We’ve heard your requests for a free milkmaid dress sewing pattern, and we’re so excited to debut our new Anthea Milkmaid Dress pattern! We’re all smitten with it here in the Sewciety studio, especially made out of our dreamy new Famous Australian Designer fabrics. I can think of countless occasions to wear this cottagecore dress to: garden parties, afternoon weddings, picnics, brunch, you name it. Milking cows might not be the most practical purpose, but hey, never say never!
For a guide on how we made the shoes and bag featured in these images, click here!
Purchase Materials Used Below
- 5-6 yards of Famous Australian Designer Terracotta Plain Silk Woven
- 1 piece 809 Dark Clay 24″ Invisible Zipper
- 1 spool of 561 Bittersweet 100m Gutermann Sew All Thread
- MDF317 – The Anthea Milkmaid Dress Sewing Pattern (free download below!)
Alternative Recommended Fabrics
How to piece together the bodice
All seam allowances are 1/2″.
Step 1
Match the notches on the G (back bodice) & F (side back bodice) pieces. Sew right sides together. Repeat.
Step 2
Sew together C (side front bodice) & F (side back bodice), leaving notched sides free. Repeat. See photo for final placement.
You should now have four back/side bodice pieces – two outer and two self facing.
How to attach the shoulder strips
Step 1
Iron shoulder straps in half lengthwise. With the raw edge facing towards the armscye (as pictured above), pin or baste a strap to F.
Step 2
Pin or baste the strap’s other free end to C. Repeat on the other side.
Step 3
Pin the lining and self, right sides together, sandwiching the strap between the two layers.
Step 4
Starting at the CB, sew along the top edge of G and F, stopping right after the back strap. Leave the armscye open. Sew C only at the front strap. Trim the seam allowance and repeat on the other side.
Note: As pictured above, I used a temporary zig-zag stitch the keep the vertical CB line from fraying.
Keep in mind that the widths of the shoulder strip & C (the side front bodice) will differ (as pictured). This is correct, and we’ll be attaching A (the bust inset piece) to it later.
How to sew the bust:
Step 1
Transfer both buttonhole markings to the bust piece A and sew. Alternatively, you may use elastic if you prefer.
Step 2
Fold in half lengthwise and topstitch 1 inch from the fold.
Step 3
Insert 2 18” drawstrings into the casing, then secure with some stitches at each end.
Step 4
Sew two rows of basting stitches between the notches on piece A, then gather. We’ll attach to the bodice soon.
How to sew the sleeves:
Step 1
Sew two rows of basting stitches between notches on the sleeve shoulder.
Step 2
Sew the length of the sleeve closed. I used a French seam.
Step 3
Press the raw edge inside by 1”, then fold again to create a hem. Sew, leaving enough space to insert elastic. Once the elastic is in, close the hem up.
Step 4
Repeat.
How to attach the under bust and sleeves:
Step 1
Right sides together, pin B (front bodice) to both ends of outer C (side front bodice), matching notches. Sew. Repeat on the self facing. You should now have one complete bodice piece!
Step 2
Pin a sleeve to the armscye and raw edge of shoulder strip, right sides together. Be sure notches are aligned, then sew. Repeat on the other side. I finished the raw edges with a zig zag stitch.
How to complete the bodice:
Step 1
Right sides together, pin A (the bust inset piece) to front facing B and both Cs. Even out the gathers in A, match notches, then sew.
Step 2
Trim and press seam away from A and towards the underbust.
Step 3
Fold and pin the self facing (B and both C pieces) then stitch in the ditch.
How to sew the skirt
I used French seams for the skirt.
To sew the front half of the skirt, you’ll need the following pieces: J (2) & H (1)
Step 1
Sew J on each side of H. If you’re adding a slit, sew to the marker on the wearer’s left side. Go ahead and finish the two seams and secure, as seen below
Laying flat, the skirt should be assembled as followed:
J-H-J
To assemble the back half of the skirt, you’ll need the following pieces: J (2) & I (2)
Step 2
Sew the two I pieces together at the center back, stopping at the notch indicated for the zipper.
Step 3
Sew J to I, along I’s remaining free side. Repeat on the other side.
When laying flat, the back half of the skirt should be assembled as follows:
J-I-I-J
Step 4
Complete the assembly of the skirt, by sewing the side seams together on the J pieces.
Starting at the center back and working our way around, the order of the skirt should be the following:
I-J-J-H-J-J-I
Step 5
The hem allowance is 1”, but because of this particular fabric I chose to sew a ⅜” hem.
