4 YEAR SEWING PROJECT | MCCALL'S 7925
I don’t have WIP’s (Work in Progress) hanging around in my sewing studio. I work on one project at a time and must finish before staring a new one. If I see that a project isn’t working out, for whatever reason, I will stop and not spend anymore time on it. However, there are times when I will finish the garment to give it away or donate it (depending on how much work is involved). But this dress was different. I couldn’t let it go after coming so close to finishing it in 2020 and realizing I couldn’t fit it. Therefore, I allowed it to become a display item in my sewing room. Little did I know it would become the 4 Year Sewing Project. Let’s get into it.
I was very excited to make this dress and everything was coming together so nicely. I got all the way to the end, with only three simple steps left: topstitch the button plackets; stitch the buttonholes; and sew on the buttons. But when I tried on the dress to determine buttonhole placement, I couldn’t close the dress. Oh! My! GOODNESS!!! Everything came to a screeching halt. How could this dress be too small? Not just a little small, but way too small? I couldn’t believe it, as I admired all the beautiful details I had sewn into the dress. I couldn’t bring myself to let it go, so it lived on my dress form for 4 years. If you’ve taken my ONLINE SEWING COURSE FOR BEGINNERS, you saw it on my dress form in the pattern layout phase of the course. I’ll continue the story of how I came to be wearing it today later in the post. Here are some closeup photos of the dress.
Pattern Information
MCCALL’S 7925 is a button-front woven dress. It is fitted through the bust; has a simple neckband; inset midriff separating bodice from skirt; with sleeve and skirt variations. View B has elasticized sleeves and purchased piping (or you can make your own piping). View D has elasticized sleeves and tie ends encased in the side seams. I sewed View B. The pattern is available in both PDF and Print options in sizes 6 – 22. It is rated as EASY but I would rate it as MODERATE (Intermediate). There are several sewing techniques that an ADVANCED BEGINNER with a good amount of experience should be able to complete. I would not recommend this pattern for a new beginner.
Fabric Information
The fabric is an interesting story. I’m calling it a RAYON because that’s what it feels like. I won the fabric in a sewing challenge in 2017 called #sewapril2017. I was named “Best of April” and received fabrics from two different companies. This floral fabric was gifted to me by Pacific Fabrics. I fell in love with the print and colors.
When I realized that my dress was too small, I was so devastated that I went back to the Pacific Sales website, but they no longer had it in stock. So, I went on an online search to find it. To my great shock, I found and purchased more of the same fabric with the intention to remake the dress in my size and pass this one along to someone else one day. But I never got around to making the dress again. I look forward to using the fabric one day in the future.
The fabric is lightweight with a lovely drape, making it a perfect option for dresses, skirts, blouses, and loose-fitting pants, like Polazzo Pants.
Inside the Garment
I used my BABY LOCK SOPRANO sewing machine to sew all the seams and the VIBRANT SERGER to finish the seam allowances. Here are closeup photos of the inside of the dress.
I have no idea why I installed my label off center. I would really like to know the story behind that. 😂
Notions Information
The pattern calls for 5/8″ buttons: 8 for View A, 11 for Views B, C, and D. You will need 3/4 yd of 3/8″ Elastic and 5 yards of 1/8″ Pipping for View B. Finally, View D requires 3/4 yd of 3/8″ Elastic. I purchased the piping and coral dome buttons from Joann Fabrics and kept them for a future project.
Alterations Information
I don’t know what size I cut for this dress. I have two patterns, one is cut to a size 12 and the other is cut to a size 14. My speculation is that I cut the first one at size 12, and purchased the pattern again to remake the dress and cut a 14 for the next one. I did not make any alterations to either pattern. Sometimes patterns will run small or large. There are also times when the finished measurements on the pattern tissue are incorrect. The really strange thing about this is I can fit the dress now although sizes 12 and 14 patterns are too big for me now. I really don’t know if there was a problem with the pattern or if I did something wrong. I’m planning to sew View C in the future because I love the sleeves and maxi length. This time I plan to measure the pattern tissue fronts to see if something is off with the pattern.
Just a note: A good practice you can implement into your sewing is measuring the pattern pieces before cutting to ensure the finished measurements match what’s printed on the front pattern pieces. Don’t forget to draw in the seam allowances and take the pattern measurements from seam allowance to seam allowance. If you took my ONLINE SEWING COURSE FOR BEGINNERS, I taught you how to do this in the pattern cutting phase.
Styling Options
I switched over to a Whole Foods Plant Based lifestyle a year ago and lost a lot of weight. I had forgotten all about my dress, even through I’ve seen it everyday in my sewing space for the last 4 years. It just became a part of the decor. That was until one Saturday I was looking for something to wear to church and didn’t have many options. Side note: None of my older clothes fit after the weight loss, so I’m on a journey to rebuilding my wardrobe by sewing all new garments. It was then that I remembered my dress. I rushed to try it on and BAM! It was a perfect fit! Oh, if only you could have seen me posing and smiling. I was so excited but too tired to add the buttons that night. So, I woke up early the next morning and finished the last three steps. My dress was DONE–after 4 YEARS!
