We absolutely adore what Maria crafted using the Oliver + S Building Block Dress book. Her creations showcase the incredible versatility of the sewing pattern, proving that the Building Block Dress book truly empowers you to be the designer. Each piece she made reflects her unique style while highlighting the flexibility of the pattern.
Here’s Maria sharing more about her experience and inspiration.
Name: Maria Where can we find you online? Blog, Instagram, Facebook
Project Details: Maria took on a pair of projects—both a dress and a blouse. For the dress, she kept things simple but added her own touch by shortening the bodice and sleeves, and creating a flared, gathered A-line skirt (page 73) for extra flair, something her daughter loved. To enhance the look, she incorporated flutter sleeves (page 66) into a shoulder ruffle. The blouse presented a different challenge. Maria reimagined it by shifting the button placket to the front (page 133) and shortening the bodice. The bottom half became a straightforward gathered skirt (page 74), while the sleeves were finished with an elastic casing. In both pieces, she added a ruffled collar made from a rectangular piece of fabric, doubling the length of the neckline for extra elegance.
Link to Your Project: Building Block Dress, a Book Review Pattern Used: Building Block Dress Fabric Used: Corduroy and Poplin
Did the Fabric Work Well? Absolutely! The corduroy was incredibly soft and flowed beautifully, making it perfect for the dress. The poplin provided a crisp finish for the blouse, adding a touch of sophistication.
How Did the Sewing Go? The entire process was smooth sailing. The instructions in the book were crystal clear, making each step easy to follow. It felt like having a personal guide throughout the project.
What Was the Best Part? Definitely overcoming my initial hesitation about altering patterns. Seeing the final garments come together exactly as envisioned was incredibly rewarding. It reminded me how empowering it is to take creative control.
Any Tips or Tricks for Others? Don’t be afraid to experiment! Even small changes can make a big difference. Trust the process, and remember that mistakes often lead to happy accidents. And most importantly, enjoy the journey!
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