I meant to do this refashion tutorial back in July, I really did. But I got part way in and the sleeves weren’t working and it was just time to set it aside before I trashed it. I’m glad I did, because I really like the way it turned out.
The original item was a clearance XXL dress. I liked the lace and the exposed zipper in the back, but as you can see just from looking at it on Molly, it was a sack on my frame. I originally wanted to keep it as a dress in my size, but that’s where I ran into issues and put it aside. When I picked it back up this month I decided to go sleeveless, and I do like it.
So I started by cutting the dress apart on the seams, discarding the elastic that was originally in the waist.
I used the bodice lining piece from my Colorblock V-Neck as a guide to cut the bodice down to size.
I put the bodice back together in the same way as I did the V-Neck dress as well – armholes, then side seams. The I cut the skirt down to top length and gathered it to fit the bodice. I sewed in place with a zig-zag stitch.
Then I cut some thin elastic that was 1 1/2″ less in length than around my under bust, sewed it into a loop, and sewed it around the waist while stretching it to the same length as the fabric. This cinched in the waist a little more for a fitted look.
And then I let Tater take pictures of me (since he cooperated while I took pictures of him for the Sewing for Kindergarten post I’ll share next week).
So in the end it was pretty easy, after I figured out what I wanted to do with the oversized dress!
yvonne
What a cool idea! I really appreciate the way you think outside the box. You have a lot of talent and great ideas. We recently moved out of the country, I left behind a lot of my fabrics and sewing things in storage, so I am starting anew at collecting ideas and tutorials of things I like and can do as a hobby. There is still a lot left to be desired here, since there are so many things that I am unable to get here. I have my sewing machine, but no cutting mat– can’t even find one. Being in the States you take a lot for granted, cause we have so much as our fingertips. So I appreciate the really neat ideas and tutorials, they give me something to think about and encouragement, that I can do this! Now I just need to figure out what I’m going to do about my Website. Thanks for the great posts.
Connie G.
Hi! I just found this web site and I’m going to start following it, there are a lot of great ideas. I especially like the
one for the slippers.
Now, on to your question about a sewing mat. You asked the question a loooong time ago, so I hope someone
suggested use a card board box. I’ve done that, but if you sew a lot, it won’t last long. I hope that helps a little.
Connie
Jessica McLard
Great job, that is really cute!!
brenda
what a difference. I think it is your best. must have been a challenge getting those xxl armholes to turn out so nice and the fit is great.
louise
Looks great! I have a dress I’ve been meaning to do something similar too, but haven’t! Hopefully this will inspire me to do mine!