Step 6
Sew an invisible zipper at the center back.
Soo excited to make this. Thank you for the amazing patterns!
It is perfect and it looks amazing.
Fantastic pattern! Easy to make and turned out great! If you are above a b-c cup you will probably need to add to the bustline and reshape the under bust seam a bit for a better fit so definitely make a muslin first!
Beautifully versatile.
I’m excited.
Someone is selling your free patterns on Etsy. Their handle is CREATIVE DIGITAL 34
Thanks for the heads up!
No puedo esperar para hacerlo!!
Espero que disfrutes y que salga muy bien!
Manifique robe j’adore trop belle
Would this pattern need any adjustments if i was to sew it with linen or something similar instead of the recommended fabrics?
Hi Spag! This would be so beautiful in linen. No adjustments needed!
After having read the comments I made a muslin and thank God! The bust line and front cup is for someone that is flat chested or B cup at most. If you are C cup or above please take the time to make a muslin to adapt the rushed cup portion and the under bust so that it sits under your bust and flat against your abdomen. This also goes for the plus size range. Or you will have that part sitting on your bust. In total you will need to adjust pieces C, A and B. But apart from that great pattern. Plus when you think of it you have to adjust most patterns to you’re own individual shape. Do not be discouraged, the pattern is worth a try 🙂
Yo waddup, I have a question: when it says sew 2 rows of basting stitches (on the bottom of the bust piece), do I have to sew one row above and one below the seam allowance line, or do I have to sew both in the seam allowance edge thingy? Sorry if its a stupid question, I’ve never done basting stitch gathering before lol
Hi there! Since the seam allowance is 1/2″, sew one row of basting stitches on that seam allowance. The second row should be 1/8″ – 1/4″ from the seam allowance, towards the raw edge. After you arrange the gathers evenly, pin to the bodice and sew on the seamline, over those basting stitches. It helps to sew with the gathers facing up so that you can make sure everything is in place before it gets sewn in. We’ve got an excellent post called How To Sew Gathers! Happy sewing!
This is so helpful – but I can’t figure about how to adjust piece C? The muslin I made using the unaltered pattern did not fit my bust at all, so I’ve added 5 inches of height to A (to accommodate my FF cup), but surely if I add 5 inches to the curve of section C I would need to add the same in the back pieces?? Sorry if I’m being stupid – I’m self-taught and usually avoid making anything too fitted around the bust but would love to have a go at making this!
THANK YOU!! I’m scrolling through and happened to catch my eye on your comment and I’m so glad I did before taking on this dress – which is so beautiful!
How much fabric is used for the sleeves and gathered bust? I want to do a contrast for the sleeves and bust, and I’m also going to chop off a bit of the bottom edge and replace it with a contrasting ruffle.
Hi Isabella! I would say 1-1.5 yards of fabric is used for those dress elements. 😀
Hervorragend
Hiya! So excited to make this pattern, I have a question though:
Is there lining in this? As in, is that what is meant with “self facing” in the instructions? can you use separate lining fabric or do you have to use the same fabric in 2 layers?
Sorry for the confusion, greetings from Germany!
Hi Victoria! Yes, “self facing” means you’re using the same fabric for both the self (your main fabric) and lining. You can absolutely choose to line with something else! Just keep in mind – you’ll need to adjust the cut numbers for each bodice piece. For example, you won’t need to cut 4 of the main fabric for the back bodice piece. Cut 2 of the main fabric, and 2 of the lining. 🙂
thank you, that’s lovely!!
Bonjour merci beaucoup pour les modèles elle sont très belle je les adore
I love this! A friend saw it in the making and thought it was a top. Would it be possible to make it just a bodice? If so, how many yards would that be?
Hi Layla,
We’re so sorry for the delay in our response! You can totally make this as a top, as we did here: ! You would need 2 yard of fabric in order to make the top.
Can you make a corset at the back instead of using an invisible zip?
Yes, you can use grommets and tie with a ribbon at the back if you prefer.
Good morning, I’ve tried a couple of times to download this pattern, but haven’t received the link yet, please send to juliachilds@btinternet.com
Thank you
Hello, Please email info@moodfabrics.com for any issues with pattern downloads.
This dress is so beautifull. I need to do this one!
Thank you for the pattern!
What kind of lining should I use for this project?
Hi Candece, if you’re using something that has some structure and opacity like a quilting cotton or sateen, you can self line the bodice. If it’s a drapier slinky fabric, like a batiste or georgette, and your bodice needs some structure, I recommend cotton. When I turned this into a top, I self lined it, which I don’t recommend. Next time I would use cotton.
