Details and Heirlooms

As I mentioned in my previous post, lately I've been trying to slow down and pay attention to small details in my sewing. I tend to rush through my sewing, wanting to get to the end result and then being unhappy with what I've made because I was going to fast. On several occasions I've decided I need a new bag or skirt two days before or sometimes the day of some particular event and making something of "Forever 21" quality (cute if you don't look too close and liable to fall apart upon first washing or sometimes first wearing).

I am currently working on my 3rd dress, and I've decided to really try to make something of quality, that can be passed down to my daughter and granddaughters (or sons and grandsons, if they lean that way...I can be open-minded). I envision a dress that will be folded up in tissue and placed in a gorgeous box. I want to make garments that can still be worn and cherished later on down the line. For me, that means pouring over every little detail, focusing on quality construction in the seams and choosing classic patterns. It really helps that I have a somewhat retro aesthetic when it comes to the line of a dress - there are certain shapes that I think will be wearable, flattering and beautiful for a long time to come.

Right now, I am sewing up McCall's 4826 out of what I think is a cotton/linen blend in a really cute strawberry print and lined with a white on white polka dot. (I am living in Japan and buying my fabric here...since I don't read Japanese and speak only a tiny bit, I am just guessing on the material...). It's a halter bodice with a gathered a-line skirt.

I'm really trying to make this something that will last repeated wearings and stand the test of time, so I am going all out with the seam finishes. I'm even doing the slip stitching it calls for, even though it's a pain in the butt. In the past I would have either fused this or skipped it all together. No body's gonna see it, right?

This is definitely slowing down my sewing time, but I feel good about it. I am thinking of covering that seam with some hem tape, but I can't stand the thought of all that hand-sewing getting covered up. The waistline is gathered, as is the bodice at the bottom in liu of breast darts for shaping...and that was a fun task. I had thread everywhere!

I'm about 75% finished with the dress. The front top contrast band will get a bow added to the center, I need to install the zipper, finish slip-stitching and hem the dress. It's a little long, so I may end up taking it up a couple of inches at the bottom. I can't wait to wear it. Instead of being cutesy, I think that the fabric print and colors make it casually elegant.