A Novel Idea

Whether I'm tracing a pattern, cutting out fabric, sewing, or simply ironing, chances are I'm listening to an audiobook. I'll frequently sew for hours at a time, and there's nothing better than getting lost in a good book. I made this dress while listening to Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.

One of these days, I'm planning to coordinate my sewing projects and my audiobooks. Perhaps sewing a vintage dress while listening to historical fiction set in the same time period. Or listening to an Ursula K. Le Guin novel while sewing a space themed dress. The possibilities are endless! While I have yet to do this, I imagine that syncing sewing project with audiobook will foster more meaningful engagement with both. Regardless, you can't deny that it's a ~novel~ idea.

I made this dress using Butterick 6453, a pattern by Gertie, and a discount sheet set from Betsey Johnson featuring a playful cherry print. Just like my egg dress, I made this dress as a wearable muslin: a practice run before remaking the dress with a more expensive fabric.

I replaced the adjustable straps with fixed ones, but otherwise made no changes. Similar to my tablecloth dress, I used the finished edges of the flat sheet for the bottom edge of my dress, so I didn't have to hem it. This does mean that my dress is a little longer than the pattern specifies, but that's okay with me!

I'm planning to remake this dress with this charming border print from Cotton + Steel Rifle Paper Co. As always, updates to come!

If you're curious what I'm reading next, you can follow or friend me on GoodReads. I'm usually working my way through at least 2 books at a time: an audiobook that I listen to while sewing, and a physical book that I read before bed.

Speaking of cherries, my island in Animal Crossing is chock-full of them! Let me know if you want to pop over for a virtual visit! :)

For fun, here's an example of what a difference a petticoat can make!