Cutting

Using blocks I have created and tweaked for all my designs and sizes. This is a time consuming and backbreaking stage (probably my least favourite) as it's vital cutting is precise for all the stages to work!

Collar

I trim the seam allowance to ensure a lovely smooth curve.

Yoke

This is double sided for a tidy finish.

Insert Collar

Making sure it is positioned absolutely centrally with an equal gap at either end, as this is a focal point on the finished garment.

Turn Collar out and top stitch

To reinforce the collar.

Gathering 

Front piece, including lace, and back piece.

Attach Back Panel

Roll the back piece inside the back yoke 

Pull Back Panel Through

This leaves the seam on the inside, for a neat, seamless, itch free back seam.

Attach Front Panel to Front Yoke

Press and top stitch seam above lace for strength.

Sleeves

Gather top (mid arch) of sleeve. Zig Zag stitch elastic to wrist section.

Attach Sleeve to Bodice

Overlock edges AND reinforce with running stitch as a stress point.

Ruffle Hem

Gather and adjust to correct width.

Attach Ruffle

Stitch to front and back panels.

Side Seams

Overlock and running stitch both sides from wrists, along sleeves and down to ruffle hemline, remembering to insert size and washing labels. 

Hems

Double fold and sew sleeve and hem seam

Finishing Touch - Buttons

Machine sew two buttonholes and hand stitch buttons, judging position by eye.

et Voila!

Sewing complete! As I Iron, I check over all the seams and snip any loose threads. Press collar into place.

Off They Go...

Fold and wrap in tissue paper and string. Pack into eco-friendly parcels ready to be posted!