I really want to make a dress for my beautiful niece, but I've not made anything before for someone outside the immediate family - I'm getting a bit freaked.
I knew I wanted to make something from HappyHomemade Sew Chic Kids. This book is AWESOME. I've spent a long time umming and ahhing, before choosing which one I'd go for: design E with beautiful pin tucks on the front.
Once I'd chosen, I thought "Cool, let's rock!" I traced out my pattern and bought my fabric. But then I had doubts about my ability to "finish" it nicely enough to give as a gift. I worried about the elastic in the neckline.
I've never had these anxieties sewing for myself or my own children. Why am I so freaked out? She's only 8 years old, so rationally I know she won't judge my sewing. But I do want it to be nice for her, something special just from me. My word - I feel as though I've never sewn before!
My doubts multiplied until I gave up on dress E and decided to opt instead for design J - the V neck dress. It looked easier to achieve. So I drafted the pattern, cut out my fabric, then realised there will be raw edges on show around the neckline hidden only by some lace. After mulling this over, I've decided to abandon the lace and line it instead.
Still haven't put needle to fabric yet; and, to procrastinate further I've decided I'd do a "practice" version in miniature for my young daughter Immy, to iron out any construction worries. Now I just need to crack on.
Did anyone else feel this way the first time they made something as a gift? How do you feel when you sew for others?
I know what you mean, but I'm sure you'll do a brilliant job - and in my experience the gift recipients will be much, much less critical than you will be yourself!
ReplyDeleteI know you are right, If someone gave me something I'd cherish it.
DeleteYes! I made a dress for my niece last summer, for her 2nd birthday, and took such care over it! Now I have promised to make something for my friend, and I am agonising over it! It truly is nerve wracking! I think a practise run is an excellent idea. Even just to get you used to the pattern and instructions! Good luck! X
ReplyDeleteI think so too. It is silly, I'm making mistakes and over-thinking steps that ordinarily are now second nature. I've just got to block it out and get on. Easier said than done though!
DeleteI haven't done any dressmaking for friends (though I will be in the coming months, including an 18th birthday dress for the sister) but I have done a lot of patchwork for friends over the years. I find sometimes the hardest part is picking a design and colours that you know they will like.
ReplyDeleteMy main advice would be just to slow right down. That's what i do when tackling new dressmaking techniques and generally it turns out alright. Hope this dress goes well. The fabric is incredibly cute
Thank you Kaitlyn, Going to heed your advice and go slow. All I've done tonight is mark the gathers on the fabric- then walk away! Go you 18th birthday dress. Can't wait to see that.
DeleteSuch a sweet dress and that fabric is amazing for it! I'm sure the lucky recipient will be more than delighted to receive your thoughtful gift. I've never sewn clothing for anyone else, but my cousins still talk about how excited they were as kids to receive and wear clothes that my mother had made for them - I think your niece will be really pleased with this.
ReplyDeleteThank you, the fabric is so cute I love it. Almost bought enough to make something for me too!
DeleteI think everyone gets a bit intimidated at the thought of sewing for others! I'm sure you'll do a beautiful job and that your niece will love it :)
ReplyDeleteEven you? The wedding sewing you did was amazing. Thank you for the support.
ReplyDeleteOh, I totally relate to your angst! I seldom sew for others for just these reasons. Having said that, when I have sewn for a friend or family member, the outcome has been very positive. I sewed my niece's wedding dress, and it was so, so rewarding. The patterns you've shown here are adorable, and I think I want that fabric for myself, LOL. I know it's going to turn out so cute! It's a win-win for both your daughter and your niece.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for stopping by my blog and saying hello! My husband takes my outfit photos. I do the editing and staging, but he's the guy that snaps!
Wow a wedding dress, going to look for it on your blog now. Well your husband does a great job with the photography. I need to get better at the photo editing- its not a skill I have...yet!
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