Sweet Pea Fashions Pattern Hack: Palmetto Sundress

Since the invention of the sundress in the Sixties by Lilly Pulitzer, it has been a staple of warm weather wardrobes.  In this pattern hack, we’ll convert the top of the Palmetto Swimsuit into a sundress that is perfect for al fresco dining, a barn wedding, or even the Kentucky Derby!

 Here’s what you will need:

• Sweet Pea Fashions Palmetto Swimsuit pattern (top and strap pieces only)
• One quarter yard of fabric, woven or knit
• Hook and loop tape, snaps, or a zipper for closing

Before you begin, measure your doll around the body just under the arms. If the measurement is 10½ inches or less, you are good to go.  If it is more than 10½ inches, you will need to alter the pattern slightly to fit.  Add an amount to the back of the top piece that is equal to half of the amount over 10 ½ inches.  For example, if your measurement is 11 inches, the difference is ½ inch.  Therefore, you would add half of that, ¼ inch, to the back of the top pattern. We need to do this because the swimsuit was designed for knit fabrics with a tight fit.  To get a woven fabric to fit properly, we need to adjust the pattern.

Cut out the straps, two of the top pieces, and a piece for the skirt measuring 6 inches by 24 inches.  One of these pieces of the top will be used as a lining.  If you’d like the skirt less full, you can reduce the width to your liking.

Finish and hem the strap pieces as directed in the pattern.

Stitch the two bodice pieces together at the neckline.  Clip curves.

Run gathering stitches along the front and back edges of the straps.

Gather the front edge of the strap to fit between the two small dots on the pattern.  Pin it between the bodice and the lining between the two small dots.  Stitch the top edge of the bodice from the neckline to the first large dot.

Gather the back edge of the strap to fit between the two large dots on the pattern.  Pin it between the bodice and the lining between the two large dots.  Stitch the top edge of the bodice from the first large dot to the back edge.

Trim some of the bulk from the seams. Turn the bodice right side out and press it.

Gather the skirt to fit along the bottom edge of the bodice.  Distribute the gathers evenly and pin into place.

Sew the skirt to the bodice, remove any gathering threads that are visible, and finish the seam.

Finish the bottom and back edges.  Add your favorite closure (I used a zipper) and hem the dress. 

Congratulations!  You've finished your new sundress!

Watch for next week's Mod Doll Monday contest for your chance to win this dress!