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Sewing with the Building Block Dress Book



Sewing with the Building Block Dress Book

Last year on my #MakeNine Sewing Goals, I listed making a top or dress from the Building Block Dress Book by Liesl Gibson. it has taken me until this year but this little outfit is the result! If you have ever wanted to dabble in pattern drafting, the Building Block Dress Book is a great way to start!

Using the dress planning sheet provided, I sketched out my design and then followed the tutorials provided. I made a 12-18 month size and used Victorian Blue and Blue Pique fabrics from Pink Hollybush.


Planning sheet from Building Block dress book

The pattern for the bloomers are not included in the book, but you can find a free pattern on my Sewing for Babies Pinterest Board. You might also want to add a Ruffle to the Back!


Top designed with the Building Block Dress Book

I used the directions from the book to move the closure to the front of the top instead of the back, and added a separate contrasting closure made from the Blue Pique. The neckline, sleeves and yoke are piped with the same Blue Pique. The top closes with mother of pearl buttons. Here is an additional close-up.


Close-up of top showing piped collar and closure

The amount of information contained in the book is invaluable and I often use it to figure out changes I would like to make to adult patterns. I am so pleased with how this little set turned out and I hope that the recipient loves it as well!

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