ME TOO. That's it, so many people have commented about it that I'm just going to make a video about the Big 4 vs. indies! I'm not a fan either - I just really liked this dress when I saw it on Sharon's channel. Pretty much every other indie pattern I see that I like, I know I can either duplicate or have a Big 4 version of it. I want to support those in the sewing industry, but maybe we should leave the indies to those who can't get Big 4 patterns for $1.99 -
Lovely versions, love the prints. I was a tester and made 2. These are my $0.02. Block fusing the interfacing on the facings will prevent them shrinking vertically. Some fabrics react to the adhesive more than others. Your stitching was perfect inside when you stitched in the ditch because the seam allowance the facing was folded in was 3/8” and the seam allowance on the princess seams was 1/2”. That means that the folded edge of the facing was a tad bigger and would protrude over the seam when stitching in the ditch. Most patterns don’t change the seam allowance and use the same, thus causing areas that are not caught on the inside. I actually hand sewed one of mine down because it was also an option and I enjoy watching a movie while I hand sew 😊. I also have more plans for this pattern 👍🏼.
Thanks Karina! You might have noticed that I linked you in the description box so everyone would be able to find your sewalong, which was wonderfully comprehensive. I've also gone back and added a card in the video to link to yours. I loved both your dresses too! My stitch-in-the-ditch sewing was perfect the first time, but the trouble in general wasn't with missing the facing edges or vertical stretch in the facing. It was that once stitched, there was more fabric on the right side and it wouldn't press flat and even with the facing - kind of like the facing was smaller than the bodice piece, so there was bunching and extra fabric on the outside. Like I said, it's probably the interfacing I used, which was a woven cotton, along with the curved edge of the princess seam. I always turn under edges less than the seam allowance when I'm finishing an inside edge (waistbands in particular) for the very reason you stated, which usually solves the problem of sewing blind from the right side and making sure you catch all the facing edges. Apparently others here and there have had this problem too with this pattern, but everyone finds their own way in the end. It's nice that the instructions gives you the option for hand stitching. I actually did that the second time and still ran into the problem of having more bodice than facing. The third time was the charm! But this was a simple problem that ended up being easy to fix. I love the dress, especially the pockets and the way they're constructed, I'll probably make at least one more. Thanks for your input - always great to hear an opinion from another experienced sewer, especially pattern testers like you and Sharon. ❤️
I love Itch to Stitch patterns, I haven't got this one as I'm not a dress person. Karina of Lifting Pins and Needles here on YT has done a sew along for this. Looks super cute and perfect for your weather there.
Thanks so much for your review. I also bought this pattern after seeing Sharon on her channel too. I have a few things on the go at the moment, I then plan to make the dress. Your review has made me take a closer look especially where the facing is concerned. We are heading into spring here in Australia & this will be a lovely addition to my wardrobe. 😊
Sharon really sold it, didn't she? Plus her dress was so cute in that Hawaiian print. Yeah that facing gave me some trouble, but I think that problem is easily solved. And hey, I live in Florida, so I'm always in season whether in the northern or southern hemisphere! I love that!
I'm so glad you took the time to share your make. The facing idea is great. I did get this pattern and made one up in a light gray chambray, but seems frumpy, I need to do it in something blue to feel better in. I hand stitched my facing down, but really want to try your idea and make another one. Thanks again
You could always try juschzzing it up with trim around the neckline or sleeve hem - or both - or color blocking the hem would also be easy. And flattering if you used a brighter color like a blue or pink or even yellow. Or throw it into some blue RIT dye. You could even do an hombre look or tie dye. Options . . . I love options . . .
I have made this dress, and I too had a little bit of a problem with facing, but after I got that to work out, the dress came out well. I love my dress and i will make another one. Your dresses look very nice on you. I really like the first one you made.
Both of your dresses are very lovely, fabrics are beautiful 👍 since we are heading to autumn here in Sweden so I'm starting to sew for colder weather, but this will definitely be on my sewingtable to next spring/summer , have made several Itch to stich patterns, love them all. Happy sewing and stay safe ❤
Sounds great! You could probably adapt the sleeves on this one to make something really cute - just longer sleeves, maybe bishop style, and then wear it with tights and boots. Super cute.