Thank you
Ame el modelo ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Absolutly beautiful ! Thanks a lot for this pattern
Love this, but I’m not very confident with leg slits. Is there a way to make the dress without the slit and it would still look nice?
Hi Bucky! Yes, you definitely can; just sew the slit seam as a regular closed seam. 😀
Thanks! Good to know.
How to you sew the bust panel, not understanding the instructions on that
Hi Smita! After you make the holes for the lacing, fold the bust panel in half lengthwise. Take a look at the pattern piece to see the line that says “fold down for casing” if you need a visual! Sew the casing. Then baste stitch the two bust panel layers together, between notches, 1/4″ away from the raw edge. Then baste again, this time 1/2″ away from the raw edge. Take a thread tail from each row of basted stitches, and pull to gather up the fabric. Evenly distribute the gathers between the notches, then sew to the side front bodice. 🙂
Thank you so much 😀 this is my first ever sewing project and the pattern is helping a lot in figuring out things. I am a beginner so for now I will just sew it as it is and try to modify it the second time.
THE FOLD DOWN FOR CASING DIDN’T APPEAR ON A STRAIGHT LINE IN MY PATTERN PAPER.
A1 WAS LOWER WHILE A2 WSS HIGHER.
I’M I IN ORDER OR THERE’S MISTAKE SOMEWHERE.
Hi Stephanie, I just used this pattern again a few weeks ago and didn’t encounter that problem. The pattern hasn’t been altered, so I’m wondering if this is a printer error?
Lovely pattern. FYI, the instructions say “sew K to J” but there is no K in the pattern. Thanks!
Hi there! Thanks for pointing that out, the instructions are updated. 😀
After opening this pdf I had to come back immediately just to give you kudos! I love how you guys have added the sizing charts to the patterns! Thank you so much. I hope you will consider doing this for all of your patterns going forward, it would be awesome to see the other patterns updated to reflect this, but I know that that is a tall order. XD
Lovely dress. Will definitely try it out.
Nice
Buenas tarde soy Lorena de Ecuador, felicitaciones por tan bello modelo de vestido. Una pregunta para obtener lis moldes gratis debo ser cliente de tu tienda? Desde ya mil gracias
Hola Lorena! Los moldes son gratis para todos, solo tienes que bajarlo y imprimir. Gracias!
Hi, I did the right thing and made a muslin for fit of top portion. I can see by photo that this dress fits model very well but the bust section doesn’t quite fit my 38″ bust. Guessing this just covers a B cup. I made a size 12 which sits in my measurements. Looks like I will need to add at least 2 more inches to fit my bust in front panel. Love the dress all the same though!
Love this pattern, thank you so much!!
I had to make the bust part a little bit bigger ( according to the size chart I would say I am a 4 with 160 cm and 60 kg) and also the curve on the bodie had to be a bit larger but everything went great!
Really getting started on this. Making it as a semi formal for my daughter. She wants the bodice in red with a lace overlay. Would this work if I did all the seams as French seams. I keep reading through instructions and I’m trying to visualize how to make it work. Thanks for any help.
Hi Janie! We did French seams for the majority of this dress due to the tendency of the silk to fray. It can definitely work! 😀
im confused on how to put this together is there a youtube tutorial similar to this pattern or one that i on here, and would cutting down the skirt length be an okay way to shorten it as i dont like long dresses :), (sorry for the questions this is my first dress ive mde
Hi Greta, in order to keep our patterns free, we cannot offer full tutorials at the moment. This pattern would not be considered a beginner project. To shorten the length, you could simply draw a perpendicular line to the grainline to use as a guide. Cut along this line and determine how much you need to shorten the skirt. Overlap and tape the pieces back together with the new adjustment. In the meantime, here are some great beginner sewing patterns to try! 🙂
This is a gorgeous dress! I would love to make it, maybe as a skirt set. Should I consider adding a waistband? Do you have an approximation of how much fabric was used in the skirt? Thank you!
Hi Jenn, I think it would look great as a skirt set! I suggest approximately 3 yards of fabric for the skirt. Yes, use a waistband and don’t forget you’ll need two zippers! 🙂
hola, quisiera que me aclararas una duda. no se como armar el busto. si alguien me puede ayudar.
Any idea how much fabric I would need if I were to make just the top, without the skirt? Thank you in advance!
