The Lorelei Dress by E-Beth Designs
/Is your countdown to Easter On? Are you in a sewing frenzy to get it all done in time for the big day, or are you cool as a cucumber with everything finished? I'm pretty happy that I have something new for each of my kids for this Easter... I didn't go Matching this year, but I think that is ok ;o) I do need to whip up some cute bloomers for under baby girl's dress still, but that shouldn't take too long (says the lady who will probably sew them up Saturday night!). Share all of your Easter/Spring creations with us over on Facebook - we want to see what you have been sewing!
Today, we take a look at a beautiful new dress from E-beth Designs. Check out what Theresa and Carrie have done with the Lorelei...
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My name is Theresa. I am a stay at home, homeschooling mom
of six. I love to sew! I taught myself
to sew about three years ago and sew every free moment that I get. I enjoy
testing patterns, writing reviews and getting to know some awesome designers!
This week, I had the pleasure of reviewing The Lorelei Dress by E-beth Designs. This was my first E-beth Designs pattern so I
was very excited to give it a go.
The Lorelei dress features a scoop yoke neckline, a fitted
bodice with a high waistline and a zipper back closure, a half circle skirt and
a full lining with pettiskirt. You can opt to leave off the pettiskirt and skirt
lining, if you wish. There is also an optional sash to tie into a big bow in
the back.
The tutorial/pattern downloaded and printed easily. The
pattern pieces matched up perfectly and are nested, color coded, and clearly
marked for each of the different sizes for easy cutting. There is a size chart
with measurements to help you pick the perfect size and a chart of fabric
requirements for each size. There is a diagram
that shows you how to piece your pattern together and a fabric layout for
cutting your pieces out. A large range
of sizes are included in this pattern: 6
months – 12! You will use this pattern for
years. There is even a doll version
(sold separately)!
The tutorial is thorough, clear and easy to follow. There is
a glossary for the terms and techniques used and the instructions are very
detailed. There are clear, color, step-by-step photos to
aid in the understanding of these instructions. It is listed as an intermediate
pattern, probably because of the use of a zipper. But, it is detailed enough that I think an
adventurous beginner can tackle it.
I am thrilled with the dress and so is my daughter. I like the classic look and simple lines. All
seams are enclosed for a clean, professional finish. It fits true to size and looks lovely on. Izzy
loves the twirl factor! A girl must twirl!
I made mine in all one fabric, but
you can certainly use different fabrics for the yoke, bodice, skirt and
optional sash. You can make a fancy version for a special occasion using silk
or satin.
I will definitely be making more of these and I looking forward to
the next E-beth pattern.
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Meet Lorelei….
I have a tendency to gravitate towards patterns like this that are so versatile to different fabrics to allow for lots of different looks. For this one I went with just regular cotton but I think it would be gorgeous with something a bit fancier. I could totally see this as an adorable flower girl dress.
This dress features a completely lined interior, with a built in tulle layer for added fullness. I love that the tulle is sandwiched between the skirt layer and lining so there is no itchiness! I have a little tip on gathering the tulle that I’ll add at the end.
You can see the tulle peeking out a bit here -
The directions do a wonderful job of explaining both a standard zipper or invisible zipper. I really thought I had a matching zipper already so didn’t buy one when I was picking up a few other supplies, then realized when I got home I was wrong so we’re making a fashion statement with our coral zipper, haha!
I think this is a great beginner/intermediate pattern, with fantastic photos and directions. It took me about 2 hours to sew together (and that was with some seam ripping since I wasn’t fully paying attention when I got to the yoke portion, I suggest reading carefully! Haha!
Clearly she was ready to be finished, this is the look I get when its time to be done ;)
As promised - a quick tip on the tulle, because it’s A LOT of tulle to gather!
You should have 4 pieces sewn together to make a really long strip. So there will be 3 seams joining the 4 pieces. (I’m sorry I forgot to get a picture of this as I was going so I hope you can stay with me here…) Match up the two outside tulle seams with the seams on the sides of the lining and the center seam of the tulle with the center of your lining piece (there won’t be a seam here). This will ensure you get a nice even gather. I also stitched it down as I went with each section; this helped prevent it from shifting too much.
