Gracelyn's First Regency Gown

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Hello! I made this dress for a party my family and I are hosting. One of my sisters and I each got a pattern from you for Christmas. When I saw how beautiful the dresses were I hoped I could someday make one of them. I did not sew very much, so I knew I would not be able to make one for a while. I didn’t even know how to read a pattern. A few months ago my mother bought me a sewing DVD, which really encouraged me to start sewing more. I made a few skirts, aprons, and quilted pillows. Then, my darling little sister (who is two) loves to play dress up and look pretty, so I thought I would use some of my cheap fabric and make her a dress without a pattern. It came out fine; it was a little small in one area and a little big in another, but she didn't care. When my parents asked us if we would like to host a Harvest Party (it’s where we choose a historical character, dress up and give a speech about them), I wondered if I might be able to try to make one of the dresses. I looked at my instruction book for my pattern but thought I needed to start with an easier one, so I asked my sister if I could use hers, which she said was fine. My nana called a friend of hers to see if she could help me cut it out, and she did. I started sewing the bodice together, and was so happy that everything was going well! I pinned it together with safety pins after I had finished the skirt to see how everything fit and looked. It was too short, and the sleeves were too tight. After fixing this problem, I used solid fabric and I sewed that onto the front and made the back with a train. I used different kinds of ribbon. One looked good but was too red, so when I saw your sash idea I thought I would try it. My mother and I both liked it with the sash. I enjoyed making this dress. Two of my sisters also picked out fabric and they want me to make them dresses too. Thank you so much, Mrs. Chancey!~Gracelyn S.

Another beginner triumphs grandly! This just tickles me pink, Gracelyn! I loved seeing your work, and keep up the sewing!