I like both dresses. I did a blouse a while back, (a couple of years ago) that had the same front. I messed it up so bad. Have no idea what I did wrong but it will never be worn. Congratulations on getting yours figured out.
Oh, if I could count the times that's happened to me too. Oh well! Maybe you can salvage it and make some little craft or a skirt or something, at least! You probably got rid of it - I hope you've had some huge successes since then!
Hi, I bought this pattern too. Karina from lifting pins and needles made it. Looks so flatering live the style. I've been sewing my muslin also for about a month taking my time working on it. It's very roomy and I need to size down from a 16 to a 14. Love the style they look really nice to wear every day.
Hi Susan! I think going down one size is become the standard for that dress. But it's really cute - I may make another one. Karina has a fantastic sew-along for it.
Oh, mine too - love the chambray. I guess most of the pattern testers didn't have my problem with the facing so maybe I did it wrong? Still, if you run into trouble you'll have another option. It's certainly faster!
I have this cut, but not yet sewn. The stitching of the facing from the front was a concern. I like the idea of serging... I think that’s the perfect answer! Thanks so much for the review!
Yes I have made this and love the pattern. I didnt have to make any alterations except to the length which I made 2" longer. My only problem is the fabric I made it in...a very fine linen which keeps going into holes near seams under stress arghhhhhhh
Oh no! I was thinking this would be fabulous in linen! And oddly I think I'll be shortening these about an inch - just goes to show that this particular dress looks good on everyone -
Lovely makes Jen! I really love the prints of both. I can't wait to see your finished dress that's on your dress form. I love the mixture of those florals. I have that dress pattern, but I'm nervous to sew it. I've only made easier skirts and tops up to this point for myself.
Thank you so much! Yep, that dress has been a work-in-progress for awhile now. I keep changing it around and ordering more fabric - but I'll tell you what, I really like it so far and I can't wait to share the finished project with you! Don't be afraid of the dress pattern - the instructions are great and there's lots of support online and via the Itch-to-Stitch website. Give it a try - you can do it, piece of cake!
Hey Hales! Thanks! I think Viv found the fabric at Fabric Mart - she sent it because it has a bit of coral in it. It's so soft and comfy, I think challis is a great option for this dress - ❤️
Actually it came from Fabric Wholesale Direct and I have really enjoyed their challis, but it seems like every time I visit now they’re sold out of EVERYthing.☹️
I learned on the big pattern co. , But. I have seen some indie patterns. The first thing I realized was the instructions are usually more in depth. And if you need help they help. Most a So have a free pattern to try so you can see for yourself the fit, the design ease, the way the instructions are written.
Good idea Margie - and I am generally not a fan of indies. Total Big 4 loyal fan here - mainly because I'm cheap and hate taping pieces of paper together. I need to make a video about why I always stick with the Big 4. Great idea to try a free one first if you're going for an indie - that way you can get a feel for all those things you mentioned.
Same as you, I've always sewed the Big 4. Indie patterns are patterns made by "independent" companies, designers who build a company putting out their own patterns. PDF's are just the format they come in. These days, they'll save the pattern in PDF format on your computer, and you have to print out all the pages and then tape them together to get the same thing you'd get on printed tissue with the Big 4. It's a pain! There are ways you can send them to a copy shop and get them printed on one big sheet of paper (like the pattern tissue) but it gets expensive. Plus those independent patterns are much higher priced for those of us in the US who can get Big 4 patterns for so cheap, usually $1.99 on sale for everything but Vogue and only $4.99 or $5.99 for that. I'm still a loyal Big 4 fan. I know there are a ton of "indie" pattern lovers out there, but I guess it's just habit, I prefer the stuff I grew up with. Hope that helps and welcome!