I styled the dress for church with my cream pumps; pearl earrings and bracelet: and my crossbody bag with beige and blue tones that work very well with the fabric. I felt so pretty and comfortable in my new dress. And now I have another beautiful garment added to my wardrobe that I plan to wear for multiple occasions.
What do you think?
Do you have any WIP’s in your sewing space? Or are you a “one-project-at-a-time” person, like me. I would love to hear your feedback. Scroll to the very bottom of this page to leave a comment.
Thank you for stopping by today! 💕
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This Post Has 50 Comments
What a beautiful dress on a beautiful lady! You are the epitome of femininity missing in too many women today! You bravely show the inside finish of garments — as perfect as the outside! This fabric is totally lovely!
Anita, what a lovely summer time dress. So glad it worked out that it fit when you needed it. I am mostly a one-project-at-a-time sewer. It helps sometimes to walk away from a challenging project and return to it later. I am new to your blog. I love that you have made so many wonderful garments using fabrics from JoAnn’s. I look forward to future posts.
That is so sharp, just stunning, I can not fined the pattern. I just love watching you. I have my 9 year old great granddaughter watching your show,
she knows how to sew straight lines and how to use the serger correctly, I will be getting her a big girl sewing machine for Christmas.
Beautiful!
Anita,
The wait was worth it. This dress is gorgeous. Love this print on you. Stay blessed!
Absolutely love the dress and the fabric is beautiful! My kind pf print. I know how it is to have a wardrobe that no longer fits. After a change of diet 3 years ago I have lost 70 pounds. Thanks for inspiring me to get back to my sewing.
Anita, another beautiful make. You are an inspiration not only as an excellent seamstress, but also in life and all that comes with it. Keep on keeping on.
Oh it looks beautiful on you well done
Anita,
I love, love, love, love piping!!! This dress is beautiful and is a perfect fit on you. The fabric is so pretty and dainty. This dress was worth the wait.
Thank you so much, De! It was definitely worth the wait. I love it so much.
What a beautiful dress and happy surprise to have that right at your fingertips, even if it was 4 years later. Off to see if that pattern is still in print since I took a long hiatus from sewing and working my way back to my machines, slowly, but surely.
Thank you, Melissa! Yes, the pattern is still in print. Yay! 🤗
Love it!!! Very inspiring…hmmm I wonder what I have in my to do later in my sewing basket?
Monica!!! 😂 Go check that basket.
Anita,
You did it again!!!! You created another fabulous dress!!! This is like a bonus dress and you look beautiful in it!!! Praise the Lord for healthy living and unforeseen blessings!🙌🏾
Oh Erika! Yes! Yes! YES! It’s a bonus dress and I’m definitely praising the Lord for healthy living and unforeseen blessings. 🙌🏾💕🤗
You look very pretty. Isn’t nice to fit into something that was too small. Well done. ❤️
I’m a one-at-a-time beginner, I’ll make the same pattern two or three times to get it right (or as close to it as possible). Right now I’m learning invisible zips–I understand they should be installed before finishing the seam, but this pattern calls to sew the seam and then install the zip. I’ve been at it for 2 days, trying to get it to line up, but I will get it! Anyway, you look fabulous in your new dress–I love the special details, like the piping and the gathers at the back neck. Beautiful!
I love to hear that you’re mastering techniques along your sewing journey. Just a tip: You can still install your invisible zipper before sewing the seam, even if the instructions recommend the opposite.
That is such a beautiful dress! I do have projects that I found myself disgusted with during the process and put aside for later. Later never comes. So, trying to not do that anymore. It’s too wasteful of time and money. That’s a great story with a happy ending! You look great and I love how you accessorized it!
Thank you so much. I agree with you on the time and money waste, Katherine. I’m being more intentional about the garments I’m sewing these days.
What a pretty dress. You lo9ok beautiful, as usual, Anita.
You look wonderful in that beautiful dress! I alternate my sewing between clothing and quilts…so, yes I always have WIP’s..
Would you consider sharing the WFPB plan that worked for you? I’m on a journey to lose weight and after seeing your results…will try the WFPB plan. Thank you!
Anita,
I’m so excited for you, that you’re able to enjoy your creation even after such a long time. I feel like it was a hallelujah moment when it happened. It’s a good thing that you kept it all of this time.
And, it’s beautiful, to say the least. I know you will enjoy it and remember every time you wear it. 😉
~Cornelia
Cornelia, it was definitely a hallelujah moment. I’m so happy to see it hanging in my closet now. 🤗
Hi Ronda. Yes, of course I’ll share. It’s perfect timing too because the doctor I follow is offering her classes for free on her website for a limited time. Just click on the red button on the homepage. Enjoy! https://www.goodbyelupus.com/?s2-ssl=yes
Lady this dress is beautiful inside out, every inch has a beautiful details.. I am one WIP sewer. You look great, I imagen all the sisters admaring your dress, God bless
Hi Anita,
What a beautiful dress! You look absolutely stunning, as always. Thank you for sharing the story behind it with us – you must be so delighted that you held onto it for those four years and now you have a brand new dress to enjoy! I love the flounce at the bottom of the dress.
