thought I should do an official review here too.
Sizes available: This dress comes sized from 12 months to 12 years and thus is quite a bargain if you are sewing for multiple girls or if you are using it over and over again while your girl grows.
Special materials required: There are no closures or special notions required to make the dress but it is designed for knit fabrics and you may want rib knit for cuffs.
Skill level required: This dress is super easy. The most novice sewer would have a great time with this pattern.
I first sewed this pattern as a tester but I have sewing it a couple times now just because it is great.
For the dress version, I did not deviate from the pattern at all. But for the cardigan, I cut the front piece as two pieces; I did not place it on the fold. And then I added a facing around the edge and sewed buttons on the facing.
Good: It is a great basic and comes with 4 sleeve lengths and a faced neckline. The instructions are are also very clear and there are pictures that display each step. It is a pdf pattern, so you will need to print and tape it together.
Bad: There really is nothing negative about this pattern but I do have to say I like a ribbed neckline better than the faced neckline. I find it easier for construction and for getting over my children's large heads. I also have had problems with the facing popping out while the kids are wearing the dress.
Overall pattern rating: I give this pattern 4 of 5 bolts because it is such a great basic that anyone could whip up in an afternoon (faster if you are experienced).
The dress looks very comfortable and easy to wear. Perfect for an active kid! I prefer ribbed necklines to facings too. Facings that peek out are a pet peeve of mine!;)
ReplyDelete