The dress features a high waistline, which is loose fitting, and a very voluminous skirt which increases dramatically in volume with each row of patchwork. The sleeves have a subtle ‘puffed’ effect without any fussy gathering. The dress fastens at the centre front with 5 buttons down to the waist.

The length hits around knee-length, and the instructions for this project also include a section on how to shorten or lengthen the dress pattern by a few centimetres, with some simple pattern amendment tips

Please see garment measurements listed to help you choose the right size. (for additional fit information on bust ease and shoulder to shoulder measurements - see here)

The basis of the construction is actually very simple - to assemble the patchwork in rows, and join the rows together. The project is broken down into sections, so you can complete the project in parts if you wish (e.g the assembly of the body, sleeves and skirt can be done in separate sessions.)

The finishes include: binding (neckline and sleeves) a folded button stand, a narrow turned hem and buttons/button holes.

This pattern has been specifically developed to make use of smaller remnants and offcuts of fabric which you might have left over from other sewing projects, or possibly from other unused textiles or clothing

The design will work best with lightweight fabrics such as cotton, linen or silk. You could cut the fabric pieces either from 3 fabrics as suggested, or use more than three different fabrics or just one single fabric, for different effects. If you are using a monochrome colour palette, then different textured fabrics can be especially effective to contrast the different patches and bring out the repeating bow design. Examples could include thrifted pre-loved linens or embroidered cloth remnants

If you want to go for a more dramatic structured look to the high-volume skirt, a tip would be to cut some of the patches in the last couple of rows (row 3 and 4 of the skirt) out of a stiff cotton organdie.

This pattern is intended to be cut from remnants from your other projects however if you are sourcing fabric to use, you can refer to the below table for the fabric usage for each size:

This ROBERTS | WOOD KiT project is provided as a PDF pattern with full sewing instructions. It includes an A4 printable PDF pattern, which can be printed and assembled at home using any standard home printer. All our projects include detailed instructions, showing you step by step how to make the project. Also included are instructions of how to shorten or lengthen this design.

Materials required: 3 different fabrics of your choice for the cut patchwork pieces, threads, 4 buttons or other fastenings of your choice.

Equipment required: Paper scissors, sellotape (for assembling A4 pattern), Iron, fabric scissors, measuring tape, tailors chalk, pins, sewing machine

intermediate sewist and and beyond

This pattern is a great choice for anyone from intermediate level and upwards. It assumes knowledge of basic sewing techniques and terminology, although most of the processes are very straightforward and easy to follow. We think it will be a fun project for anyone who wants to learn new textile and sewing skills. We also think that a confident beginner with enough patience would certainly be able to complete this project. Whilst it will be a little time-consuming to construct the many patchwork seams, the repetitive process provides lots of opportunity to improve your skills (once you’ve mastered one seam, you can do them all!) The project also provides detailed instructions, broken down for each step, so don’t worry if you don’t know where to start with assembling the design.

This is a perfect project to undertake using fabric offcuts that are otherwise going to waste. .

We believe in the value of making by hand and with love.. this slow-fashion project is intended be completed over several days (or even take weeks of you want!) and will be a little labour of love which will become a treasured piece in your handmade wardrobe.

You can download a free Midi-Length Extension KiT for the Bow Patchwork ‘Elysia’ Dress here

Moving the Centre Front opening to the Centre Back - Download Hack Instructions