My day was too busy with “life” stuff so I didn’t get much done on Addy’s Civil War dress. Part of my problem was deciding what I wanted to make. I have more Civil War looking fabrics than most other era’s, but I wanted this to be something really pretty and Springy and light and delicate instead of some of the darker prints I have. I had this one fabric that I just absolutely love and kept trying to convince myself that it could have been seen in the 1860’s. I wasn’t positive, but I decided to go ahead with it anyway. Here’s the fabric…
I think it is so pretty and now that I’m committed to it, I hope you’ll agree. I gathered up some soft and delicate lace and added a nice full ruffle around the neck. I know you’re going to have a hard time seeing where I’m going with this, but I thought I’d show you anyway…
I’ve just got the sleeves pinned on so they will look different…
Addy was sharing the cutting table with Eden, so she’s in the background…
I know it looks like something from Downton Abby right now, but I think it will change when you see where I take it…
…when the skirt gets gathered up and the sleeves are finished and her hair gets decorated, she’ll look very 1860’s-ish! At least that’s the plan!
DON’T FORGET: Eden wanted me to remind you…. her dress is ending this evening on Ebay… I hope you’ll check it out…HERE.
See you tomorrow,
Blessings, Jeanne
What a surprise — another beautiful dress. It does look cheerful and spring-like. I kept saying, “I love the ribbon. I love the ribbon.” Did you use the same ribbon for Felicity’s green dress? If so, it was beautiful there and just as lovely with this fabric. It’s only 1:22 AM and already I want to see tomorrow’s post.
HI Marilyn,
It is the same ribbon as what was used on Felicity’s dress. I also have a bluish ribbon that I may try when I get more of the dress done…but I think I’m liking the green…
I’m glad you look forward to my posts each day, Marilyn…that keeps me on my toes and busy! I hope you’ll like what I turn this into…
Blessings, Jeanne
Oh, what a beautiful print, Jeanne! However, when I think of Civil
War, I think of dark, drab fabrics, not sure why. This will be so pretty and spring like! I hate to tell you, but I made an Easter dress for my daughter back in the late 70’s and it was just about like that, except no sleeves. Of course, it wasn’t long either, but seeing that made me think of it. You are educating me on what a Civil War dress can be!!
HI Linda,
I know most of the Civil War prints are dark, drab, usually a geometic design but I do have some books that have some brighter prints in them so I’m actually copying about 2-3 different elements of dresses and putting it into one… Maybe I’ll show the parts I copied for you to see when I’m done.
I love this fabric and I think it would work for a variety of periods…it just depends on the style you choose to make it… I hope I can pull it off…
Blessings, Jeanne
I love the way the lace collar just ‘drapes’ nicely! beautiful fabric…! will be fun to see it built! 🙂
Thank you Mary,
I love this lace too and it makes wonderful drapey collars. I better get busy “building” this dress….
Thanks so much,
Blessings, Jeanne
Oh, this is so beautiful already, Jeanne. Addy is going to looking radiant (well, she already does) in this lovely gown that you are creating. Thanks for letting us join you in your fun of creation. It’s a banquet for my eyes each day to see what you’re working on….sewing or otherwise!
Take care.
Thank you for your sweet comments Becky,
I hope I can make this dress look beautiful for Addy when I’m all finished. I’m pulling a few ideas from a few different dresses so we’ll see how it turns out. I want anyone to look at it and immediately know it’s for the girls of the Civil War era.
Thank you again,
Blessings, Jeanne
Love the way the lace drapes too. I’m going to have to scout for some next time I visit our local senior volunteer fabric/craft store. Fabric is by the pound and everything is 1/2 off two Fridays a month. 🙂
HI Joy,
Oh, I want to come shopping with you! I would love finding fabric by the pound! Sounds like so much fun… I hope you find some nice things…
Blessings, Jeanne
Oh, yeah, a Civil war dress to ogle over!! Most Civil War prints are dark and small although Addy’s Sunday Best is purple. I did have a skirt in the very early eighties that was bright flowers like that. I’m not sure that I’ve ever seen bright multi-flower fabric from that era, but Addy will look so pretty and springlike, since the style will be correct, it won’t matter. I love the iridescent green ribbon. Maybe Addy is a trend setter!! 🙂 Can’t wait to see where you go with it.
HI Laura,
I’ve seen some museum pieces that were bright like this.. maybe not the exact style print, but similar. I hope the style of the dress overrides the print… that’s what matters most I think.
Yes, I like that… “Addy is a trend setter!” That’ll be my new motto when I pick a fabric that is questionable… thanks!
Blessings, Jeanne
Addy’s “blossoming” dress will be a feminine delight, I am sure! The floral fabric just sings springtime, and your seamstress’ eye for detail and authenticity always transforms your materials into something unique and charming. I love to watch the process with anticipation and awe!
So glad you added the extra pics of your sister’s jewelry chest. The colorful paper on the sides of the drawers is a wonderful surprise!
Thanks to all your readers who shared information about my Japanese dolls. I so appreciate their knowledge and research!
Happy sewing, Jeanne. Blessings to you and all your readers!
Thank you Anne,
I hope you are feeling well today! Addy’s dress will lighten your spirits I hope!
I’m hoping to pull of an authentic Civil War dress.
I loved the paper on the sides of the jewelry box drawers too…one of those extra things that you’d never think of but just love when you see it!
I’m glad I have some smart and “detective” readers too! I learned a lot too!
Thanks Anne,
Blessings to you,
Jeanne
I had a trip to surgery yesterday for a generator change in my AICD which went very smoothly and was home in time to comment yesterday. So I’m good for another nine years, ha, ha. Love reading everyone’s comments about your wonderful ideas and beautiful dresses.
Remember, Jeanne, I went to the Hello Kitty 50th Anniversary Exhibit in the Japan Town Cultural Center in Los Angeles last year. There were thousands of items beautifully displayed. Took loads of pictures. A Hello Kitty Tea Room opened in Irvine, California last year. I bought a Hello Kitty sewing machine on eBay for when Riya can sew. Has anyone experience with a child’s sewing machine that has a clear plastic baffle around the needle? I saw them on eBay. I’d love to sew with her when they visit in July as she will then be seven years old.
HI Susette,
I’m glad you’re all “fixed up” now and ready for lots more living! …and so glad you didn’t miss a beat! Thanks so much for all your comments Susette.
I bet there was Hello Kitty everything at that exhibition, wasn’t there? I know what you’re talking about that guard thingy around the needle on a childs machine, but I don’t have any experience with one or know anything about them. Probably google it… that has everything possible known to man… I hope you get to sew together…that will be fun! Another little Sara will come to life!
Blessings, Jeanne
Hi Jeanne,
I love the fabric you selected for Addy. It’s so pretty. Your blog is so diverse, whether it’s dolls, chickens or furniture it’s all enjoyable to read.
Take care
Ingrid
Thank you Ingrid,
My sister, Cindy, has tried to tell me that she thinks my readers will enjoy what I write about…and that it doesn’t have to be ALL doll stuff. I’ve struggled with that, but your comments make me feel at ease about it. So thank you! I’m glad you like what I chose for Addy… I’m working on the sleeves this evening…
Blessings, Jeanne