Easy DIY: Short Shift Dress with Bell Sleeves and Feathers

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Materials Needed
3. Cutting the Fabric
4. Marking the Measurements
5. Creating the Neckline
6. Connecting the Points
7. Creating the Armhole
8. Adding Allowances
9. Cutting and Sewing the Facing
10. Cutting and Sewing the Sleeves
11. Attaching the Feather
12. Finishing Touches
13. Conclusion

Introduction

Welcome to this tutorial where we will be making a short shift dress with Bell sleeves and feathers. If this is something that interests You, keep reading to learn how to Create this beautiful dress step by step.

Materials Needed

Before we begin, let's Gather all the materials we will need for this project. You will need two and a half yards of crop fabric, scissors, tape, and measuring tape.

Cutting the Fabric

The first step is to cut out the amount of fabric needed for the dress. Take your hip measurements and add three extra inches for seam allowance. Measure the length you want the dress to be and add some allowances. Cut the fabric in two places to create the front and back pieces.

Marking the Measurements

Next, we will mark the shoulder line by making a point at the top line. Take your shoulder measurement and divide it by two to mark a point on that line. Measure your shoulder slope by going down from your shoulder measurement by one inch. Adjust the neck measurement and mark a point for the width. Connect the points with a curve to create the back piece.

Creating the Neckline

To create the neckline, connect the shoulder slope to the neckline. Measure the vertical measurements for the bust point, underbust, waistline, and hip line. Repeat the measurements on the other side of the dress to ensure straight lines. Connect all the points to create a pattern for the dress.

Connecting the Points

After marking all the measurements, connect the points together to create the front and back pieces. Label each line correctly to avoid confusion. Connect the lines for the bust point, underbust, waistline, and hip line. Connect the lines and label them accordingly.

Creating the Armhole

To create the armhole, divide the bust measurement by six and add 1.5 inches. Mark a point on the chest line and connect it to the shoulder line. Repeat the process for the back armhole. Connect the points to create a curve for the armhole. Add allowances to the armhole measurements.

Adding Allowances

Add allowances to the measurements for the chest line, bust line, waistline, and hip line. Use an allowance of one and a half inches for each measurement. Connect the points with straight lines and label them correctly.

Cutting and Sewing the Facing

Cut out the facing for the dress by placing the fabric on the neckline and tracing it out. Cut the facing and sew it to the dress using a one and a half inch seam allowance. Repeat the process for the back piece.

Cutting and Sewing the Sleeves

Cut the sleeves using the slash and spread method. Label the shoulder line, bicep line, and elbow line. Connect the points with curves to create the sleeve pattern. Cut out the sleeves and slash them at the designated points. Place the sleeves on the fabric and Pin them in place. Trace and cut out the sleeves.

Attaching the Feather

Attach the feather to the sleeve by placing it on the wrong side of the sleeve. Use gum or glue to secure it in place. Close the sleeves and hem the bottom of the dress.

Finishing Touches

Once all the pieces are attached and hemmed, give the dress a good press to ensure it looks neat and polished. Make any final adjustments if necessary.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully created a stunning short shift dress with bell sleeves and feathers. This dress is perfect for any special occasion or a night out. Enjoy wearing your one-of-a-kind creation!

Highlights:

• Step-by-step guide to making a short shift dress
• Bell sleeves add a trendy and stylish touch
• Feather embellishment for a unique and eye-catching design
• Versatile dress suitable for various occasions

FAQ: Q: Can I use a different fabric for this dress? A: Yes, you can use any fabric of your choice as long as it is suitable for clothing and drapes well.

Q: Can I adjust the length of the dress? A: Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the length according to your preference. Just remember to add allowances for hemming.

Q: Is this dress suitable for beginners? A: This dress project is suitable for intermediate sewers who have some experience with garment construction. Beginners may find it challenging, but with patience and practice, it can be accomplished.