A True Skater Dress
Overview:
When Kelli of True Bias and Amanda of Pop of Neutral reached out with the great idea to connect sewists who also skate I was thrilled! Who knew there were so many of us? They suggested that we all make an outfit for sewing be it a 80s short set, a unitard or a skater dress. Check out all of the other makes using the #sewandroll hashtag.
Skill Level*: 1/Novice
Sewing Time: 2 hours
https://videopress.com/v/ujPzQX5p?controls=false&preloadContent=metadata
Practicing spread eagle
Pattern:
As usual I had the great idea to make a dress the day of a skating meetup so I needed something quick and easy. McCalls 6754 came to mind because I've made it several times and know I can knock it out in a couple of hours.
This pattern has just four pattern pieces, although I added pockets so that makes five. Other than the front bodice darts you're just attaching the pieces and finishing hems with this dress. (Unless you add pockets like me). The skirt is very full and perfect for twirling.
The only things I hate is that the finished measurements are provided. I cut an XL, but with large length straps because I remember previous issues there. I wish I'd cut a large instead as I do find that this pattern runs large. Or maybe my knits are too stretchy.
Fabric:
This red, white and black liverpool knit is from Fabric Mart. I love the textured, crepe like feel and soft backing of liverpools. Some feel that liverpool (and other double knits) are too heavy for summer makes, but as long as it's sleeveless it works just fine for me - and I'm pretty hot natured.
I didn't have a plan for this project, which is something I vowed I would stop doing, but I love the colors and I'm a sucker for geometric prints. Even though I broke my own rule I'm happy I snagged this fabric because it goes great with my skate setup!
Modifications:
The only modification I made was raising the back neckline a few inches because it is quite low. Sorry I can't be more specific, I really just eyeballed it. I did add inseam pockets because...POCKETS!
Summary:
Love that I can skate in my skater dress. It has all the twirl factor I want for whenever I really learn how to spin.
I return to the dress because it's easy and quick and you get a good result. It does run a little big so definitely go down a size if you're using a knit with 50% stretch or more.
Pattern: McCalls 6754
Pattern Description: Close-fitting and flared tops and dresses have neckline variations, elasticized (seamed) waist, and narrow hems. B: underlined. C and D: bias bodice, and side front seams. Designed for medium weight two-way stretch knits.
Sizing: XS-M, L-XXL
Difficulty: 1/Novice
Fabric Used: Geometric liverpool knit from Fabric Mart Fabrics
Does it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope? Yes
Were the instructions easy to follow? I didn't use them, but yes
Would I sew it again? I'm sure I will
Would I recommend it to others? Yes