M7746 – This pattern is added to my favorite stash. When I first prepared everything, it was easy…until I got to the sleeves. The sleeves were confusing. I actually attempted to read the pattern to figure them out. Then about 15 minutes later I realized how to sew the “sleeve set” and now it is one of my favorite sleeve types. The sleeves have the right amount of poof to them, and are noticeably dramatic.
I made this using broadcloth. I’m fascinated with making pieces from broadcloth first, because it allows me to test a garment while spending $1.99/yd. Also, with muslin, it is too drab/possibly wearable, but with broadcloth, if I love it, I can still wear it, and look fashionable.
Now, the button guide did not work too well for me. Maybe my markings were incorrect, but my button placement ended up being a disaster. Everything about my dress is constructed very beautifully, until we get to the buttons. I butchered them since I had to reset the placement. It was my first time actually using a button guide, so I’m sure it was ALL ME!! In the future, I will go back to my self-measuring method.
Confession, I seldom use the guides – elastic guide, button guide etc -, I “guess-timate”!!!
Would I make this again? Possibly. It is kind of time consuming. If I did it again, I would use a lightweight denim or cotton twill.
PATTERN: McCalls 7746
FABRIC: Symphony Broadcloth
DIFFICULTY: Intermediate
VIEW(S): View A, Dress and Collar/ View C, Sleeves and Lower Flounce
MODIFICATIONS: The dress is long because I did not cut where it says “cut here for View C”.
The Pattern Boss 