I found this pattern in my stash, and I was wondering if anyone could give any help/tips/pointers that go along with it (i.e. fabrics and where to find them, how to make it an easier pattern to work with, how to draft out the princess seams, etc).
McCall's Pattern 4997 (http://www.mccallpattern.com/item/M4997.htm?tab=costumes&page=4)
(http://img.sewingtoday.com/cat/40000/itm_img/M4997.jpg)
I have that one as well. Just havent tried it yet. I know there has been a link posted several times on how to draft those out. And I do have it bookmarked, just on my other comp :-\
I bought a dress from Moressca years ago that looked like this, But couldnt tell you what type of material was used. I'm still learning my fabrics, so sorry I couldnt be much more help.
For fabrics, anything with the same weight and hand as those listed on the envelope. I would think anything from taffeta to soft wool, depending on what you want the finished thing to look and feel like...
For drafting out the darts (no princess seams here), try this:http://www.reddawn.net/costume/darts.htm
Quote from: Kathryn (Fae) Weldon on August 08, 2009, 10:42:00 PM
I found this pattern in my stash, and I was wondering if anyone could give any help/tips/pointers that go along with it (i.e. fabrics and where to find them, how to make it an easier pattern to work with, how to draft out the princess seams, etc).
#1. Are you looking for a good Faire Irish? Or just fantasy?
#2. This is not an H/A dress, so really anything could be used however, I would suggest any natural fabric so Linen or Summer weight Wool, basic cotton.
#3. Princess Seams have been seen as far back as 1300's so I don't think you need to draft them out.
#4. We do have a thread on fabric stores online here is the link: http://www.renaissancefestival.com/forums/index.php?topic=654.0 (http://www.renaissancefestival.com/forums/index.php?topic=654.0)
#5. I think this gown would be grand if you lined the inner sleeves with a contrasting fabric.
#6. You might also think of having an under gown with a close to arm sleeve to show through.
Just some thoughts I hope it helps!
Cilean
I too have this pattern, but have not used it. I bought it when Hancock Fabrics long time ago had McCall patterns for $1 a piece limit 10 per customer.
I would use the sleeve and skirt part of the pattern, but a different pattern for the bodice if one did not want to have to figure out what to do with the Princess seams.
This is the Alter Years Bodice pattern I use a lot for Bodices for ensembles as well as Irish dresses. I just even out the front bottom edge.(http://www.alteryears.com/PAY009front.jpg) Works slick. No Princess seams to worry about.
Quote from: LadyShadow on August 09, 2009, 09:16:08 AM
I bought a dress from Moressca years ago that looked like this,
That's exactly the look I was going for, while having the pride that I sewed it myself.
The #1 tip I can give you for that pattern is that it runs HUGE. There's WAY too much ease included. I have a friend (forum member Wandering Celt) who had a professional seamstress make that dress for her, and it was horrible. Definitely make a mockup of the bodice (at least), and be prepared to go down a couple of sizes.
Thanks for the head's up, gem!
Quote from: Kathryn (Fae) Weldon on August 09, 2009, 01:11:35 PM
Quote from: LadyShadow on August 09, 2009, 09:16:08 AM
I bought a dress from Moressca years ago that looked like this,
That's exactly the look I was going for, while having the pride that I sewed it myself.
I agree. At the time I bought the Moresecca one, I didnt sew. But now that I do, I want to make one just for me. I'll have to scan the pics of me in it some time.
Kathryn, I have the Moresca. You might recall having seen me in it. If you'd like I'll be happy to take somn pics of it's construction and give some measurements for you to comapare with the pattern. It's a fun dress to wear. I always feel so ultra feminine in it. :)