I designed the Martha dress with fancy embellishments in mind. That central panel is just screaming out for decorations! Think lace, ruffles, faux button opening, embroidered trims...
Before stitching the trim to the blue Martha dress used on the cover of the sewing pattern, we played around with a few different placements. Here are some ideas we tried...
... plain and simple...
... following the style lines of the princess seams...
... highlighting the bodice seams and waistline...
... decorating the front panel (I adore this one!)...
... and this is the one we went with in the end, keeping the body of the dress plain and trimming the collar and sleeves. I love it so much, I made one exactly the same for myself and wore it to a wedding on New Year's Eve :)
I hope you're feeling inspired! If you make a Martha dress, we'd love to see it - tag us on Instagram @TillyButtons #SewingMartha, and join us for the Instaspam Party on Saturday 7 May!
I love this dress so much ! The trimming around the mock neck is my favorite ! x
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I LOVE the decorated front panel version! Endless possibilities! Can't wait to start sewing my own for the Instaspam party.<3
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xo
Hi Tilly and company! I'll need your advice please. I'm about to make my first Martha for a very special occasion. I've actually found a georgette in a similar blue shade to the lovely one above. However, because it is pretty sheer, I'd appreciate your thoughts and tips about lining it. What fabric should I use, and should I attach it to the dress or otherwise? Thank you for your time! You all have got a big fan over here in Pennsylvania, USA :)
ReplyDeleteAw thank you! You could use a similar lightweight drapey fabric in a nude or light colour.
DeleteIf you know about pattern cutting, you could draft your own lining pattern (basically the pattern pieces minus the neckline facings and with a shorter hem.
Or what would be easier is to underline it - basically that means cutting the same pieces in the lining fabric (not the collar), tacking them to the main pieces within the seam allowances, then sewing them as one. You can leave the skirt lining hem free of the main skirt for some added swishiness, and just hem it a little shorter.
Or you could just wear a slip under it ;)
Perfect, thank you for your help ^__^
DeleteHi Tilly. I am sewing a blouse from one of your other patterns: Orla. Just wanted to let you know that I was not able to find the tutorial that is mentioned on the pattern on your website for sewing a decorative zipper. I could find the "hidden" zipper tutorial but no go on the decorative one. Also, there is no mention of finishing the back/neck facings before sewing onto the bodice. I turned the edge under 1/4 inch and sewed near the fold. I was also wondering if the sleeve could be attached before sewing the side seams as this has always "eased" (pun intended) the insertion of the sleeve in prior patterns. So glad that I found you!
ReplyDeleteHi Nani! You can find the decorative zipper tutorial here:
Deletehttp://www.tillyandthebuttons.com/2015/10/sewing-orla-how-to-sew-exposed-zip.html
You can finish the neckline facing as you've done - or use a zig zag stitch or overlocker, whichever method you prefer.
Again, you can insert the sleeves on the flat, but it can make the underarm seam where it attaches to the bodice a little bulky. If you feel comfortable with this method then go for it :)
Glad you've found us too! Happy sewing!
Hi Tilly
ReplyDeleteThese are all beautiful but I'm with you, the collar and cuffs look amazing !
Karen
Thank you Karen! I know I want to add trimming to everything now!
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