Startup Project: Sew the Flirty Dress
Sara Alm
Class Preview
- In-depth Instruction; over 168 mins
- On-demand video access anytime
- Bonus downloadable PDF resources
- Access to class Q&A
Pattern & Fabrics
20:22
Meet Sara and start by looking at the pattern she'll be using for class. Sara helps you choose your size and fabric, then goes over everything you'll need to get started.
Layout, Cutting & Marking
24:12
Sara demystifies the layout diagram as she shows you how to assemble your pattern pieces, keeping an eye on grain lines. Sara also shares cutting tips, and guides you in transferring markings for darts, notches and circles from pattern to fabric. After a quick refresher on fusing interfacing, start staystitching the neckline.
Darts & Zipper Insertion
29:37
This dress has bust darts in the front and waist darts in the back for gorgeous shaping. Here, Sara teaches you how to stitch and press the darts for perfect results every time. Also, learn to install an invisible zipper and finish the center back seam smoothly.
Seams & Facing
29:14
After you sew the shoulder seams, it's time to finish the neckline with a facing. Learn how to join the facing pieces, finish the facing edge and join it to the dress neckline. Plus, discover expert techniques for trimming the seam and understitching the facing.
Sleeves
38:48
Don't fear the set-in sleeve! In this lesson, Sara walks you through every step of sleeve construction, including hemming and attaching the graceful flounce. Afterwards, find out how to ease in the sleeve cap, pin it into the armhole, stitch the seam and press.
Hem, Finishing Details & Variations
25:15
Finally, after you measure and pin the hem, learn how to stitch it by hand. Then, finish with a hook and eye at the back neckline, and tack down the neckline facing. Plus, see how to create a contrast lining for the sleeve flounce.
Description
Ready to put your basic sewing skills to the test? In this class, the follow-up to Startup Library: Sewing, designer and patternmaker Sara Alm guides you through making a stylish, versatile dress with inset seams and an invisible zipper. With Sara’s expert guidance, you’ll have the confidence and skills you need to finish this dress and many more!
Important Pattern Information: The sewing pattern on which this class is based — McCall’s 7681 — is not included with your purchase and might be out of print — check with online retailers. This class is rich in essential sewing techniques, so if the pattern is out of print, we encourage you to look for an alternative pattern with similar style details. You might also be able to find the original pattern through a private reseller.
Sara Alm
Sara Alm started sewing dresses at age 6, and she's never looked back. After graduating from the Apparel Arts patternmaking program in 2005, Sara work has worked as a patternmaker, designer and sewing instructor at Apparel Arts. She also shares her passion for garment-making by teaching sewing and fashion to at-risk teenage girls. Sara recently launched a line of women's activewear and is the author of "Designing Clothes With the Flat Pattern Method" and co-author of "Famous Frocks."
Bonus materials available after purchase