Today in Jen's Sewing Room thanks for that explanation. Wow, our patterns are normally around $15- $20, or $30 ( or more) for Vogue. I usually wait for a sale usually down to 3 for $ 20 or something like that. You guys over there are so lucky! Sewing is an expensive hobby here. Then there’s the fabric, $15-30 or more a meter.
Oh Jen you look so breezy in the rayon challis! You look SKINNY!! I am super impressed that you got that sewn up so quickly, and you’re a peach to mention my name. The chambray is darling also. Over here clapping for your cute dresses!!👏👏
Oh man, I hope you're feeling better. You look better on IG! Praying for total and complete healing! Skinny? Well, I wouldn't go right to skinny but I will say that I'm working on it. S-l-o-w going (gah this aging thing is for the birds!). Jane Gilson said I should shorten the hems and I did that straightaway. That challis is so comfy! thank you thank you thank you again ❤️😘🌺Miss you tons!
You and me both. Seriously! I tried this one because I saw it on SharonSews channel and she's a friend. But I'm always looking for some Big4 version of whatever it is. And ok this is so strange because I'm wearing the chambray/denim version of this very dress right now. Weird!
Do you mean "edge stitching" instead of "stitching in the ditch"? I would have done edge stitching around the inside of the neckline. If I have trouble getting facing to lie flat even after edge stitching, I stitch the facing the front part of the garment together with top stitching or invisible hand stitches. Invisible hand stitches catch a few threads every half inch and you cannot see the invisible hand stitches on the right side of the garment.
Hi Liz! No, I meant stitching in the ditch. I did edge stitch the neckline. And actually I hand stitched the facing at one point. The problem (which I don't think I described very well) was that the facing piece was actually smaller than the bodice - so although my stitching in the ditch caught the facing nicely, when I went to press it I had extra fabric in the bodice. I'm not sure why that happened - I'm sure I did something wrong. On the rayon dress, I just edge stitched the facing, completely avoiding having to stitch in the ditch. That's usually what I do anyway - just topstitch about ⅛" from the edge. I always avoid hand stitching if I can.
Mainly sew the big 4 because of cost and also because I can usually find very, very similar designs as the indie patterns. So many of the indies produce very basic designs that are great for beginners and in my sewing journey like a bit more of a challenge. Have bought indie designs when they are different from what the big 4 offer. Have bought this dress pattern because of the more interesting front and pockets.
I totally get it - in fact, I was thinking today about making a video about why I'm opposed to indie patterns in general. I completely agree with you in that so many of them are so basic. And when you're paying $10+ and then have to print them out, it just seems like a lot. Especially when you can grab a big 4 for $1.99 on sale! This one did catch my eye mainly for the pockets (like you). I hear all the time that indies are great for fit - but then if you know your way around a pattern generally speaking, that doesn't count for much. So basically, you read my mind! 😁
Are you a loyal Big 4 Sewist? Have you tried any indie patterns? What's your favorite?
ME TOO. That's it, so many people have commented about it that I'm just going to make a video about the Big 4 vs. indies! I'm not a fan either - I just really liked this dress when I saw it on Sharon's channel. Pretty much every other indie pattern I see that I like, I know I can either duplicate or have a Big 4 version of it. I want to support those in the sewing industry, but maybe we should leave the indies to those who can't get Big 4 patterns for $1.99 -
Lovely versions, love the prints. I was a tester and made 2. These are my $0.02. Block fusing the interfacing on the facings will prevent them shrinking vertically. Some fabrics react to the adhesive more than others. Your stitching was perfect inside when you stitched in the ditch because the seam allowance the facing was folded in was 3/8” and the seam allowance on the princess seams was 1/2”. That means that the folded edge of the facing was a tad bigger and would protrude over the seam when stitching in the ditch. Most patterns don’t change the seam allowance and use the same, thus causing areas that are not caught on the inside. I actually hand sewed one of mine down because it was also an option and I enjoy watching a movie while I hand sew 😊. I also have more plans for this pattern 👍🏼.
Thanks Karina! You might have noticed that I linked you in the description box so everyone would be able to find your sewalong, which was wonderfully comprehensive. I've also gone back and added a card in the video to link to yours. I loved both your dresses too!
