I rarely find rayon at JoAnn Fabrics. When I do, they are generally prints that do not interest me.
But I did happen upon this floral rayon twill as I was feeling my
way down the fabric aisles a couple of years ago - and it is always
exciting to feel something other than polyester. The large abstract floral was just my
style! Unfortunately, the fabric was bordered by a brown design and stopped after approximately 40" with a
bunch of white and a dotted line. What
the heck!?
Turns out, the yardage was printed as a scarf design. The dotted lines and white
portions of the fabric, I suppose, would be hemmed out of sight.
Not to be deterred, I bought three sections of “scarf” and
hoped I could find a suitable pattern.
The 1940s seemed like a great place to start, given the
fabric rationing that dress designers were working with.
Although I was unable to cut completely around the brown and
tan border, I incorporated it all on one side of the dress so it would look like part of the design.
This is, without a doubt, the most worn self-made
garment I have in my closet. It has been
in rotation quite a while now, and is beginning to show signs of wear (there is
a small pull in the skirt) but I am not going to give it up just yet.
I wish I could find another rayon, silk, or wool with a
similar print (without the border)! Because, to be honest,
that is my favorite thing about the frock!
Dress: Made by me,
Butterick 5281
Shoes: Banana
Republic