Thank you for your advice about finished garment measurements on the pattern tissue not always being accurate; that had never occurred to me and I always thought the problem could only be my fault. I am not a WIP person – only one item on the go at any one time for me! Oh, I love how you accessorised your dress.
Jill, Scotland UK.
Hi Jill! Yes, measuring those pattern pieces is really helpful. I don’t do it for every project, but I’m glad I did when I find discrepancies.
Beautiful, Anita! So nice to see all of your dresses
And that you dress up for church. You have great taste and your fit is always impeccable.
Keep them coming!
Thank you Lynne! Yes, I LOVE to dress up for church. 🤗
I am mostly a sew one thing at a time person. I also dive right in and many times don’t stop until it’s finished. I learned this from sewing in a cushion factory. We would start and finish many sofas in a shift. After that experience it was difficult for me to start and stop projects. Now I usually work in steps; measure and make pattern adjustments, layout and cut pattern, and sew garment. I will sew until finishing touches like with your dress, buttons, button holes and hem. Your finishes are so perfect. That’s what I am working towards. This winter I am going to practice and master my serger, hoping that will help.
Yes, Kristin, the serger definitely helps to give us those clean finishes. I love your process. I work in steps too, but my steps are spread throughout the week.
Your dress is as beautiful on the inside as the outside. I love your posts.
Thank you so much, Anne. 💕
Anita
No WIP’s for me. Other than for quilting, I’ve done and finished my first sewing and constructing project ever, 3 months ago. It came out ok except for that lining around the neck. Looking to try a new project. This might be it!
This dress is truly lovely. It looks beautiful and very carefree.
You always do a great job with matching colorful patterns and style. I’m a plus girlie very heavy on top. I would never have seen inspiration in this type of pattern for me, but I do know. I may give this pattern a try in view D or find a similar pattern for my size. We’ll see. Thanks again for the inspiration and thanks for sharing.
Hi Melinda! I love this style of dress and think it looks great on plus size and curvy women. Have fun making your next garment.
Anita, your dress is just so beautiful. As you are! It’s so happy looking and the blues in it our my favorite color so I’m really drawn to it. I love blue( since childhood it’s Always been my fav color!!!) You look so happy and are glowing wearing this dress too!!!!! And Yes, I have several WIPs but I’ve got a few finished. Our Neighborhood groups of the ASG usually has more quick craft like projects so usually those become my WIPs. I’m currently working on a cute summer cotton print shirt for my grandson. He’s on vacation with his dad and other grandma so I’m hoping I’ll have it finished or almost lol by the time he returns home next Wednesday. Wish me luck! Take care and know this dress makes you absolutely gorgeous in your dress! It’s a beautiful summer dress as us you stated , it’s just perfect for not just church but also several occasions.
Nancy, from northern Indiana.
Oh, Nancy, you’re gonna finish your grandson’s shirt before he returns home. I’m rooting for you. Just think about it. You won’t have to think about finishing it once it’s done and he’ll be smiling in his new shirt. 🤗
What a lovely funny story. I can see why you were reluctant to get rid of it, so glad you didn’t. I’m on a journey to add more dresses for church to my wardrobe. I have already made the ‘A’ line skirt in white with lovely sparkly buttons. I made a shirred dress recently , without a pattern, which I’m super proud of. I shall continue to be inspired by you 🙏🏽♥️
Awesome, Daphe! Sounds like you’re having some sewing fun. 🤗
Beautiful dress Anita. Definitely worth the four year wait to wear it. You look fabulous in it.
I am also a one garment at a time girl! I can’t stand half finished projects. I have to finish them. I remember the first time at an ASG chapter meeting and everyone brought their UFO’s. I was the only person who didn’t have any!
Karen, I would have been right there with you, empty handed. It’s like clutter in my mind if I have lots of UFO’s. I just can’t do it. 😂
Anita, that is a beautiful dress! Wow! I love the pattern you and the fabric. You have an eye for matching those together. Beautiful! thanks for sharing your makes with the sewing community.
Beautiful dress❤️
Anita, that dress is beautiful! It looks good on you. I am guilty of being a WIP person. Mine is about 10 yrs old! Yes I know I must finish it, and I will. I got busy making baby quilts. The grands and a great grand.
I can totally understand taking a break for the grands. I imagine when I get grandchildren, there will be a shift in my sewing too.
Wow! This is such beautiful construction and fit. I also love the fabric you selected. Thanks so much for sharing this beautiful project!
Lovely dress – you look amazing in it! I was taught and believe in making the inside of a garment as beautiful as the outside, and it appears you agree! I haven’t sewn for myself in quite awhile but I am motivated by your work. Would love to see a great pant suit someday 🙂
Yes, I’m a huge fan of the insides looking just as beautiful as inside. And I recently purchased fabrics for two pant suits. It’s been on my mind for a long time. I need them in my new wardrobe.🤗