If you cannot already tell from my blog theme, I love to sew. I love pretty much anything crafty, but in the past 3 years I have developed in interest in sewing. I have a 3 year old daughter, you put 2 and 2 together. Being that I am a young-ish mom (ok, I'm 33), I am into more modern ways of creating and I discovered magic on earth- digital patterns! I am from a digital design background and created digital scrapbook products for years. Digital patterns were right up my alley!
I used my first digital pattern from a great pattern designer called Foo-Foo Threads (seriously LOVE her quirky and old fashioned style) and I was hooked. I sent an image of my first true creation with her pattern and since then I have been testing patterns. Most recently I have also discovered a brand new digital pattern maker who stems out of Australia and I am also new to testing patterns for her. I was so fortunate to be able to test Fresh Stitch Patterns new creation. She has a classic style that is great for daily wear and has the perfect look for simple dressing. Easy wear, easy to put on and take off and extremely versatile. It is great for preppy styling, but knowing me, I junk it up a little. I’m not classic so I always put a colorful twist or mix up patterns. I can't help it! It's just what I do.
Fresh Stitch patterns released the new Banksia Dress yesterday. While I was testing this dress out, I couldn't help but love the versatility of this pattern. 3 different strap options, 2 bodice options, and 3 skirt options! You could go on and on with the combinations and it can always look different and unique. I tested one style and I couldn't help myself, I went with another style as well. Very much a value for your money.
My first style was to the book like the "B" style in her pattern. The "U" front with elastic straps and the banded bottom. Aw, so sweet. My diva was not in the modeling mood that day. She was in sunglasses. Still a classic beauty. She picked out the style and the fabrics. The best part about making small versions of this dress, is you can do it with smaller pieces of fabric! A yard or less is perfect because it is not a very full skirt. Just enough for a beautiful fit. I even fit a tulle skirt under for modeling.
The second style was the "C" style but I mixed t up by using lace and adding it in one of the tiers. I used all scraps on this version. You know the leftover pieces that are not enough for a full dress? Simply precious when added to a lovely tea party with princess friends.
That's what I did with the Banksia. What can you do? Thank you to Kylie for allowing me to test this pattern and to my sweetie, Esther Rose, for being my model!
