Hi sweet friends, I am so excited for today’s post. It kicks off the Week 1 Country Girls Sew-Along.
Introduction
Last week there was an introductory post you can find HERE. It covered how I began my sewing journey, previous Lessons With Laura posts and videos as well as details on the Country Girls Sew-Along.
Week 1 Country Girls Sew Along
There are two patterns that can be used for this sew-along. You can often find the patterns on sale at JoAnn’s for $2.99. I did my best to find patterns that were easily available, fit a budget and offer a wide variety of sizes.
The first pattern is Simplicity 3723 for adults. It has two size ranges 6-12 and 14-22.
The second is Simplicity 3725 for children. It is available in sizes 3-6 and 7-14.
This is the pattern that I will be sewing.
If This Is Your First Time Sewing
I recommend that you start with a beginner project. In the patterns above each shows an apron in View B. An apron is a great beginner project.
I have both a post as well as a YouTube video on sewing an apron. You can find that post HERE.
Tools
In addition to the patterns, to create this prairie dress project you will need some basic supplies.
- Sewing pins
- Scissors
- Measuring Tape
- Fabric
- Thread
I plan on sewing 90% of this dress on a sewing machine. If this is your first sewing project I do not recommend buying a sewing machine. Ask friends and family members if they have one that you can borrow.
Handsewing Garments
The dress can absolutely be sewn completely by hand too.
Caroline Ingalls hand sewed all of her family’s clothing for many years. Ma did not receive a sewing machine until Mary and Laura were well into their teens.
I recommend the hand sewing videos on the Burnley and Trowbridge YouTube Channel.
This Week’s Video
This week’s video covers pattern and fabric selection, various tools you will need, cutting out the pattern as well as various tips and tricks.
If you wish to view the video in a larger format just click on the black box in the lower left hand corner that says Watch on YouTube.
I’ll be back on Tuesday with a new recipe from my Little Hearth on the Prairie.
Laura