Colette Peony

--Meredith

Erica, my friend and fellow co-worker and teacher at MD, has been whipping up versions of Colette's new pattern, Peony. With the flattering boatneck and classic line (plus--gotta love pockets!), it's not hard to see why. Erica was kind enough to answer some questions so we could get to know the pattern a little better.

What kind of fabric did you use?

 For the three-quarter sleeve version, I used some lovely striped cotton shirting I found at Bolt. The belt is made with cotton that has a little bit of stretch. For the short-sleeved version, I chose a cute cotton print I found for next-to-nothing in the sale section. This cotton is closer to quilting-weight, which I normally wouldn't use in garment construction, but it had enough drape and a nice enough hand that I thought I might be able to get away with it. I think it worked out ok!

Why were you inspired by the pattern?

I love the vintage-inspired designs Sarai creates for Colette Patterns, and I always adore a good boat neck! I thought this pattern would be really versatile, because with the three-quarter sleeves it makes a great Fall/Winter dress, and with the shorter sleeves it's perfect for Spring/Summer. Plus, I am a sucker for dresses with pockets. 

What can someone learn from making this pattern?

There are so many great skill-building opportunities in this pattern for a beginning sewist. You can learn how to put in an invisible zipper, how to sew side-seam pockets, how to do fancy-sounding things like understitching, and if you're feeling brave, you could embellish the neckline with some piping!

Thanks Erica! For those who would like a little help with the pattern, zipper installation, or fit, Erica is offering Peony as a class at MD Wednesdays in November. The expansion will be done so be one of the first to take a class in the new space! And now until Monday October 14th is the time to take advantage of the Expansion Sale! 10% off all BERNINA and bernette machines, plus special pricing on models like the classroom 440s and a sewing and embroidery machine--the 640!