"Marietta Dress": Assembly Instructions
Welcome to the "Marietta Dress" assembly instructions, before you go any further make sure to get your dress pattern here! This dress has a classic shift shape and eye-catching low back, but the quilted detailing is really what makes it special. It's a must-make for your summer wardrobe! Stand out in this effortlessly stylish boho dress pattern. The pattern is beginner-friendly, and perfect for a quick sewing project.
In this blog post, we'll walk through using the templates (available here) to create your own version. First, get your dress templates here, then follow along with this tutorial to create your own dress.
Just for fun: There are 3 "HOT TIPS" sprinkled throughout the instructions - comment at the end which was most helpful, and share your experience! Be sure to tag me @wellspringdesigns_co in your progress photos and use #MariettaDress to help me find you!
When planning fabric choices and quilted sections, refer to this sizing chart to determine fabric requirements. These measurements are for the completed dress. If in doubt on yardage requirements, create larger quilted sections for room to maneuver templates.
In the short version (pictured above), I improv pieced scraps from 2 print fabrics and 2 solid colors into (2) 40" x 40" quilted panels. HOT TIP #1: For a boho yet minimal look, when piecing your quilted sections - use large color blocks, alternating earthy solids with subtle prints.
Dress Assembly - what you need:
Preparing your quilt top:
In this tutorial, I use the baby size (30" x 40") Wasatch Quilt. The final dress was cropped by 8" from the long version for a knee-length hemline.
Step 1. Piece your quilt top.
If you are new to quilting, here's a quick overview. A quilt is generally comprised of 3 layers - a pieced quilt top, batting, and backing - with stitching through all 3 to secure them together. This project utilizes the quilt top and backing only. Select your fabric and piece your quilt top, for this tutorial I am using the baby size Wasatch Quilt.
Step 2. Baste and quilt, WITHOUT BATTING.
Baste quilt top and backing together with adhesive spray, mark your quilting lines with a ruler and hera marker, then stitch along marked lines. HOT TIP #2: I quilted the first dress with straight lines and the second in a grid - the straight lines were definitely a more flattering design.
Step 3. Cut quilted sections using pieced templates.
Use adhesive spray, ruler, and rotary cutter to cut around templates. When using adhesive spray instead of pins, the templates lay smoothly and are easier to cut around. Cut 1 Front panel, 1 Back panel, 1 Front facing, 1 Back facing, 4 Pocket pieces.
Step 4. Sew facing to Front and Back panels.
HOT TIP #3: Watch this video! I'll do my best to demonstrate these steps with photos, however if you need more this video provides an excellent visual guide.
Pin Front panel and Front facing right sides together. Stitch along the neckline. Repeat with Back panel and facing. Flip facing right sides out, and press along neckline. Stitch along the neckline to secure the facing in place. Next, pin Front and Back panels right sides together at the shoulders, and stitch along the shoulder seam. Press.
Step 5. Sew arm hole facing.
Refer to this video at 4:00 minutes to visualize this step. Disclaimer: this is not my video, but she does a great job demonstrating and you'll be happy you watched it instead of just reading my description of the process!
Lay the dress flat with the front/back panel and facings right sides up. Select the first armhole to complete (for this tutorial we are starting with the left) and gently roll up the opposite side until it nests within the seam of the left panel/facing. Pin the left panel and facing together, wrapping it around the rolled fabric. Sew together. Pull the rolled fabric all the way through until the section turns right sides out. Repeat for the other sleeve.
Step 6 (Optional). Finishing the facing.
You may opt to leave your facing as-is, but turning under the raw edges and stitching along the edge to secure the fabric provides a cleaner finish.
Step 7. Attach Pockets
Measure distance from armhole to desired pocket placement. In this tutorial, pockets are placed 8.5" below the armhole. Pin (4) pocket sections to Front and Back panels (right sides together). Stitch along the vertical edge of pocket. Press open.
Step 8. Complete Dress.
Pin Front and Back panels right sides together. Use serger or stitch of your preference, to sew the seams together. When you reach the pocket, follow the curved edge of the pocket, then complete the lower portion of the seam. Finish with a 1" hem.
Wasn’t that easy?!
Tag me in your finished projects (@wellspringdesigns_co) so I can see them. As always, if you have questions or comments, feel free to email me at wellspringdesigns@gmail.com, or comment on this blog post. I love chatting quilting with you guys!
