I’ve got another free sewing pattern for you! This cosy loose-fit Rushden Dress was made with brushed cotton. Flannel fabrics are not just for pyjamas but work great if turned into beautiful tops and dresses! This dress has long sleeves, two patch pockets and a slit at the back for opening.
Sizing:
Rushden Dress is available in sizes from 18M to 6Y. Make sure you follow the measurements chart and select the size based on your child’s chest and height. Moonlight Patterns – Measurement Charts
Ease:
Approx. 9cm
Download and pattern assembly:
Scroll to the bottom of the post to download the pattern, it’s available in A4 (works also with letter format) and A0 formats.
Make sure the test box is 5 x 5 cm.
You can try printing on different paper formats but always select printing to 100%. Let me know if you have any issues.
You can turn off the layers in Adobe Acrobat and print just the size you want. It will be easier to see the correct lines. You can find the option at View -> Show/Hide -> Navigation Panes -> Layers
I had a hard time deciding if I should remove the neckline seam allowance, but I didn’t in the end. If you make exact same neckline as I did then cut it away, that extra fabric isn’t required. If you however decide to flip the bias tape to the inside and create bias facing instead you will need that seam allowance. Please mind that when cutting the pattern.
Seam allowances:
1cm seam allowances are included. Hemming allowances are 2cm. You can see them on the pattern.
Recommended fabrics:
This pattern is for woven fabrics. It would also work with stable knits but I’d recommend choosing a smaller size.
Cutting:
Front x1 on the fold
Back x1 on the fold
Sleeves x2 (mirrored pair)
Pocket frill 2x
Pocket 2x
Extras: Bias tape for the neckline, interlining for the pocket, 6mm elastic for the sleeves, a button for the back opening
Instructions (this is my preferred method; you can do it differently):
Cut all the pieces and start with the pocket preparation. Here’s a detailed instruction on how to do it: Moonlight Patterns – Sewing patch pocket with the ruffle. Cut a 12-14cm slit in the middle at the back. Overlock or zigzag shoulder seam allowances.
Lay front and back pieces with right sides facing and stitch shoulder seams. I suggest placing the back piece against the feed dogs of your sewing machine as it needs easing in. Press open
Use a bias strip to finish the slit.
Finish the neckline with bias tape. Stretch tape in your hands before attaching it to the dress for a neat finish. Stitch opened bias strip to the neckline (with right sides facing) first, then fold it and topstitch. Remember to add your loop. Add a button afterward.
Lay the right sides of the front and back together, pin side seams, and stitch. Neaten up the edges with an overlocker or zig-zag stitch. Press with an iron.
Stitch sleeve seams with right sides facing first, then gather the sleeve cap to help it ease to the armhole. Stitch sleeves to the dress.
Press the sleeve seam allowance to the inside, press under, and stitch close to the edge leaving a few centimeters unstitched for feeding the elastic. Feed elastic using a safety pin. Sew ends together and finish stitching the opening.
Hem bottom of the dress; press seam allowance to inside, press under, and stitch close to the edge
