Couldn’t help it, I had to make another Wild Flower. This time, I was inspired by this pretty knit I found at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store. I turned the pattern into a floral maxi dress after loving how my first Wild Flower turned out.
I love most everything floral, how about you? But when it comes to apparel fabric, I think florals can be tricky. I loved the feminine, romantic print of this floral, and I also liked the sophistication that the black background brings. I can never remember to memorize the labels on the fabric bolts, plus I was shopping with kids, so I’m not positive on this fabric blend, but it feels like it has some spandex in it, giving it a nice slinky drape. It does stretch more when worn, though, so I had to stitch together the deep V in the bodice a couple inches because it was pulling down so far once on. (I skipped the modesty panel again.)
So, as you can see, I modified the top pattern into a maxi dress. This pattern is perfect for this modification – let me show you how easy it is!
Start by studying the pattern to determine a straightforward place to measure the length. For the Wild Flower pattern, there is a clear marking on the pattern at the underbust. Measure from your underbust down to the length you’d like the dress to be. I measured all the way to the floor so that the dress would be nice and long (I actually measured on myself, not on my taller decorative dress form, but you get the point). Add length if you will be hemming. I didn’t hem the skirt or the sleeves of this particular dress.
You will need to purchase additional fabric than the allotment noted on the pattern. I purchased three yards, I believe. Now, lay your pattern piece on your fabric and shift it up until you have enough length to match the measurement you just determined. Measure from the underbust line to the desired length and make a mark.
Now, cut around the pattern and gently slope the pattern to extend beyond the pattern length all the way down to your mark. Curve in slightly – if you were to continue along the A-line slope of the skirt pattern, you’d have an awful lot of fabric around your ankles by the time you cut all the way to the floor length. You could do this, but I opted for a slimmer cut (not fitted, just not super flared).
After you’ve cut your new skirt, you will need to do the same for the back piece. Find the underbust marking on the pattern and follow the same process to cut out the fabric according to the pattern piece, but with an extended length. Sew up the dress following the pattern instructions!
Yay! Romantic, floral maxi dress done! I love it! What sort of spring crafting are you up to?
Comments & Reviews
delia says
Stunning! You and the dress!
Elle Ay Esse says
I agree with the above comments – I’m not a floral person. But this is simply stunning. You did an amazing job and I love the colors! Gorgeous!
Mary L says
As always, you inspire me to run to Jo Ann’s and start sewing something new. This dress looks very nice on you and you do have a talent for choosing fabrics that look good on you! I don’t. Maybe you could teach us more on what to look for in fabrics . Although the patterns do suggest what to use, I don’t always see what would look good on me.
Carolyn says
You’re so gorgeous and talented! Lucky girl. 🙂 I love these sewing projects you post. They motivate me to pull out that sewing machine of mine and create. I just wish my projects would turn out as perfectly!
Olga Becker says
It’s so beautiful! Right on trend too. 🙂
Jess says
beautiful photos and dress! amazing. I love the floral-I am a huge fan of florals!!
Ashley S. says
This is lovely!!!! I am just adoring that fabric. Thanks so much for the tutorial. I have yet to make something for myself since baby was born, but everytime I see your posts it makes me just want to go for it. Thank you 🙂
Andrea says
You are just amazing and stunning!!! This tutorial is fabulous!! This fabric is wonderful!
kristin says
I’m not sure where I stand with florals. I love the June in Cream from the Scrumptious Line by Bonnie and Camille (LOVE the whole line–gotta check it out–the vintagy paisleys!1!) but sometimes florals can be so Grandma. I am with you on the floral on black! This dress looks so pretty on you. A really beautiful print and style. I also know I do accept florals as I purchased for our last home two swivel chairs in a very large bold floral with a black background. Still love the chairs. It just depends I guess!