The Vintage Sewing Pattern Pledge 2015: Update on Project 1

My first project for the Vintage Sewing Pattern Pledge 2015 has begun! This past weekend I cut a muslin version of the dress and I have to admit - really, is a muslin necessary? But even a long straight waist-less dress deserves a proper fitting. :). Here are the pattern pieces cut from muslin, laid out on my living room floor. (To refresh your memory on what I am sewing, look at this earlier post.)

Notice all the printing on this early 1920s pattern from McCall Patterns. What makes it fascinating to me is that all the instructional information (how to lay the pieces on the fabric in preparation before cutting, how to sew the pattern, and other helpful information) are ALL on the printed patterns. Here are some close-ups.

Here are the guideline diagrams for laying the pattern pieces on the fabric.

Here are the actual sewing instructions - just four simple steps and a single diagram!

And also illustrated are inspiring possible combinations of fabric and ornamentation for the dress. I would love to try the dress on the far left, which is accented with hand embroidery or beads. The other combinations are equally interesting, though. Note how the embroidery pattern number used in the illustration is provided below each dress. Now if only I could order those! One thing that strikes me is just how versatile this basic dress pattern is - it looks perfect for dressing up or dressing down. :)

The other main pattern piece illustrates "how to" tips on binding a slash opening, finishing a plain hem, finishing a hem with seam binding, general seam finishing tips, how to make a bias binding, how to make a bias underfacing, and how to make tailor's tacks. You will notice that the pattern includes no facings (typical), so I will be using those skills to face the neckline and sleeves with bias binding. I'm not sure yet if I'll make the binding or buy it.

The pattern pieces have a skinny 3/8 inch seam allowance throughout, with the exception of a widening to a full inch through the hips, in case more room is needed there. So thoughtful. :) And the dress provides a generous 3-inch hem.

I'll keep you posted on the fitting!