FBR 4 V8630, It's not a robot, it's a dress!

Pattern Description: Lined dress, sleeveless or with 3/4 length sleeves, back zipper, and large collar. I made view without the collar.

Pattern Sizing: 6-12

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, except for the collar. One reason I wanted it without the collar is because I'm a cardiaholic. It makes it more versatile for me.



Were the instructions easy to follow? Didn't even look at them.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I really like the bateau neckline of this pattern. There's nothing out there like. It except for vintage patterns & that's the look of inspiration.

Fabric Used: Stretch cotton sateen from JoAnns, and lining.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: Well, well, well! Just when I thought, great easy dress, only 4 pattern pieces to use, I had to reset both waist darts on the front upper and lower pattern pieces. Don't normally have to do that with Butterick or McCalls. I'm not complaining too much, having to grade the waist down a couple of sizes is nice.

Anyhow, when I first started reading PR years ago, it was cool seeing all the beautiful FBAs, sliced and diced, then realizing that will probably not ever be my path, unless I choose to start sewing children's wear for myself (eww) or I surgically alter my body to require a FBA! LOL! Learning how to move or remove darts is a similar skill that's great for your toolbox though. So basically this ended up being a FBR, full bust reduction. A little sad maybe? Nope. My other option is to leave it as a potato sack shift dress. I think not!

So now I'm wondering if all those undergarment fit specialist are so very wrong, and the tags on my undergarments must be lying to me. B, B, B! That's what they say. So, my personal conclusion to the bust/bodice matter is, the pattern dart sizes are a bit off.

I was inspired by:


Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? No, no readers I'm done here. Moderately recommended, if you're not in a cup size crisis. Otherwise, this is a great beginner pattern, especially sans collar.

Conclusion: I really like the neckline of this dress. And I think this belt really helps.




Simple black crinkled chiffon cut into 1/2 inch strips or less, bind and sews onto 2 inch elastic I found on eBay. The other flower is purchased trim, poly chiffon, with satin edging. Machine basted and attached to the belt. Velcro closure. I know, I know! Couldn't wait for my snaps to arrive. For shame! But it's heavy duty and it works!










Jcrew Elastic blossoms belt: $42.50.



Total time to complete, for the dress only, from 1st cut to final steam:


BTW, this was not a race for me, but more an evaluation of my time spent/quality & cost. Was it worth it? Do tell me your thoughts.