Monday, August 18, 2014

Alder Shirtdress Sew-Along Extravaganza

Have you seen the Alder Shirtdress pattern from Grainline Studio? I first saw it on Ginger Makes, where Sonja made two gorgeous versions, and I fell in love. I had to have this dress!

Then I found out that my bff's, Allyson and Laura, were also obsessed with this pattern, and it was official: we had to do a Sew-Along.

Luckily, our mini sew-along is just a week behind the official Grainline Studio Sew-Along, so I've been benefiting from their guidance.

Here are my plans, thus far:

Version 1: A straightforward take on View A. This will hopefully be a wearable muslin, where I work out any fitting issues within the pattern. Since it's designed for a B-cup, I will definitely be doing a Full-Bust Adjustment (following the instructions here). I will also be adding pockets, and possibly tweaking the collar to a Peter Pan style, depending on the fabric.

Version 2: View B, made out of something drape-y, like silk charmeuse. Also adding pockets. Always with the pockets.

Version 3: A v-neck shirt version, a la this post. I think this would be amazing in a chambray.

My plans are ambitious, but after my bike accident last week, they have stalled. Thus far I have....

Alder Shirtdress Pattern

Just an assembled pattern. But hey! That took a really long time. I really wish I had seen this tutorial from Colette or this one from Sewaholic before I started. But I'll be cutting that fabric in no time, I just know it.

You can catch up with Allyson's progress on Wednesday and Laura's on Friday for all the Alder-goodness you can handle!

4 comments :

  1. Can't wait to see your dress! I see that there's a Sew-a-long on the Grainline blog so I'm trying to read all of the tips and tricks. I'm so obsessed with this pattern but way too scared to attempt it! I hope I can summon the courage to give it a try!

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  2. I'm so glad you're making this! It's such a great dress! I'm trying to restrain myself from making a third version... I've got some other stuff to finish up first, but I realllllly want another!!!

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    1. Ahhh, you are my inspiration! I'm definitely going to make at least 3 versions... maybe more. It's just so perfect for the weather in LA! Layer on a cardigan indoors in the air conditioning, and it's all-terrain!

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