Hello Rosa, I suggest 2 yards for the top! The pages for the top are 4-13, 16-18, 22, 23, 27, 28, 29-34. Happy sewing! 🙂
Bonjour, je fais un 38 taille française pour le haut et 36 pour le bas. A quelle taille cela correspond sur vos patrons svp
Merci
Bonjour, Christine! Nous vous suggérons de mesurer votre corps et de consulter notre tableau des tailles. 🙂
Thank you so much for all your amazing free patterns! I haven’t sewn for a long time and didn’t know where to start, so this is going to help me so much. I’m super excited and can’t wait to use them! Absolutely love your website, thank you!
This is the prettiest pattern of all mood’s pattern, and that is saying something considering how many stunning patterns there are on here <3 Currently making it for the second time but with a full length gathered skirt <3 thank you so much for this amazing pattern!
Thank you, Gunnhild! It’s one of our favorites too 🙂
Love this pattern. Super fun and easy. I just got tripped up with the self facing ( they were just described as bodice pieces). Made a few silly mistakes but that’s what instructions are for. Thanks!!
How did you attach the interfacing bodice to the skirt? Or is it free and just finished on the edge?
Hi Olivya! Sew the skirt to the bodice self (leave the lining free), right sides together. Trim the seam allowance and press towards the bodice. Then press the bodice lining under, just enough to overlap the seam that was just sewn. Stitch in the ditch (sew the folded lining into the seam so it’s undetectable from the right side out). I like to use that method because it hides the raw edge between the layers and creates a nice finished look.
But if that’s a little too difficult, you can always just sew the bodice self & lining directly to the skirt! The seam will be exposed inside the garment though, so either serge the raw edge or hand stitch some bias tape to cover it!
This question and answer are very helpful to me. Additionally, how do you insert the zipper in the bodice portion? As to the sewing instructions, I follow what’s here on the web page. Am I missing something? Is there also a downloadable set of instructions that would have shown how the zipper is handled in the bodice?
I do love this dress!!! I am making it for my daughter. I am going slowly though. I’ll share it on Facebook when it’s done.
Thank you!
Hi Kathryn, I usually baste the zipper onto the self. Then I flip the lining to the outside, so the right sides of the lining and self are together, then I sew the zipper between the two layers. Turn right side out and press. 🙂
Puedo imprimir mi patrón en tamaño carta?
Hola Wendy, los patrones gratis solo se imprimen en A4.
Is there a place we could see everyone’s creations they’ve made with mood fabrics patterns?! I’d love to see what everyone else does with them.
Hi Dana! You can find everyone’s creations by using the hashtag #madewithmood, and by joining the Mood Sewciety Facebook group! It’s a great spot to see what everyone is making. 🙂
This dress is amazing! But I’m thinking about just making it into a top! But I’m a C cup, so I’m not sure how I would be able to make this dress
Hi Charlotte, we are currently working on making this into a top! Expect a post soon. As far as a C cup, the gathered bust piece uses quite a lot of fabric. If you find yourself wanting more coverage height wise, add it to the Bust Panel and the top edge of the Side Front Bodice (where the bust panel gets sewn on). Definitely make a mock up first. 🙂
hey .im a size 26 (according to the chart) with a 51 1/2′ bust, will the finished size accommodate my large chest? the chart says it will but you are the expert. so..
Hi Brooke! It should fit your bust, but if you’re nervous and you want to be extra sure, I suggest making a mock-up!
Hi there! I’ll try to find right words to ask my question Are the hem allowances included in the pattern or do they need to be added?
All of our patterns have a 1/2″ seam allowance included! 🙂
Someone on Etsy has stolen this pattern and is selling it. They have stolen your exact pictures and even the description of the dress. https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/1333505218/the-milkmaid-dress-sewing-pattern?click_key=e715a6ee4c14577eb707e2a2609ed06729673ba1%3A1333505218&click_sum=511fb134&ref=shop_home_recs_1&crt=1
Hi Ellie, thank you so much for bringing that to our attention! 🙂
Thank you very much for the wonderful pattern I really enjoy this one. Thumbs up for the Mood Sewciety Family
Hello, thank you for the pattern. I have a question. If I want to make the skirt shorter, maybe half than the pattern, how many meters of fabric do I need in total?
Hi Chrys, I think you could get away with half a yard less? I like to err on the side of caution with these things. For an exact amount, I’d measure the skirt pattern. 🙂
Trust the process for this one! It is definitely not a beginner project, and the lining installation is a bit tricky, but it’s so worth it. I have a habit of deviating from the instructions when I’m more confident about a project but I’m so glad I stuck to them on this one.
