African Print Dress No. 1 Butterick B6897 – Modified

 

Hello beautiful and crafty people.  My husband went out of the country a few months ago, and brought me back some really great African fabrics when he returned.  While he was there, we were able to get on a video chat which allowed me to see the shop and some of the fabrics, and I had a real hand in choosing the fabrics.  They were pulling fabrics and holding them out for me to see them, and it was just delightful.  Although I was trying to hurry because I didn’t want to be too extra.  He had a few female relatives helping me make some selections.  To make a long story, shorter, I chose 6 fabrics, and he came home with a bonus one for me as well. So, joy, joy for me!    My plan is to make something with all of them so he will be inclined to get me more the next time he travels.   He brought me back fabric last year too, but I have not made something with everything he purchased for me.  My plan is to do better this time.

Now, let’s get into this dress. This is Butterick B6897.  Here is the pattern.  Butterick B6897

I started this dress by using a tiered shirt pattern, and then modifying it from that point. The pattern gives 3 shirt styles, with various sleeve lengths.  I chose view B.  I cut a size 20, changed the size of the tiers and then chose some buttons to finish it off. I made a belt, for versatility, but it is cute either way. This dress turned out perfectly, and I can see myself wearing it repeatedly. I especially love the length and will continue to make dresses that are knee length, instead of the maxi and tea length I normally opt for.

Now, of course the fabric is butter.  Working with it was so easy and it was so crisp. I washed it prior to cutting it and it did not shrink at all.  But I guess it is better to wash it first because you never know how long it has been in the shop, what kind of dyes or chemicals may still be on the fabric, or how much shrinkage may take place.  You should always wash your fabrics if you can.   One of the worst experiences is to make something, the fit is perfect, and then wash it and it shrinks substantially and is no longer useful for you.  This is not a good feeling and should be avoided if possible.

That’s a wrap for now, but I can’t wait to show you a new project, pattern, or DIY something.  Thank you for allowing me to share my first make with my African fabric gifted to me by my husband.  Leave a comment and please “Like” if you like.  I love sewing, and I love sharing my projects with you. Also, if you have not subscribed yet, please consider doing so.  You can subscribe below.  Until next time, I will be making my life better, one project at a time, and I hope you do the same.   Thank you for your support.

“Don’t let yesterday use up too much of today.”  Cherokee Proverb