I was inspired to make the SewBaby Reversible Sundress for my daughter after finding the quirky Ivy League Bees print by Jay McCarroll (of Project Runway fame) for Free Spirit. For the contrasting side we found some gorgeous Kaffe Fassett fabric in a bright garden print. This is a medium weight woven, not quite a home dec weave, but pretty sturdy. I was a little nervous that it would make the dress too heavy, but I think it gives the finished product some nice body and helps with skirt swing out.
Technique wise, I used a walking foot for sewing the front and back together. This made it easier for me to keep the pieces lined up perfectly, but a walking foot definitely is not required for this project. Before cutting the fabric I traced the 18 month size of pattern using Swedish tracing paper, so I can reuse the pattern for making gifts or larger sizes. I used 2 buttons back to back on both sides of the dress so it is truly reversible. Just be sure not to sew the buttons too tightly together. Leave some slack in the thread as if you were sewing on a coat button.
My daughter is 15 months old and I found the 18 month size to be generously sized. She'll be able to wear this dress well into the fall. It will look cute with a little long sleeve tee when the weather cools down. The pattern couldn't have been easier to follow and it sewed up in no time at all. The SewBaby Reversible Sundress is a perfect project for new sewists or for anyone who just wants an easy super cute dress!
-Emily