After 18 days without Internet I am back online. A new cable wire needed installing and that required planning permissions and a big fat side of patience. I’ve been sewing away and really can’t wait to show you what I’ve been up to. But before I do I have to share where I went wrong with fitting Darling.
Initially the bodice was too small. I cut out a new one (not leaving enough fabric for sleeves, hence the sleeveless version shown here). And I added some ease. Way too much of it. But here’s the kicker…I then took away a wee bit too much. D’oh! But I’ve settled on a nice measurement that should be just right. I’ve also decided to lower the darts because they look quite strange on me as is.
Thank goodness for cardigans. It manages to hide all the imperfections and makes this muslin wearable.
Fitting this dress has fueled my persistence. I refuse to set it aside until I am happy with the results. And I am okay with that. I have seen some lovely versions of Darling, and *stamps foot* I want one too! I bought a beautiful grape purple poplin that should work perfectly for the final (please let it be the final) version. But I won’t cut into it until after my fitting class. Yes, this pattern has driven me back into the classroom! And I am looking forward to it.
Pincushion Treats 
That last photo is beautiful. Nice job on the fitting. A fitting class will be invaluable too.
Glad you are back online!
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Thank you! I have my husband to thank for that one.
And yes, I think the fitting class will be money well spent.
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Very nice! I love those tights! I’m glad you finally got your internet situation worked out, although it’s slightly comforting to know that annoying internet providers aren’t solely a US thing. 🙂
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looks great! I might see you at the fitting class (still deciding whether to book) 🙂
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Oh, I hope to see you there!
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Yay for having the internet back! And yay for going on a fitting course. I am sure that you will find it reallly rewarding. The courses at Morley look fab, what a pity they don’t offer some (like their history courses) in the evenings.
I love these photos, especially the first one. I think the belt adds a lot to your final outfit as well as the cardi.
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Thank you! I take credit for the styling but not the pic. That’s all Greg 🙂
If Morley ever offers a history class in the evening I will totally take it with you. I miss sitting in on history lectures.
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Perhaps we should try catch a free lecture at Gresham College one day?
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Yes, yes, yes! I’m so there! We will have to discuss options over lunch soon.
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Well, the good news is that there actually was life after 11am today (I could not see beyond the interview!), so now I am much more able to make plans. My exam is on Thursday so how about Friday?
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oh boo, my comment went into hiding! I’m impressed by your perserverance – any tips on how to achieve it? And this version is so nice, imagine how great the next one will be!
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I wish I could tell you the secret. I think I’ve just become a little obsessed with this pattern and I just can’t let go.
The next one will be just right, I just know it.
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Lovely photos! It looks like Epping Forest, but I’m guessing you didn’t wander this far north east to snap away. Where is the fitting class you’re taking? Good luck with it. Your dress is so nearly there and this is testament to huge patience.
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We took took those photos a few minutes from us, in Highgate Woods.
The class is at Morley College, 24-25 March. I’m a bit nervous that I won’t learn enough in two days but maybe I will. Here’s hoping!
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the photos are so great, you look so proud of your garment even if its not perfect but it will be.. great perseverance xx
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Would be interested in what you think of the class you’re going to attend 🙂
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I will definitely report back here and write up a post about it.
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Glad you’re back, and with a cute dress!!
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Thank you! It’s nice to catch up on blogs and actually be able to comment on them!
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But I love it too! The colour is so cheerful it deserves to be seen. It’s heralding in the spring….
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Thank you! I wore it on that first day when the temperatures got warmer. It was pure bliss. Spring is near. I can feel it!
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Looks fab . . .
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Thank you!
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It looks like a great casual dress, nice job. And well done for persevering – I’m surprised you still want to wear it after all the stress! 🙂
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I have to admit. It might go ignored if the final version comes out nicely 🙂
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You are just adorable and so is the dress!
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Aw, shucks. Thanks.
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i think it looks great. I had a problem with the darts as well. I think they are made for a very small busted person. Can’t wait to see your non muslin.
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Thanks! Did you move the darts to better suit you? That’s what I’ve done, hoping it will help with the fit.
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