Sarafan Dress With Straps Sewing Pattern

Sewing a Sarafan Dress with Straps: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Gather Materials

Before you begin, you'll need the following items: - Fabric: Choose a lightweight woven fabric like cotton or linen. - Thread: Matching thread. - Measuring tape - Sewing machine - Scissors - Bias tape - Iron and ironing board - Optional: Lace or other embellishments

Step 2: Cut the Fabric

1. Determine your desired dress length and cut a piece of fabric twice that length plus 2 inches for hems. 2. Cut two rectangles for the straps, each measuring 2 inches wide and 12 inches long.

Step 3: Create the Straps

1. Fold each strap in half lengthwise and press. 2. Open the straps and fold the raw edges to the center. Press again. 3. Fold the straps in half again and press to enclose the raw edges. 4. Stitch along both sides of the straps.

Step 4: Prepare the Fabric

1. Finish the raw edges of the fabric with bias tape, serger, or zigzag stitch. 2. Fold the top edge of the fabric over by 1 inch and press. Fold it over again by 1 inch and press again. 3. Stitch along the top edge to secure the hem.

Step 5: Assemble the Dress

1. Place the straps inside the hem at the top of the dress, making sure they are evenly spaced. 2. Pin the straps in place and stitch them down securely. 3. Gather the top of the dress to fit the width of the bodice. 4. Stitch the gathered fabric to the bodice, leaving an opening for the neckline.

Step 6: Create the Neckline

1. Finish the raw edges of the neckline with bias tape, serger, or zigzag stitch. 2. Create a casing for elastic or ribbon by folding the neckline edge over by 1 inch and pressing. 3. Fold it over again by 1 inch and press again. 4. Stitch along the folded edge to create the casing. 5. Thread elastic or ribbon through the casing and adjust to fit.

Step 7: Hem the Dress

1. Fold the bottom edge of the dress up by 1 inch and press. 2. Fold it up again by 1 inch and press again. 3. Stitch along the bottom edge to secure the hem.

Tips:

- Use a lightweight woven fabric like cotton or linen for a comfortable, breathable dress. - Add lace or other embellishments to personalize your dress. - Adjust the strap length and neckline to fit your body perfectly.