Hello everyone!
Over the weekend, many Americans remembered and gave tribute to those who have given their lives to secure and protect the freedom we have in our country. I say “Thank You” to each one who paid the ultimate price. Thank you to our veterans and current American military personnel for your bravery, service, and love for our country.
Burda-Style 6639 – Introduction to Border Prints
I’m pretty excited about this dress because it’s my first time using a border print. I’ve always admired the amazing garments my sew sisters manage to create with gorgeous border print fabrics. Since this is my first attempt, I wanted to start simple by using the border on the skirt and sleeve hems only. Also, as I mentioned a couple of weeks ago in THIS post, where I practice matching stripes, when practicing new techniques, I stick with very simple patterns.
The fabric used is an ITY (Interlock Twist Yarn) from my stash – purchased from the Michael Levine Loft. The border was printed parallel to the selvage edges, so I cut the dress on the crosswise grain. I used the border as a guide for my layout, placing the edges of the pattern pieces along the edges of the fabric border. This helped to ensure that the border would line up evenly at the side seams of the front and back skirt pieces, and uniform hems.
Because my fabric border is not very wide, I ignored the given hem allowances on the skirt and sleeves because I wanted to retain as much of the detail in the border as possible. I used a 1/2″ double hem, which left me with a small portion of brown peeking out on the edge.
The fabric suggestion on the pattern envelope is jersey knit and I think it would be a lovely and very comfortable option. I’ll leave links to both jersey and ITY options below in the “Create the Look” section.
I sewed View A with 3/4 sleeves. The dress requires 7 pattern pieces and is quite simple to construct. While I didn’t need the instructions to sew the dress, I read through them so that I could give some feedback for those of you who are beginners. I know that many tend to shy away from Burda Patterns, but I would rate this one Beginner Friendly. The instructions are straight forward. The only part that could potentially confuse the brand new beginner is Step 3, where the shoulder seams are sewn together. However, I believe that with careful reading and study of the illustration, one should be able to figure it out. The key is understanding the fabric shading guide found on Page 1 of the instruction guide. Also, be careful to transfer the fold line of the front bodice from the pattern piece onto the fabric. This will help with placement as you attach front to back.
I cut a size 14, but if I were to sew it again, I would probably cut a 16 bodice for a bit more room in the bust and sleeves, or do a full bust adjustment and increase the sleeve width.
Now that I’ve completed my first border print garment, I’m ready to get more creative with all the amazing border print fabrics that are on the market.
(All Photos Courtesy of CEMO!!!)
Create the Look!
- Pattern: Burda-Style 6639
- ITY Knits: HERE, HERE
- Jersey Knits: HERE, HERE
Thanks for stopping by!
Remember: When you live in your DESIGN, it is from there that God SHINES!
Anita
I love your dress! This is the best review anywhere. Im a beginner so I found your pictures and advice super helpful. You mentioned many people shy away from Burda patterns but why? Thank you, Amie 🙂
Love this!
Thanks Cheryl!
Just found your youtube channel and now your web site. I love all the great information you supply. I have just started sewing clothes, even though I’ve been sewing for years, and your tutorials have been a tremendous help. THANK YOU!
Awesome! So glad you found the tutorials helpful. I’m happy to have you join me. Enjoy your new venture into garment sewing.
You always look so stunning! The fabric is very nice. I have never been able to sewing a button. Love your dress. Sorry for my bad english. Kisses
Thanks Carmen! No apology necessary. I understood every word.
Very nice as always, Sew Sister!
Thanks Dina!
Anita, this dress is fabulous and such classic look! You always look so chic no matter what you’re wearing! Boder prints are something I need to try too. This dress is just stunning on you, especially with your first try using border prints! Great job! (And I love your accessories too!)
Hey Myra! Thank you so much! Yes, give the border prints a try. I’m pretty sure you’ll make magic.
I Anita i love that dress. I wanted to make that circle skirt with a border material but couldn’t​ find any at Joann’s, also I wanted to in large the pattern, but don’t know how help.
Hi Pauline! Thank you so much! To grade your pattern up to a larger size, check out this tutorial by Andrea with Sew to Fit. She’s awesome with altering patterns. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EkY9ifPrt48
You know @peggy I seconded you, she never stop slaying and everything she comes out it is gorgeous on her. I had a busy yesterday and was thinking what did Anita post today. I peep and said yes she slayed it again but too busy to comment You know what it feels good to know her cos I do not scratch my head over what to wear to events, I go straight to her blog, take a peek, get the pattern and I am all set. she is very motivating, great tutor, a mentor, big sister, a good wife crown with beauty. We love you and keep your good work…..
OMGoodness Ray! You are so kind and encouraging with your words. Thank you so much for your amazing support.
? Hi Anita!
I’m trying to stick with the tutorials, but you are making it hard with all of the beautiful garments you’re sewing, and so fast. I love this dress and I’m just going to have to break the tutorial ranks and try it ?. You look beautiful and thanks so much for sharing. I am really enjoying this journey. God bless you and your family.
Hahaha! I totally understand. My brain is about to explode with all the ideas I have up there. I seriously need another me to help out. Wait until you see all the tutorials that are coming! Oh gosh! Don’t worry, the videos will always be there, so you can go back to it anytime. Thank you for following me. God bless you and your family too!
I can’t wait to what’s going on in your creative mind. Thanks for allowing us to experience your creativity.
This turned out fabulous, Anita!!
You and my mother would be peas in a pod if you ever met up!!
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Hi Jodie! Thank you so much! I love your mom’s style and I absolutely love that you include her and your step mom in all your posts. It makes me smile every time I see the three of you. Thanks for stopping by.
Great job!! As always. It looks good on you. I love your style. You always choose very pretty patterns, and easy to sew. Thank you for that.
Thanks so much Sheila!
This might be the pattern for me to try to get acquainted with Burda… Beautiful as always!
Hey Paulette! Yeah, give it a try. They rate it very easy and I agree. It would be a cake walk for you.
You are Fabulous in this dress Missy! I am also enjoying your pattern reviews.
Hey Neti! Thank you!
The style and fabric choice is perfect. Love it on you! I’m glad you mention this Burda pattern is beginner friendly. I am a total beginner. btw I ordered McCalls 7531 to try as my first sewing project. I also plan to do the projects from your sewing course. Thank you again for the inspirations!
Hi Carmen! Awesome! I’m so glad to have you join me.
Hey Ms. Anita
You look gorgeous in this dress as with everything you have created, I have this same pattern is it possible that you can do a tutorial on how to created this? I really need you to come back and do the sewing lessons on YouTube I really miss you I did get out of being scare and have sewn tow dress Yay!! So Ms. Anita can you come back and do the tutorial please. Miss you
Angelaaaaaa! Hey, my sew sister! I promise you I’m coming back. I’m actually working on a video now but more are coming as I get my new space together. I’m pretty excited about what’s coming up with the tutorials I have planned, so please stick with me. I really want to become more consistent and I appreciate you asking for more.