My stitch-in-the-ditch sewing was perfect the first time, but the trouble in general wasn't with missing the facing edges or vertical stretch in the facing. It was that once stitched, there was more fabric on the right side and it wouldn't press flat and even with the facing - kind of like the facing was smaller than the bodice piece, so there was bunching and extra fabric on the outside. Like I said, it's probably the interfacing I used, which was a woven cotton, along with the curved edge of the princess seam. I always turn under edges less than the seam allowance when I'm finishing an inside edge (waistbands in particular) for the very reason you stated, which usually solves the problem of sewing blind from the right side and making sure you catch all the facing edges.
Apparently others here and there have had this problem too with this pattern, but everyone finds their own way in the end. It's nice that the instructions gives you the option for hand stitching. I actually did that the second time and still ran into the problem of having more bodice than facing. The third time was the charm! But this was a simple problem that ended up being easy to fix. I love the dress, especially the pockets and the way they're constructed, I'll probably make at least one more. Thanks for your input - always great to hear an opinion from another experienced sewer, especially pattern testers like you and Sharon. ❤️
I love Itch to Stitch patterns, I haven't got this one as I'm not a dress person. Karina of Lifting Pins and Needles here on YT has done a sew along for this. Looks super cute and perfect for your weather there.
You know, I was thinking about how she did a sew-along for this dress and completely forgot to mention it! Thanks! I'll add it to the description box.
Thanks so much for your review. I also bought this pattern after seeing Sharon on her channel too.
I have a few things on the go at the moment, I then plan to make the dress. Your review has made me take a closer look especially where the facing is concerned. We are heading into spring here in Australia & this will be a lovely addition to my wardrobe. 😊
Sharon really sold it, didn't she? Plus her dress was so cute in that Hawaiian print. Yeah that facing gave me some trouble, but I think that problem is easily solved. And hey, I live in Florida, so I'm always in season whether in the northern or southern hemisphere! I love that!
Thank you Jen for an honest review and highlighting the difficulties.
Glad it was helpful!
Hay Jen. Great review & both your dresses look wonderful on you :) I have not sewn this pattern. Thanku for sharing. x
Oh thank you! You'll have to give it a try in one of those darling prints you have.
@@TodayinJensSewingRoom Thanku lovely. :)
I love those type of dresses that you can just throw on! They look great on you!
Oh thank you!
I'm so glad you took the time to share your make. The facing idea is great. I did get this pattern and made one up in a light gray chambray, but seems frumpy, I need to do it in something blue to feel better in. I hand stitched my facing down, but really want to try your idea and make another one. Thanks again
You could always try juschzzing it up with trim around the neckline or sleeve hem - or both - or color blocking the hem would also be easy. And flattering if you used a brighter color like a blue or pink or even yellow. Or throw it into some blue RIT dye. You could even do an hombre look or tie dye. Options . . . I love options . . .
I have made this dress, and I too had a little bit of a problem with facing, but after I got that to work out, the dress came out well. I love my dress and i will make another one. Your dresses look very nice on you. I really like the first one you made.
I'm glad to hear I wasn't the only one who had trouble - but it's a relatively minor problem easily solved. I'm glad you like yours too.
What a great dress. Looks great with the white tennis shoes! Love both dresses.
❤️😘❤️
Great review, thanks so much! I love the prints you used especially the chambray.
Thanks so much! I I love the chambray - sitting here right now wearing it 😉
Both of your dresses are very lovely, fabrics are beautiful 👍
since we are heading to autumn here in Sweden so I'm starting to sew for colder weather, but this will definitely be on my sewingtable to next spring/summer , have made several Itch to stich patterns, love them all. Happy sewing and stay safe ❤
Sounds great! You could probably adapt the sleeves on this one to make something really cute - just longer sleeves, maybe bishop style, and then wear it with tights and boots. Super cute.
I got the pattern, haven’t had a chance to make it, but happy to see it on you, it’s a fantastic shape and wonderful pattern, sounds like.
