Vivi loves Curious George and truth be told, all monkeys. For her special day I made her this dress. The pattern is Debbie Glenn's and has a doll version as well. Although I have made the doll dress several times, this is the first time I have made the child's dress. I was nervous about my fabric and piping color choice, but I think the result is perky and appropriate for this less formal dress.
I believe the smocking plate was an Ellen McCarn design; here is a close up.
When constructing the dress, I was a bit disappointed that the yoke linings did not encase the seams, which were a bit bulky due to the smocked insert, the gathering of the sleeve cap and all the piping. However, there really is not a good way to use the lining to cover the seams as the seams would them be facing the wrong direction. The sleeve would not "puff", and trying to turn the seam made at the insert toward the center of the dress to cover it, would be bulky, uncomfortable and may distort the smocked pleats. I felt my only choice to finish the inside of the dress was to cover them with Seams Great. This was a technique learned in a Gail Doane class. The result was very satisfactory. Seams great is very light, and smooth to the touch. I don't think Vivi will find it uncomfortable. And those of you who know me, know I am a big fan of slips. I actually purchased, (yes it's true) a Hanna Andersson slip for Vivi. It is a cotton knit bodice with an eyelet skirt.....and will not require ironing. (Good for Mommy!)
I would definitely make this dress again. It is fairly casual, especially this version with the sides ties, and the design will allow for a longer lasting fit for my two year old! Happy Birthday, Sweet Vivi