Hello! I’m trying to make this dress and am stuck on the gathered bust piece. I can’t figure out how to attach it with the shape that it is. I also can’t figure it out how to gather the fabric.
Hi Brooke! Make sure you fold the bust panel in half lengthwise, before you begin gathering. Take a look at the pattern piece to see the line that says “fold down for casing” if you need to a visual! Then baste stitch those two layers together, between notches, 1/4″ away from the raw edge. Then baste again, this time 1/2″ away from the raw edge. Take a thread tail from each row of basted stitches, and pull to gather up the fabric. Evenly distribute the gathers between the notches, then sew to the bodice. If you need more info on how to sew gathers, check out our handy tutorial here! 🙂
Hey, love your pattern but I’m having a bit of a problem. After gathering the bottom part of the A bust panel it is way too long and doesn’t seem like it will attach properly to the rest of the bodice. I gathered between the notches on the part where it curves in a bit. Was I supposed to gather the sides as well? But I feel like that doesn’t make sense either? I don’t really know what went wrong here. Me and my teacher have been trying to figure it out but can’t get it.
Hi Chloe! I’m sorry you’re having trouble with this part! The sides of the panel are not gathered. Did you fold the bust panel in half lengthwise first? When you gather the panel, you should be gathering two layers of fabric together, not one. The bust panel is very generously gathered.
Oh yeah I folded it the wrong way. Thanks so much for the help!
Definitely test with muslin first especially if you are short or tall. I’m just a tiny bit over 5ft tall and went with bust measurements as a guide rather than the waist. My torso is shorter so my waist sits higher than the pattern. I also had to shorten the shoulder straps. For those who do not want the leg slit just make a circle skirt according to your measurements and prefered length. You save so much more time and possibly fabric because the fabric does not get eaten up by seam allowances.
The instructions are very hard to fallow, can someone please help?
Hi Tola, is there a specific section you need help with? I’m always happy to answer questions! Also, you might find our Mood Sewciety Facebook group a to be a great resource! It has a lot of active users, and this has been a popular dress that’s been discussed. I should also note, this dress is not for the faint of heart! It’s an advanced pattern, so just take your time with it and sew a muslin first! 🙂
I would rate this dress 3.5/5stars. It is a beautiful dress and it’s incredible that we all get this pattern for free! The instructions could have been a little more in-depth, but my main problem was I cut out my size, according to the size chart (also it’s just my size in all clothes) but I found when I tried the bodice on it was wayy too big, and I had to modify the bodice a lot to get it smaller. Also with the skirt I literally just left out two pieces or sections because I tried it around my waist and It fit perfect without them. Is the pattern including seam allowance? Anyway, the final result was beautiful and I’m sure I’ll be downloading more patterns in the future and referring this website to friends.
This is something I really want to try making, but I’m curious, what if I wanted to make it into a jumpsuit instead? What pants pattern would you recommend would go with this?
Hi Bryna! I think this would make a great jumpsuit top! I’d recommend our Liv Pants or Calamint Jeans. They would be the easiest to attach because the waists don’t contain gathers or lots of pleats. Omit the zipper fly and just sew up the center seam instead (sew the invisible zipper in the back or side seam!) The pleat in the Liv pants can easily be taken out of the pattern, and the silhouette can be adjusted if you don’t want wide leg pants!
What size of paper can I print this pattern on?
Hello! This pattern can be printed on US and A4 size paper 🙂
Hi, I would love to sew this pattern but the download does not work for me. Is there any way I can still get it?
Hi Daphne, if you’re still unable to download the pattern, email info@moodfabrics.com and they’ll send it over!
Hi,
I am a little confused about the zipper. How long would it need to be.
I am 5′ 3″ and am making a shorter dress.
Would my zipper then be able to be shorter?
Hi Grace, the garment needs to open enough for the dress to comfortably fit over your shoulders or hips. 16″ zippers are commonly used for dresses. If you can’t find that length, buy a longer zipper and trim it has been sewn in. 🙂
I am making a muslin at the moment, but I am really confused about the lining and adding the sleeves. When it says to sew the top of the bodice together (step 3), it is only showing the part on the back bodice. Now I am up to attaching the sleeves, but the lining is still loose inside the bodice. If I treat the lining and fashion fabric as one now while attaching the sleeves, I have raw edges where the strap attaches to the front bodice piece (the back is enclosed). Should I have stitched the top of the front bodice pieces together too? Thanks!
