Welcome to this comprehensive step-by-step tutorial where you'll learn how to sew a strappy summer dress from thrift store bedsheets. Follow along as I guide you through the process of transforming your favorite camisole into a unique dress pattern. With some simple modifications, you can create a stunning dress that will make you stand out in any summer gathering. Get ready to unleash your creativity and master the skill of sewing your own stylish wardrobe! Watch the video, or read on below.
Here's an overview of the project.
Materials
Bed sheets in your favorite colors
Your favorite camisole you want to copy. Don't have a camisole? Download this free pattern from Mood Fabrics.
Tools
Sewing machine
Scissors
Thread
Time
2 hours
Skill level
Advanced beginner. Techniques include gathering and making/sewing bias binding.
Step 1: Draw the bodice pattern
Draw the center fold line of the bodice pattern.
Fold the top of the camisole in half lengthwise and place the fold on the fold line. Trace the top front of the camisole.
Note the v-neck measurement; we will need this later in the project. Mine was 5.5".
Extend the bodice to your desired measurement. Mine was 22" long.
Add the hem. Next, add the side seam by drawing a straight line to the hem. Add your desired hem allowance. I used a 3/8" seam allowance.
Slash the v-neck and spread the pieces 2" apart.
Fill in the gaps with paper and redraw the neckline.
Step 2: Cut and sew the bodice
Place the pattern on the fold and cut two bodice pieces.
Sew the side of the bodice and finish the seams.
Step 3: Cut bias binding for the armhole and v-neck straps
Cut two strips of fabric 20" x 1.5" on the bias to finish the armhole. Cutting on the bias (45-degree angle against the grain of the fabric) allows the fabric to bend along curves smoothly). For the v-neck straps, cut two strips 40" x 1.5"
Step 4: Press the bindings for the armhole and v-neck straps
To press the armhole binding, fold the edges of the binding to the center lengthwise and press.
Fold in half and press again. Pressing the v-neck straps is the same process, but fold in the ends 1/2" before pressing lengthwise for a finished end.
Step 5: Attach the armhole binding
Wrap the binding around the armhole and sew along the edge. Cut off the excess binding.
Step 6: Gather the v-neck
Set your machine to the longest stitch and sew two lines of gathering stitches 1/4" and 1/2" away from the edge.
Gather the v-neck until it's the original length of your camisole.
Step 7: Attach v-neck binding
Find the center of the v-neck binding straps by folding it in half, and align it to the center of the v-neck. Wrap the binding around the v-neck and sew along the entire straps.
To get the sharp "V" in the v-neck, fold the bodice in half lengthwise and add a few vertical stitches to the v-neck.
Step 8: Cut the ruffles
Cut two strips of fabric 11.5" long. The width of the first ruffle is 1.5 times the bodice circumference. The second ruffle is 2.25 times the bodice circumference. You may need to piece several rectangles together depending on your fabric width.
Step 9: Sew the ruffles into a circle
Sew the ruffle into a circle by sewing the short ends together.
Step 10: Mark the ruffles into quarters
Marking the ruffles into quarters will make aligning all the pieces easier. Fold the ruffle lengthwise and mark the four outer corners.
Fold the ruffle lengthwise and mark the four inner corners.
Step 11: Gather the ruffles
Sew two rows of gathering stitches along the top edge of the ruffle. Gather the ruffle until it is the same size as the bodice.
Repeat the same process for the second ruffle, and gather it until it's the same width as the first ruffle.
Step 12: Sew ruffles to the bodice
Mark the bodice into quarters. Match the quarter marks on the ruffle to the bodice. Sew and finish the seams.
Attach the second ruffle and hem the bottom.
Step 13: Sew the belt
Cut a strip of fabric 69" long and 1.5" wide. Fold the end in 1" and press. Fold the edges of the binding to the center lengthwise and press. Fold in half lengthwise and press again. Sew along the edge.
Get ready to embrace effortless style, comfort, and a fun-loving vibe with this dress.
Say goodbye to accidentally wearing your dress backward! The front and back of this dress are identical, ensuring you always put it on the right way. No more fashion faux pas!
Check out the gathered v-neck. It adds a touch of elegance and creates volume, giving this dress a flattering silhouette. As the temperature rises, staying cool becomes a priority. The loose, flowing fit of the dress will allow for maximum airflow, keeping you cool and refreshed.
Let's not forget about the skirt! The gathered ruffles are perfect for twirl-filled moments. And the bright color blocking adds a vibrant burst of energy.
Congratulations! You have now reached the end of this comprehensive step-by-step tutorial on creating your very own bedsheet summer dress. By following the instructions outlined throughout this guide, you have learned how to trace your favorite camisole to create a pattern and transform it into a stylish dress. This skill opens up a world of possibilities for your wardrobe, allowing you to unleash your creativity and express your unique style. With your newfound sewing abilities, you can now confidently design custom dresses perfect for summer. Get ready to turn heads and showcase your fashion-forward creations wherever you go. Happy sewing!