Modern Sewing Starts Here Edition 23

More about Ramie...like Linen but without the creases
For anyone not familiar with ramie – it’s a linen-like fibre, native to
China and comes from a nettle type plant. Ramie is a cellulose fibre
just like rayon, it’s extremely absorbent and breathes well making it
the perfect summer fabric! It has a similar look and texture to linen but
does not crease as much. As an extra bonus it’s easy to look after and
like linen, it improves the more it’s washed.
Although Ramie doesn’t generally shrink, I did prewash it as I prefer to
do this to find out how it behaves when washed. I washed it on a cool
wash and hung to dry.
For me, it’s the Ramie’s texture and stability that appealed, particularly
for this Wildwood Dress. On the face of it, this is a simple wrap over
dress, but there are a lot of extra details that not only make it look
super special when worn, but also make for an interesting project.
After making this dress I asked the pattern’s
designer, Peggy Mead, to comment on how she felt
Ramie worked with the Wildwood
“I was so thrilled to see Jacqui’s beautiful Wildwood Wrap Dress in
this raspberry Ramie fabric! The colour is so vibrant and gorgeous
and the dress really looks beautiful on her. I remember lots of Ramie
fabrics in the ’80s but haven’t really seen it around since. I always liked
the look and drape of Ramie and it’s nice to see that it made such a
nice Wildwood Dress.”
“I created the Wildwood Wrap Dress pattern using the draping method to create the origami-like shape of the bodice. The
bodice is loose in the bust so there is very little likelihood of needing an FBA or SBA. While the skirt, however, is more fitted and
as Jacqui mentioned, you will want to determine your length ahead of time as the hem facings are sewn on. Simply measure from
your natural waist down to where you’d like your hem to finish and add or subtract from the skirt pattern accordingly. I always
advise basting together your garment first so it’s easy to unpick if you need to make adjustments. And yes, the pockets are one of
my favourite features too Jacqui!”
EDITORS NOTES
THE PATTERN:
Sew House Seven is an independent pattern with a focus on, but not
limited to, creating beautiful women’s sewing patterns that can be sewn
up quickly and easily, yet appeal to sewists of all levels.
The Wildwood Wrap Dress is perfect for parties, weddings or the office
and when you just feel like wearing a dress. It’s a true wrap dress, with
the option to wear with a detachable obi-inspired belt. The beauty of this
dress is created by the drape of the shawl collar and enhanced by the
waist and shoulder pleats. The pattern comes in sizes 0-22 and 16-34.
To view this pattern and others from Sew House Seven – click here
THE FABRIC:
Jacqui has used Modelo’s Sligo Collection – this mediumweight
fabric has 20 beautiful colour ways to choose from.
To view the complete collection – click here