Hi Jo! I’m sorry that section was a bit confusing. I’ve rewritten it for a little more clarity. At this step, the back/side bodice should be stitched together only along the top of the back, starting from the center back, sewing all the way through back strap. Stop at the armscye, and then sew again just at the front strap. The armscye and side bust should be open at this point. In the picture above step 3, you’ll see the stitch lines (disregard the temporary zig zag stitches on the vertical CB line).
Hopefully that helps!
how much fabric would you roughly need for just the bodice ?
Hi Lily, I recommend 2 yards for the top!
Hi, hi~ I’m really excited to sew this pattern but I have a small question. Does the pattern include seam allowance?
Hello Diana! Yes, all of our patterns include a 1/2″ seam allowance unless otherwise stated!
Hello I just finished the dress. I’m a size 8 but I cut the size 12 to be sure. But like I always when I use pattern on this website it’s 2-3 size too small! I don’t understand why! I cut 2 size bigger but it’s 3 sizes smaller! All the pattern do this all the time! I use 0,5cm of seam allowance…. Can you help me? I spent 6 hours to make sure that this pattern gonna be good… But nope!
Hi Celyne! This could be a number of issues, but I will say that our patterns being too small isn’t a common complaint, especially for this pattern! What kind of fabric are you using? Did you sew a muslin first? When you choose your size, are you using the Finished Garment Measurements? If you choose your size by that chart, just remember that you want some amount of ease. Also, are you using the correct seam allowance all around? If you’re off even an 1/8 of an inch it can affect the finished garment measurements. Another cause could be that the correct size line isn’t being cut. On places where all the cut lines merge, like curves, I can sometimes cut the wrong size because after a while all the lines look the same! Thankfully this is something we’re changing for all our new patterns moving forward!
Hi. I have requested for the pattern to be forwarded to myself several times, but nothing happens. Could someone please assist
Hi Celeste, email info@moodfabrics.com and they’ll send the pattern over!
Third time I use a mood fabric pattern and I am so excited ! This dress fit so good, I use a size 8 . I just reduce the lenght of the sleeves and add a ribbon in the back to thight my waist. Thanks ♡
Hi Marylou! We’re thrilled that you’re happy with your new dress!
I don’t see instructions on how to sew the skirt onto the bodice, I’m at that point now. Do I just sew it right sides together? Do I include the lining?
Hi Brigid, thanks for catching that! Pin the skirt to the bodice self, at the waist, right sides together. Sew. Press the seam allowance towards the bodice. Fold the bottom edge of the lining under, and press, so its folded edge extends just beyond the seam. Stitch in the ditch.
Hiya, I just wanted to ask if I could use a crepe fabric for this dress? I’m just trying to use up my leftover fabrics, cos I can’t afford more lol
Hi Rua! That would work well! You may want to add some interfacing at the bodice for some extra structure.
Hi! Wondering if you think a cotton gauze would work well for this project, lined with something heavier. Or if you think it would be too flimsy
Hi Darby! That could work well. Yes, line the bodice with a good interfacing, or you could add boning to the seams for a more corseted look!
Hello! I would love to ask if the fabric yard measurements are for all sizes? And your pattern is gorgeous! Can’t wait to make it! ❤️
Also would love to ask, if you can sew this dress without the lining?
You can! Just make sure to finish the seams so there’s no fraying.
Hi Adriana! Use the Shop This Look box to find the fabric estimates for each size. 🙂
Hiya,
Is there a simple way to make this sleeveless?
Many thanks
Hi Bea, yes this would be easy to make sleeveless! Take a shoulder strap and fold it lengthwise, right sides together. Sew along the long edge. Turn right side out and press. Now you’ve got a finished shoulder strap!
Hola, alguien me podría decir en qué sistema métrico están las medidas, soy de México, muchas gracias por el patrón es hermoso
Muchas gracias Melissa! Las medidas son por pulgadas.
Love this dress! Used it as a base for my daughters prom dress, it looked stunning and she got so many compliments for it. Made a version with floorlength skirt, long arms with cuffs and open back with stringing! I made it in dark green microsatin.
Hi Elin, that sounds beautiful!
Hi! I wanted to ask about the bust casing. There’s a ‘fold down for casing’ instruction, but what makes me confused is that there’s one line through the middle but also two lines parallel to it. Do I fold it in half? If so, what do the two additional lines indicate? Thanks!
Hi Monika, yes, fold right sides together on the center line. Once folded, those two lines will essentially become one line – your stitch line for the casing. But make sure that if you’re adding buttonholes for a drawstring, you do so BEFORE you fold and sew. 🙂
My name is Anthea so I obviously need to make this dress!! I’m so exited!
I love that!! Happy sewing! 🙂
I practically sewed this dress and it’s insanely beautiful!! But I can’t figure out how to complete the top and sew the panel A
Hi Anastasia, what part about sewing panel A has you stumped? I can try to help!
Is there a way to do this project without extra lining? (I’m using cotton material). If so, do I only cut 2 pieces? Ex. For the side front bodice would I only cut 2 mirrored pairs or would I still cut out the lining pieces? Also I’m newish to sewing so if there’s any tips for this particular piece let me know!
Hi Riya! Yes, if you’re using cotton then you can get away without making a lining, but keep in mind you’ll the zipper will be exposed on the inside of the dress.
Maybe you can give an example of how to assemble the skirt of this model. Thank you
Hi Alma, the instructions have been updated!
How attatch back bodice and side back bodice, it doesnt fit like other ones!
Hi Laura, we haven’t gotten this feedback before. Pieces F & G should fit together without any issues. Feel free to send us pictures of the problem at patterns@moodfabrics.com so we can help troubleshoot it!
Hi I’m confused by the skirt construction. I have 4 J pieces but it either only mentions two or leaves the sides open? Am I right in thinking it is I-J-J-H-J-J-I? With the I’s meeting in the back? Thank you!!!
Hi Libby, yes, you’ve got the order correct! I’ll take a look at the instructions and revise for clarity. Thank you!
hey i just wanted to point out that on piece J it says “cut 4 mirrored pairs” and maybe its cause i love big skirts but i took that as cut 4 pairs of the pattern piece rather than 2 pairs making 4 pieces. it may be cause its common practice in Australian pattern making.
Thank you so much, Piper! We will look into this 🙂
Hi, I would love to make this dress but I have C cup and I scared that the patter will be little for me, so I will love to have help in understanding how to adjust it.
And I have to change something if I would like to use a thiker fabric? Maybe bigger size?
Thank you
Hi Ilaria, this pattern was drafted for a B cup, so you really might be able to get away with it. Make a quick muslin of the bodice to see how it fits as-is. If you need to make adjustments, I would try redrawing the bust/underbust line on pieces B & C. Carve it out a little more and bring down. You may need to also adjust A vertically for a little more coverage. Definitely make a muslin first!
Hi, I can’t seem to find the notches on the I piece for the zip, so I was just wondering how far down the skirt it goes?
Hi Chloe, thanks for pointing that out.
Hi, I’m pretty new to sewing and I had a few questions. I was wondering if I would still need 5-6 yards of fabric if I was using a cotton fabric instead of silk. Can I get away with using just 3 yards of fabric and not making a lining instead? And is it possible for me to make this long sleeve or on-the-shoulder? Thanks so much!
Hi Soona! Unfortunately you won’t be able to sew the whole dress with just 3 yards. The skirt alone requires about 3 yards of fabric.
how many hours of work would it take to sew this dress?
Hi Samantha, we’re sorry for the delay in responding to your question! We get dozens of comments and questions each day, and so many questions get buried and, unfortunately, unanswered. As this is an advanced pattern, for someone who is an advanced sewist could complete this pattern within two days.
I made this dress for my granddaughter. I did widen the straps and added a ruffle to the straps to help hide her bra straps. She wanted a circle skirt so I self drafted one and it turned out beautiful, I wish I could send you a pic but I see no way to attach a picture. Thank you for the pattern.
I did leave a couple of pics on the fb page. This dress pattern is so beautiful, and I plan to make more of this and other Mood patterns as well. THANK YOU
We’re so glad you loved the pattern Pat! Thank you for sharing 🙂
Hello, I’ve made a muslin of the bodice section in a size 10, but the bust piece sits on top of the breasts instead of below. To fix this, do I simply elongate the bust panel by a few inches, or will I need to adjust the curve of pieces B and C as well? If I do need to adjust B and C, how would I go about doing that?
Hi Rory, we’re sorry for the delay in responding to your question! We get dozens of comments and questions each day, and so many questions get buried and, unfortunately, unanswered. This pattern was drafted for a B cup, so it most likely sounds like you’ll need to do a full bust adjustment. We have a infographic here that you can take a look at, but a FBA on this pattern will be a little more advanced than most. Alternatively, if the bust panel fits you well as-is, and you’re wary of doing this FBA, you could try to lengthen the shoulder strap and lower the curve of the bust on those front ribcage pieces. Definitely experiment with muslin first!
