The coat below (Simplicity 3547) is meant to be worn over this dress (Simplicity 3551). Sewing this red velvet was a time consuming, learning experience. It was virtually impossible to sew two layers together without one layer sliding away. Although I was careful to only steam the seams and not touch the fabric with an iron, one layer of my seams ended up rippled.
I had previously sewn with velvet, and I knew to cut each pattern piece going the same way on the nap. I sewed a beautiful dress for myself in high school, but I made the set in sleeves with a light-weight transparent fabric. Setting in these little doll sleeves was quite a chore.
Sandra Bezina gives some great advice on sewing velvet in her book Fabric Savvy. She suggests underlining the garment with prewashed silk organza or cotton batiste. Unfortunately, I forgot that I owned this reference book until I already had the garment together. Bezina also suggests using a lighter weight fabric for the collar underneath and the facings, but finding fabric to match the velvet has been a real challenge. I have decided to line the coat, but I haven't found matching liner either. Hopefully, the liner will make the garment smoother and, therefore, less bulky. I will add buttons after I add the liner.
I love the fit of this basic sleeveless dress. I matched the plaid design on the dress side seams. I tried various red ribbons and trims to decorate the dress but decided it needs a belt, which I will make once I find a miniature buckle. I will repost both of these garments after putting the finishing touches on them.
