NEW PATTERN........coming soon!

When it comes to traditional children's fashion, the bodice dress has maintained a steady popularity over the years.  Why?  Like so many other simple styles, a bodice dress is flattering, easy to construct and fit, and offers a wide range of adaptations.

The Bodice Dress pattern contains four interchangeable views.  The bodices are lined for quick and easy construction.  Slight curve on bodice front and darts in back ensure proper fit.

From tailored and summer-simple to elegant and formal, the variations that can be created from this one pattern are endless. Fabric suggestions include denim, chambray, broadcloth, piqué, plissé, twill, flannel, poplin, linen, batiste, voile, dimity, organdy, seersucker, wool, corduroy and velveteen.

available August 2008

DRAFTING LONG SLEEVES

Trudy Horne's regular column in the July/August Creative Needle Magazine contains valuable information on converting a short sleeve to a long one. Detailed instructions and illustrations show how to draft a long sleeve from your favorite short sleeve (straight or puffed) pattern.  The article also includes instructions for drafting, constructing and adding a buttoned cuff and explains the reasons for having this treatment at the lower edge.

We know that many of you begin fall and back-to-school sewing in the summer (or at least start thinking about it). We have two patterns that are perfect for fall.......easy to make and very adaptable to embellishments such as appliqué, smocking, hand or machine embroidery. 

Denim, twill, corduroy or piqué are just some of the many wonderful fall fabrics to choose from.

Our Mary Jane Jumper & Blouse pattern, left, and our Will Jumpsuit & Shirt for boys, right.

Blooming Bow

This embroidered piece was used in 1994 for the first installment of "A Basic Guide to Color & Embroidery", a column by Trudy Horne for Creative Needle Magazine. The column continues today, with the current May 2008 issue featuring Basic Guide article No. 85.

Start by tracing embroidery design onto fabric with a 3B soft graphite pencil - it will wash away away easily with soap and water.

The bow knot is satin stitch, flowers are lazy daisies and French knots. Trailing vine is a combination of chain stitch, lazy daisies and French knots. Outline stitch and lazy daisies are used for stem and leaves.  Two shades of yellow on the bow add interest and depth.

See our Collar Package #1on the Patterns page of this website for the  embroidery design, instructions and more.

Shoulder Ribbon Hanna

a surprisingly simple way to embellish a garment 

Our Hanna's Sundress & Pinafore pattern has been featured often in Creative Needle Magazine, each time demonstrating  the different ways to interpret this simple pattern.  In the January 2008 issue,  two Hanna's Sundresses, one dressy, the other casual,  showcase a vintage method of ribbon ornamentation in which wide ribbon is woven through buttonholes stitched along the yokes (illustration, right).  The article begins on page 16 and includes all the details!

Swiss batiste and satin ribbon can be used to create elegant spring finery or flower girl dresses. For an even dressier look, add gathered wide eyelet for shoulder and hem ruffle.

Note: smocking on skirt tops is optional.