Easy Summer Dresses

Do you lack faith in your sewing abilities? 

Do you have an exceptional hatred for patterns? 

Do you suffer from CADD (craft attention deficit disorder - the inability to focus on any one project for a great length of time)?

If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, smocked fabric just might be the treatment you require*. This pre-gathered fabric makes dressmaking a breeze. Simply measure around the chest, and cut fabric at that length. Sew a single straight line, attach straps and you are cured of your seamstress woes. Once the smocking has taken full effect, you might even dare to add embellishments like ric rac or ruffles.

*Before beginning any sewing regimen, speak to your local fabric shop lady to see if smocking is right for you. Side effects include, but are not limited to, the desire to purchase yardage from every pattern, children who won't take the dresses off, and an inflated ego pertaining to your sewing abilities.

p.s. These make excellent twirling dresses.

p.s.s. I found the fabric at Hobby Lobby, but most fabric stores carry it in the spring and summer. Hurry if you want it; the "fabric lady" said when they run out they won't be ordering more of this specific pattern.

p.s.s.s. I made the straps from fabric that I cut from the bottom of little sister's dress.

p.s.s.s.s. Can you tell I am ready for warm weather?