Thanks so much 😊
I like both dresses.
I did a blouse a while back, (a couple of years ago) that had the same front. I messed it up so bad. Have no idea what I did wrong but it will never be worn. Congratulations on getting yours figured out.
Oh, if I could count the times that's happened to me too. Oh well! Maybe you can salvage it and make some little craft or a skirt or something, at least! You probably got rid of it - I hope you've had some huge successes since then!
New patterns are such fun.
Definitely!
Hi, I bought this pattern too. Karina from lifting pins and needles made it. Looks so flatering live the style.
I've been sewing my muslin also for about a month taking my time working on it. It's very roomy and I need to size down from a 16 to a 14.
Love the style they look really nice to wear every day.
Hi Susan! I think going down one size is become the standard for that dress. But it's really cute - I may make another one. Karina has a fantastic sew-along for it.
I like both of your makes. However, like you, the blue is my favorite. Thanks for the facing tip. I think that is how I will do mine.
Oh, mine too - love the chambray. I guess most of the pattern testers didn't have my problem with the facing so maybe I did it wrong? Still, if you run into trouble you'll have another option. It's certainly faster!
Fun dresses! Thanks for your review of the Celeste dress. I may have to order it.
You should! It's a great pattern.
First and I've been wondering exactly what the pattern had in it! Love this!!
Yay! Thank you!
I have this cut, but not yet sewn. The stitching of the facing from the front was a concern. I like the idea of serging... I think that’s the perfect answer! Thanks so much for the review!
I hope it helps. It sure made it easier for me!
Yes I have made this and love the pattern. I didnt have to make any alterations except to the length which I made 2" longer. My only problem is the fabric I made it in...a very fine linen which keeps going into holes near seams under stress arghhhhhhh
Oh no! I was thinking this would be fabulous in linen! And oddly I think I'll be shortening these about an inch - just goes to show that this particular dress looks good on everyone -
Cute dresses, Jen! Love the fabric Viv gave you :) I don’t have this pattern so cannot comment on it. Take care, and be safe.
Thank you! You too!
Lovely makes Jen! I really love the prints of both. I can't wait to see your finished dress that's on your dress form. I love the mixture of those florals. I have that dress pattern, but I'm nervous to sew it. I've only made easier skirts and tops up to this point for myself.
Thank you so much! Yep, that dress has been a work-in-progress for awhile now. I keep changing it around and ordering more fabric - but I'll tell you what, I really like it so far and I can't wait to share the finished project with you!
Don't be afraid of the dress pattern - the instructions are great and there's lots of support online and via the Itch-to-Stitch website. Give it a try - you can do it, piece of cake!
Hi Jen, I haven't tried any of these patterns yet so it is good to see it in action. I love the pop of pink on you.
Hey Hales! Thanks! I think Viv found the fabric at Fabric Mart - she sent it because it has a bit of coral in it. It's so soft and comfy, I think challis is a great option for this dress - ❤️
Actually it came from Fabric Wholesale Direct and I have really enjoyed their challis, but it seems like every time I visit now they’re sold out of EVERYthing.☹️
Both dresses look good! I haven't made it myself but it may be in my future.
You should! It's so comfy to wear, easy to sew - all around a great pattern.
I really liked the blue. You do a lovely job.
Thank you! 😊
I learned on the big pattern co. , But. I have seen some indie patterns. The first thing I realized was the instructions are usually more in depth. And if you need help they help. Most a
So have a free pattern to try so you can see for yourself the fit, the design ease, the way the instructions are written.
Good idea Margie - and I am generally not a fan of indies. Total Big 4 loyal fan here - mainly because I'm cheap and hate taping pieces of paper together. I need to make a video about why I always stick with the Big 4. Great idea to try a free one first if you're going for an indie - that way you can get a feel for all those things you mentioned.
Beautiful dresses. I miss vivmom.
I do too. She's doing well, though!
Helpful review. I’m just about to cut it out. I’ve always bought the big four. I didn’t know about PDFs. What’s an indie pattern? New subscriber.
