CATARINA DRESS DETAILS
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Pattern: Catarina Dress by Seamwork
Fabric: Art Gallery Floralia Fusion Rayon Challis Stenciled Petals Navy Blue Fabric, HERE
Pattern Alterations:
Minimal alterations were made in the Catarina dress. Initially I cut a size 8 top and blended to a size 10 waist and skirt. But it turned out the size 8 top left a little gaping in the armsyce, and I hate it when my bra shows on the side like that. (Don’t mind straps, just the side bra – yuk). So I had to insert a small dart to fix this after the fact. Next time I will blend between the size 6 to 10.
Secondly, instead of the threading process they teach for the belting loop thread chains, I simply used a little embroidery thread. Hopefully this will stand the test of time – but it just seemed like an easy no-brainer for me.
Pattern Thoughts:
I love love love love love love love this pattern. This dress is absolutely perfect for Summer, and I just know I am going to get so much use out of it! The fit (with the added side dart fix) is perfection. The rayon challis is super lightweight, so I won’t be hot – and the flow and drape of this dress is spot on. I am pretty sure I will make more of these, I simply need to find more fabrics that I love in this fabulous textile that aren’t too sheer. This is a big thumbs up from me!
Techniques This Pattern Can Teach You:
- Sewing with elastic around a seam (instead of making a casing).
- How to sew adjustable straps (using bra strap rings and sliders).
- How to make a thread chain for belt loops.
*And of course other basic sewing essentials – these were simply the ones that go beyond the basics IMO.
Looks fabulous on you, Jess!