Monday, April 4, 2016

Aqua Rose Border Surplice Dress

This sateen rose border print was really popular last year, so we brought it back in two new fun colors! I love it in this minty aqua.

As you can see, there are actually two borders on this fabric! There's a small scale rose border on one selvage, and a big one on the other. This means you can use the different scales for different effects in your garment. For this dress, I decided to use the small border along a puff sleeve and the large border on the skirt. 


The patterns are a combo from my new book: the Surplice Midriff Bodice, the Puff Sleeve, and the All-Around Pleated Skirt. The bodice pieces were all cut from the polka dot portion of the fabric, no borders there.

I have an undying love for puff sleeves!

I also added a little knot-style bow at the bust. To do this, I made two fabric rectangles that were 4" x 12" and then made points at either end. Sew the two rectangles together using a 1/4" seam allowance, leaving a hole to turn right side out. Turn, press, and hand sew the hole closed.

 Tie the piece into a knot and hand stitch to your dress. That's it!
I like this kind of bow because it has a Maryann from Gilligan's Island vibe to me!

I also added a little row of baby rick rack to the hem. (Okay, my mom actually added it. Thanks, Mom!)


This bodice is obviously pretty low-cut, so consider yourself warned! There's also a boatneck bodice that you could swap out in this design if you want more coverage.

This fabric is also available in yellow from Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores.


And if you're looking for last year's grey, I have some in my etsy shop!


15 comments:

  1. I like the way you used the borders, and the mint green is such a refreshing color. I have the gray from last year, and I just might have to buy the mint green. This dress looks great on you, Gertie.

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  2. I like the way you used the borders, and the mint green is such a refreshing color. I have the gray from last year, and I just might have to buy the mint green. This dress looks great on you, Gertie.

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  3. Very pretty and so perfect for Spring!

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  4. I am thinking if doing a similar dress, but with the boat neck bodice, but am unsure if I should get extra fabric (in addition to the recommended amounts listed in your book) to accomodate for the border print in the design. Do you have any advice on how much extra fabric is needed?

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    1. I would probably get about a half yard extra!

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  5. Absolutely gorgeous! I'm making a skirt out of last year's grey.

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  6. Hi Gertie, is there anywhere to buy your fabric from in Australia? Thanks :)

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    1. At the moment these are exclusive to Jo-Ann Fabrics, and they don't ship internationally. But I will be selling some of the designs through my etsy shop and I do ship internationally. I have some of last year's fabrics for sale now, including this fabric with the light grey background.

      https://www.etsy.com/shop/GertieInRoses?ref=hdr_shop_menu

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  7. I also love the shoes. Where did you get them?

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    1. Thanks! They're from Payless!

      https://www.payless.com/womens-krissy-krochet-wedge/76928.html?dwvar_76928_color=ivory#icid=2016-sp03-wom-wedges&infiniteScroll=1&showToggle=1&start=8

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  8. I've been drooling over your designs, both patterns and fabric. I haven't had a chance to go to my local JoAnne's to check out your book. My question is your size range. I'm in the 3X/W24 range. Any hope for me?

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  9. Once again I'm blown away at how completely creatively awesome you are. Inspiring.

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  10. That looks so pretty! Love the fabric with the flowers. Awesome! Best regards, Patricia

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  11. Squeee! Soo cute!!! Thanks for the instructions for the little bow. Somehow it makes the dress for me. :-)

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Thanks for your comments; I read each and every one! xo Gertie

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