Same as you, I've always sewed the Big 4. Indie patterns are patterns made by "independent" companies, designers who build a company putting out their own patterns. PDF's are just the format they come in. These days, they'll save the pattern in PDF format on your computer, and you have to print out all the pages and then tape them together to get the same thing you'd get on printed tissue with the Big 4. It's a pain! There are ways you can send them to a copy shop and get them printed on one big sheet of paper (like the pattern tissue) but it gets expensive. Plus those independent patterns are much higher priced for those of us in the US who can get Big 4 patterns for so cheap, usually $1.99 on sale for everything but Vogue and only $4.99 or $5.99 for that.
I'm still a loyal Big 4 fan. I know there are a ton of "indie" pattern lovers out there, but I guess it's just habit, I prefer the stuff I grew up with. Hope that helps and welcome!
Today in Jen's Sewing Room thanks for that explanation. Wow, our patterns are normally around $15- $20, or $30 ( or more) for Vogue. I usually wait for a sale usually down to 3 for $ 20 or something like that. You guys over there are so lucky! Sewing is an expensive hobby here. Then there’s the fabric, $15-30 or more a meter.
Oh Jen you look so breezy in the rayon challis! You look SKINNY!! I am super impressed that you got that sewn up so quickly, and you’re a peach to mention my name. The chambray is darling also. Over here clapping for your cute dresses!!👏👏
Oh man, I hope you're feeling better. You look better on IG! Praying for total and complete healing!
Skinny? Well, I wouldn't go right to skinny but I will say that I'm working on it. S-l-o-w going (gah this aging thing is for the birds!).
Jane Gilson said I should shorten the hems and I did that straightaway. That challis is so comfy! thank you thank you thank you again ❤️😘🌺Miss you tons!
Give me the big 4 any day. I like a bargain. However the indie patterns are nice but I can get something similar and switch it up.
You and me both. Seriously! I tried this one because I saw it on SharonSews channel and she's a friend. But I'm always looking for some Big4 version of whatever it is. And ok this is so strange because I'm wearing the chambray/denim version of this very dress right now. Weird!
Do you mean "edge stitching" instead of "stitching in the ditch"?
I would have done edge stitching around the inside of the neckline.
If I have trouble getting facing to lie flat even after edge stitching, I stitch the facing the front part of the garment together with top stitching or invisible hand stitches. Invisible hand stitches catch a few threads every half inch and you cannot see the invisible hand stitches on the right side of the garment.
Hi Liz! No, I meant stitching in the ditch. I did edge stitch the neckline. And actually I hand stitched the facing at one point. The problem (which I don't think I described very well) was that the facing piece was actually smaller than the bodice - so although my stitching in the ditch caught the facing nicely, when I went to press it I had extra fabric in the bodice. I'm not sure why that happened - I'm sure I did something wrong.
On the rayon dress, I just edge stitched the facing, completely avoiding having to stitch in the ditch. That's usually what I do anyway - just topstitch about ⅛" from the edge. I always avoid hand stitching if I can.
Had the same problem with front facing and had to hand stitch.
Yeah not the worst thing that could have happened, but fortunately an easy problem to solve. It's still a great dress.
good video hugs from pam
Thanks so much Pam!
Mainly sew the big 4 because of cost and also because I can usually find very, very similar designs as the indie patterns. So many of the indies produce very basic designs that are great for beginners and in my sewing journey like a bit more of a challenge. Have bought indie designs when they are different from what the big 4 offer. Have bought this dress pattern because of the more interesting front and pockets.
I totally get it - in fact, I was thinking today about making a video about why I'm opposed to indie patterns in general. I completely agree with you in that so many of them are so basic. And when you're paying $10+ and then have to print them out, it just seems like a lot. Especially when you can grab a big 4 for $1.99 on sale! This one did catch my eye mainly for the pockets (like you). I hear all the time that indies are great for fit - but then if you know your way around a pattern generally speaking, that doesn't count for much.
So basically, you read my mind! 😁