Sewing Workshop Veranda Dress

Reviewed by:	Ann Smith	About Ann Smith CA USA Member since: 8/24/02 Reviews written: 154 Sewing skills:Advanced Favored by: 185 people patterns reviewed: 151 Bio: I love to sew for fashion, especially unusual designs. I own way too many patterns and fabric! I hav...full profile
Posted on:	11/7/02 4:28 AM
Pattern Size:	Regular
Project Photo:
Pattern Photo:	Pattern Information provided by Ann Smith
Pattern Rating:	Recommended, but with modifications
I picked this pattern because I wanted a shirt with French cuffs so I could use a special pair of cufflinks. The fabric is a cotton poplin with stretch. Vogue labels this pattern as Easy. I'm here to tell you that it is not. There are several tricky and unusual construction steps on the shirt such as the concealed zipper on the front and the cuffs. The sleeves need alot of easing which is not easy with the recommended fabrics. And there is a lot of top-stitching. Also it is fairly fitted which can be a challenge. To make it tougher, the instructions are somewhat lacking. They forget to mention sewing up the side seams. The don't indicate which way to sew the cuff placket on (I tried to figure it out and guessed backwards). They never mention seam finishes. I did end up with a pretty interesting top that fits well. The sleeve and shoulder fit really nicely. I cut the neck and shoulders at size 10 (3 sizes smaller than bust measurement) and the sides at size 12 (1 inch smaller than my hips). I needed to sew a 1/4 inch seam at the hips to make it fit. Sometimes 5/8 inch seam allowances are a blessing...