Muslin Making Weekend

Simplicity 2638 and Butterick 5317...well that was the plan. Butterick 5317 was the only one I was able to complete. Instead of making both muslins then the dresses - I went right to dress making after fitting the muslin.

Pattern Description: Butterick 5317 Slightly flared dresses A, B, below mid-knee have contrast, fitted, lined bodice with or without cap sleeves, empire waistline, pleats, side seam pockets and left side zipper closure. B: contrast hem band.

Pattern Sizing: BB(8-10-12-14) I made a combination of 12 and 14

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes

Were the instructions easy to follow? no problems with the instructions.

Fabric Used: Stretch Cotton Poplin..Stylized Mums from FabricMart


Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I added a lining to the skirt portion, it was a bit see-thru and I didn't want to mess with a slip when wearing this. When I cut the muslin I used a straight size 14 to fit around my torso. After the muslin was basted I realized the straps were too far apart. When I cut the fabric I used the size 12 for the straps. Speaking of the straps...I made a major error sewing the tops of them together. I attached both from straps to each other and both back straps together. When it was time to try it on for fit I realised my mistake and had a good laugh. I need to remember to take pictures while I sew.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I'm definately going to sew this again in a very light cotton lawn a little larger (without a zipper)to use as a cover-up and one a little more fitted (like this one was supposed to be).

Conclusion: Initially I wasn't sure about this dress. I'm glad I wore it to work with a very light 3/4 sleeve sweater - it was very comfortable and I received a ton of compliments and three "I want one!"

I'm not sure if the difference in fit from the muslin to the actuall dress is because of the stretch in the fabric or operator error. It ended up having more ease than I planned on (about an inch!) and after the zipper was in I realized I could easily get this on without opening it.

I truly hate pictures of myself...big giant dork fish, but here's one of me in the dress: