Things You'll Need:
- fabric of your choice, amount to be determined by the length measurement
- 2.5 yds ribbon 1 in wide
- thread
- trim of your choice
- scissors
- tape measure
- sewing machine
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Step 1
You will need to determine the amount of fabric you will need to buy for the dress you are making. To do this have the child stand up and measure from the back of her neckline to the finished length you want the dress to be. Add 2 inches to this measurement. (EX: if the measurement if 23 inches + 2 inches = 25 inches) This is the least amount of fabric you should buy. You will be safe in buying 1 yd for all sizes except 7 and up.
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Step 2
Cut the fabric to the length you get from the formula above. I use a 45 inch wide fabric but if yours is wider that is ok the dress will just be a bit fuller.
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Step 3
With the ugly side of the fabric facing up turn under and press down 1/4 inch along the cut sides. Now turn up 1 inch more and press.
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Step 4
Fold fabric in half with the ugly sides of the fabric together. Pin. Measure down 6 inches from the top and mark with a pin. Stitch down the side seam along the selvages. Stop about 6 inches from the end of the fabric, where you marked it with the pin, this will later become the armhole.
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Step 5
For the hem of the dress you will stitch down the 1 inch area that you ironed in step 1. This will be the hem. If you want to add trim do it now to the bottom of the dress.
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Step 6
To create the armholes made a split down the folded side of the fabric the same 6 inches in length as you left open on the side seam. Turn under the cut 1/4 in twice and stitch down. On the selvage side armhole you need to only turn down the selvage and stitch.
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Step 7
To form the casing for the ribbon sew down the 1 inch turnup you made in step 1. Now using a safety pin pull the ribbons thru the front and back sides of the dress. Gather up from both sides. Tie in bows.
