I was running into Creative Sewing and Vacuums to pick up thread the other day when I saw colorful spring dress pinned to the wall. It was made using a pattern called “The Sabrina Tunic” by Serendipity Studio.
Although I am presently developing several quilt and home-dec patterns for my first line by Robert Kaufman, called “Ambrosia” (more on that in the near future), I thought it was a great project to showcase a lively print with a contrasting fabric accent, so I picked up a copy.

I tested it with some fabric that I already had on hand. Here is the result.

Clearly, I am not a professional model and was torn about whether to even post this, but I think this pattern is REALLY clever and deserves some publicity. The designer gives you many blouse, dress, and trim options, all using four basic pattern pieces + facings. The next time I make this I may try getting rid of the facings all together and doubling up on bodice pieces to greate more of a lined look, but overall I was really pleased with the result.

At the end of every school year, North Carolina Dance Theatre School of Dance puts on a Benefit Performance, and this year is no exception. The performance is at 7:30 on Thursday, June 3rd, at the Booth Playhouse. This isn’t the school’s recital – it is an opportunity to see pieces the older students (apprentices and trainees) have worked on throughout the year. It is a really fantastic show.

I designed this poster to help advertise the Benefit. The photo is by Peter Zay.

If you live in the Charlotte area, don’t miss the opportunity to some and see it. If interested, you can call the box office at 704.372.1000.

Here is a new free pattern I’d like to share with you for summer – “Twirly Skirts”. It features directions for girls’ skirts sizes 6-16, but the pattern is so simple you can adjust it for adult sizes as well.
We’ve made a few different versions of skirts like this, but we really liked this one in particular and wanted to share. It has just enough ruffled detail to make it feminine and fun while still draping nicely, and it works well in a variety of fabrics.

Whip up a couple in fun prints for your favorite young lady, and use the scraps to make matching hair clips!

A lovely model, if I do say so myself. Thank you, Caitrin!