The Madeline Dress

So, I just stepped back and thought about this - I've tested patterns for pattern designers in Belgium, Portugal, and Australia.  How cool is this internet-world?

I got an email recently from Marina who has an Etsy shop - Wink Handmade.  Her patterns are well-written, well-thought out, and as a bonus, she lets you sell products made from her pattern if you happen to have a shop.  She wanted me to test her upcoming pattern - The Madeline Dress.  Since my kid is a dress-lover, I jumped at the chance....

The pattern is really sweet.  An adorable Peter Pan collar - what a great frame for a little girl's face!  I decided to add flat piping around the collar and the pocket flaps.  I'm not a huge expert on flat piping, but it certainly worked out well.

I made this is a straight size 4.  Marina (based on the testers) added a couple of inches to each size.  I thought it was a bit short, so I added a hem band, which actually brought together the colors and didn't look like an "add-on" at all.

I think when I make this pattern again - and I will! - I'll use a size 3 and the length of a size 5.   The fabric is a random, unknown fabric I bought for about $2/yard.  I've had it for a while, waiting for the perfect project.  I just loved the way this turned out - thanks to Marina and Wink Handmade!