Hello! I just downloaded the pattern, but I wonder how I’m supposed to only show one size to print? Right now there’s a lot of lines and I don’t know if it’s supposed to be like that or if there’s a way to only show the one for the dedicated size? I have tried searching for information about this but I can’t find it anywhere.
Hi Sigrid, the pattern will show all sizes (00-32); using the size key to identify the size you need. Unfortunately, we cannot offer individual files of sizes on our free patterns.
Hello,
I have a problem with the sleeves. I sewed the top part with basting stitches and left free room on the left and right side. From then on I don’t understand what to do next? Also we need to insert an elastic?
Would be good if someone could explain how to sew that part.
Lovely greeting
Chris
Hello, you can watch our tutorial video on How To Sew The Anthea Dress here!
Hello! I am trying to print the pattern, but having issues. I’m able to get the first page to print where the logo is 2″, but the remainder of the pattern seems to have edges missing after print, so it doesn’t line up correctly. I’ve followed the instructions on the page to a T, but to no avail. I’m using US Letter paper, and I have a feeling that may be the issue. Any suggestions?
Hi Madison, we’re sorry you’re having trouble with printing the pattern! I just printed a test page and everything seems to be printing at the correct scale, so it sounds like a printer issue. I recommend playing around with the scale. If you can’t quite get it right, and it’s just a centimeter off, I wouldn’t worry about it. Our patterns are formatted for US letter and A4 format.
you don’t need a full 5 yards of fabric i’m a size 10 and i only used 3 yards
Hi,
Thank you for the free pattern – I really enjoyed making this dress and the creative process around it. If you want to sew this dress with me and see how my dress turned out, you can find it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1fFxXpL0dg
Hello! The download link doesn’t seem to work for me
Download Instructions for opening older Mood Fabrics Free Sewing Patterns:
For older patterns, when opening the download link shared to your email, the link opens to a new page which looks like the screenshot below.
Scroll down, then click on the orange box titled “Click here to Download Your Free Sewing Pattern”.
A new tab will open in your browser that will contain the PDF pattern.
If you want to download the pattern to your device, you will need to click on the download icon.
Happy Sewing!
The MoodSewciety Team
Hi, I’m a beginner and im wondering how to resize the bust up to a DD, would that be too complicated?
Hello, you can watch our tutorial here which explains how to make a bust size adjustment.
Hello!
The sleeves’ tutorial is a little bit confusing for a beginner, I struggled quite a lot when I was making them lol. I would be great if we can have more detailed step-by-step process as it will be easier for beginners to follow.
Hello, you can watch our tutorial video on How To Sew The Anthea Dress here!
Hi! I´m trying to get the pattern for this dress, but I haven´t recieved it in my e-mail, there is no link to open, no file to download, nothing.. Is there a way for someone to send it directly to me? My e-mail is isadoradeassispaiva@gmail.com
Hello, Please email info@moodfabrics.com for any issues with pattern downloads.
Hi! Can I use sateen for this dress?
Yes, Sateen would work well for this pattern!
I think the instructions aren’t enough. Maybe because it’s a simple dress but if I was a beginner I would struggle to understand what’s happening. Even for simplest parts like the skirt.
Hello, please take a look at our youtube tutorial for sewing The Anthea Dress.
Bonjour !
Superbe robe faite avec du viscose pour un effet léger !
J’ai une taille de bonnet D donc au vu des autres commentaires il faut faire une toile et un ajustement pour une perfection…
Mais je la porte quand même car elle est magnifique !
Merci pour ce patron
Before I make this dress my one concern is that the bust line won’t be right, and I don’t have the knowledge to fix that issue, other comments were saying that this pattern is made for b or c cup size. Now I’m pretty small, but happen to wear b-d cup size, based on your knowledge will the bust line without adjustments be ok?
Hello, if you have any concerns, you can watch our youtube sewing tutorial which includes how to make a bust size adjustment.
My skirt and bodice seams didn’t line up at all so I ended up making this as 2 separate pieces
We are sorry to hear the seams didn’t line up, but we are glad you were able to compromise by making it a 2 piece ensemble!
Absolutely love the dress but it came out a couple sizes too big and can’t seem to find where I went wrong. My friend has fallen in love with it though so she’ll be taking it. Advanced beginner friendly, definitely recommend but make a muslin first.