Hi Everyone,
Its Amanda back on the Lamazi blog today and have I got a treat for you!!!
When Liana asked me if I would like to write a blog post this month I was delighted and quickly went about browsing the website.
As soon as I saw this fabric I knew it was the one as it is quite possibly the most beautiful rayon I have ever seen. The fabric is Summerdress Dreams Flare by Art Gallery Fabrics and is so summery and bright.
Once I had chosen the fabric I had a couple of choices of pattern in my mind but after discussing it with Liana we decided a pattern that didn’t interrupt the print would be best to showcase it in all its glory. I think my choice of the Sew Over It Penny Dress was perfect as you can really see the print in the full circle skirt.
This fabric was beautiful to sew with but is relatively fine and so I made sure to use a fine needle in my machine which avoided any pulls in the fabric and I have to say it behaved incredibly well.
The Sew Over It Penny Dress is perfect for the summer and lends itself so well to a rayon which gives the skirt such beautiful drape but also avoids any bulkiness at the waistline due to its gathered nature.
I have to admit the standard length of the Penny Dress is too long for my preference and I ended up cutting about 5-6 inches off the hem. I made a size 8 and used 2.5 metres of this fabric for my size.
Due to this fabric being on the lighter side I reduced the foot pressure slightly on my overlocker when sewing to ensure that there was no puckering and this seemed to work well. I didn’t need to do anything to my sewing machine though.
I was tempted not to sew buttonholes on to the top portion of the dress as I can easily get the dress on over my head without unfastening them. However, I have to admit I do like a buttonhole and also thought it would just give the dress a nicer finish. I used some 13 mm smartie buttons that I had in my stash. These buttons are my particular favourites and I use them on everything as they come in a variety of colours and have a matte finish which I love.
I have pulled the elastic quite tight around the waist to give it a really cinched in look and to avoid the dress looking top heavy due to its loose fitted bodice. I have also worn it with a slim red belt which I think compliments it perfectly.
The Penny Dress is so lovely to wear as it is feminine but at the same time a comfortable dress that covers you in all the right places so you don’t feel the need to adjust it in any way whilst wearing.
Since finishing the dress I have worn it a couple of times and received compliments each time and it was perfect to wear to a summer party that I attended at the weekend.
This fabric is even more stunning in real life than it appears in the images and I am so pleased with my finished dress which I am sure will be in constant rotation throughout the summer.
Until next time.
Big hugs.
Amanda xx
P.S. Both fabric and a pattern are available on Lamazi Fabrics website. Liana is also kindly putting together Sewing Kits for this dress to make it easy to replicate if you liked my version of Penny Dress. Watch the space they will be available soon.
