How to Sew Dress Clothes for Girls
For everyday wear, little girls need clothes that they can play in. Special occasions, however, call for special dresses. Casual, unisex clothes are popular, though, and it can be difficult to find fancy dresses "off the rack." But if you can sew, you can create a dress that makes even a rough-and-tumble tomboy look like a princess. The secret to this transformation is the right combination of an appropriate sewing pattern, fabric and embellishments.
Instructions
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Consider the age of the girl when thinking about what kind of dress to sew for her. A toddler or a very young girl will look adorable in layers of ruffles, but something with cleaner lines is more appropriate for an adolescent "tween." Seek her input.
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Look beyond the generic "children's" section when searching for a pattern. Check the bridal section for flower-girl dresses for little girls and petite-sized bridesmaids dresses for older girls. Patterns for prom dresses are another option for older girls. Remember that you have the freedom to alter a long formal gown to knee length.
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Choose fabric that looks dressy but is washable. While pure silk requires dry-cleaning, many blended fabrics are beautiful but can be hand-washed in cold water. Check out velveteen, taffeta, polyester satin, and shimmering crepe. Make puffy sleeves from sheer chiffon in either a coordinating or a contrasting color.
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Spice up the dress with fancy notions. If it needs buttons, choose those with a pearl or other gemstone appearance. Add lace around wrists, hem or neckline. Slip wide satin ribbon through thread loops placed on the side seams at waist level and tie the ribbon in a bow at the front or back.
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Tips & Warnings
Always buy a pattern size based on the girl's measurements rather than the size she normally wears in readymade clothing.
Hem little girls' long dresses no longer than ankle length to avoid a tripping hazard.
