You will need:
Floral Sketch Fat Quarters by Craft Cotton Co x 3
Pattern paper and pattern master
6 x 6” Square Patchwork Ruler
Cutting Mat
Rotary Cutter
Sewing Machine, matching thread and scissors
Step 1:
For this pattern, a 1cm seam allowence (SA) has been used throughout.
Firstly create your pattern using a basic bodice template (these can be found free online if you do not have one). Trace around your bodice blocks onto pattern paper, mark on the darts and notches. Follow the diagram below to create the top shape, mark and cut where the pink lines are, use a tape measure to ensure the patterns pieces match up and remember to add a 1cm SA. If you’re feeling adventurous you could create your own bodice shape.
Step 2:
Wash and iron the fat quarter squares. Using the rotary cutter, template and cutting mat begin to cut out your 6 x 6” squares.
Step 3:
For the top front, sew together two rows of four 6 x 6” squares and one 3 x 6” square. Sew another two squares where the straps will be. (Dia. 1) Overlock the raw edges and press.
Step 4:
Pin the front pattern piece to the fabric and cut out. Sew up the darts and press.
Step 5:
Repeat the same amount of squares for the back and cut out the back pattern piece.
Step 6:
Sew the straps together, overlock and press.
Step 7:
Set the top part to one side and start to make the panels. The first panel is 75 x 22cm. (Dia 2) For this I have mixed and matched different sized squares.
Step 8:
Repeat to create another panel for the back.
Step 9:
Carefully and evenly gather the fabric so that it matches the width of the top front. Sew, overlock and press. Repeat for the back.
Step 10:
The second panel is 87.5 x 26cm, again I have mixed and matched different squares. (Dia 3.)
Step 11:
Carefully and evenly gather the fabric so that it matches the width of the first panel. Sew, overlock and press. Repeat for the back.
Step 12:
The third panel is 105 x 13 cm, for this again I mixed up the sizes of the squares. (Dia 4.)
Step 13
Carefully and evenly gather the fabric so that it matches the width of the second panel. Sew, overlock and press. Repeat for the back.
Step 14:
Match and pin together the side seams. The arm holes may need reshaping, this can be done on a mannequin or fit it to yourself.
Step 15:
Next, create the bias binding from a fat quarter or you could use pre made 25mm bias binding. You will roughly need 62cm for each arm hole and 122cm for the neckline. Sew and press.
Step 16
Overlock the hem of the dress, turn up by 0.5cm and sew. Give the dress a final press.
Your patchwork dress is now complete!
Tutorial by Katherine Smith for the Craft Cotton Co
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