The Kwik Sew Dress 3049 & Ebb Top as a Dress

 I mentioned this pattern in my last post.  I couldn't find it on the Kwik Sew website so I supposed it is OOP.  I've had this in the stash for some time and wish I hadn't waited to so to try it out.  I know bias can be a bit &*^%#$ to work with, but so far, I'm happy with the end project(s).

This is 100% cotton that someone gave me 7 yds total.  I had used it for some community service sewing projects and I thought I didn't like the print.  However, the more I used it, the more it "grew" on me.  I decided it would be good for a "wearable muslin."  I really like it!  I didn't want to have to wear a slip and knew there would be "see-thru" with the light background.  I had picked up some very pale blue batiste for $1/yd a while back.  It felt heavenly.  So, I lined with that.  The pattern calls for lining to the edge so I did as the pattern instructed and all came out fine.  Wore it to church yesterday morning and really like the way it feels.

While I was feeling good about the pattern, I pulled out this rayon that feels so nice (also some that I was given - by a different sewest).  I did not line this one but used the same instruction to finish the neckline and armscyes to cut and sew a "one piece facing."  Just a short lining of sorts.  Sorry the photo is blurry.  The red background is a true red.  My monitor is showing more orange. 

Since we have been at or above 100 degrees for the last week or so, cool dresses are welcomed.

Prior to these KS dresses I cut the Lousie Cutting Ebb top as a dress.  Relying on memory (yes, it's dangerous) I think I added 13" to make the dress length.  I had made the top last summer.  This is rayon fabric (purchased at Pursley's), but it has more body than a challis.  I did take in the sleeves and tapered the bust/waist area in a bit to give it more shape.  Prior to that, it resembled more of a potato sack.  I believe it was all due to the hand of the fabric.  Once I took it in, I liked it much better. 

Another cool, summer dress!