I recently finished a denim dress using a Built by Wendy pattern, Simplicity 3835.
I cut the fabric the length of the dress but used the sleeves and ties for the mini-dress. To cut down on the bulk of the denim and spice up the overall look, I used a contrasting fabric for the facing of the arm ties and the pockets.
I also cut bias binding from the contrasting fabric and applied it around the zipper opening and at the hem.
It's a very easy dress to wear and lots of fun.
I cut the fabric the length of the dress but used the sleeves and ties for the mini-dress. To cut down on the bulk of the denim and spice up the overall look, I used a contrasting fabric for the facing of the arm ties and the pockets.
I also cut bias binding from the contrasting fabric and applied it around the zipper opening and at the hem.
It's a very easy dress to wear and lots of fun.
That dress is amazing! I love all the extra touches you added.
ReplyDeleteThe sleeve tabs are adorable. I really need to find some denim to make a shift or jumper like this.
ReplyDeleteAmazing dress, I feel inspired!
ReplyDeletehi! i got my pattern today!
ReplyDeletei was wondering,how did you apply the bias binding around the zipper?
did you bias bind the seams first and then sewed on the zipper?
i like what you did and might just do it with mine!
thanks! :)
Hi Melissa,
ReplyDeleteThanks for visiting! (I answered on your blog too but I thought these notes would be helpful to have here as reference for others.)
I referred to instructions for a "Decorative exposed zipper" in the Reader's Digest Complete Guide to Sewing. In the directions there is not a center back seam so I had to fudge it a little. In the directions, the zipper is applied and then ribbon is sewn on. I did it differently because I wanted the bias to cover the raw edge.
It's been a while, but I think I cut away some of the fabric because the denim was so thick. Then with right sides together, I pinned the bias strip around the opening for the zipper and machine stitched in place. Then I folded the bias strip around the raw edge and pressed. Next I would have basted the zipper in place and finally top stitched it down. It wasn't very easy so if you're a beginner you may not want to attempt it. I do like the result and mostly did it to show off the red zipper. However, I haven't attempted it again.
I just discovered you blog via Sew Mama Sew!
ReplyDeleteI think your zip idea is lovely. I've seen lacy zips on Etsy so that could also make an alternative decorateive finish.