Vintage Crafts- Using a Retro Pattern to Make a Dress From a Vintage Tablecloth
Hi guys! I know in my vintage posts I usually share a diy from a magazine. Well, today I am going to do something a little different and share a little easy how to on how to make a dress from a vintage tablecloth with a retro sewing pattern.
I used a large rectangular embroidered vintage tablecloth and the Retro Butterick pattern 5748. There are so many awesome vintage reproduction sewing patterns on the market today! I love them because they always have plus sizes, so I don’t have to redraft an entire pattern, I can just cut and go.Â
I used a large vintage embroidered tablecloth. I cut the bodice front and back from the top edge. I tried to place the pattern where the embroidery design would be the same and the pieces would fit pretty seamlessly across the bodice. I cut the bodice linings out of plain white broadcloth I had on hand. I did not use the skirt pattern pieces. Instead I measured from my waist to where I wanted the hem to lay. Then I added 1/2″ to the measurement for seam allowance to sew the skirt to the bodice. To cut the skirt I measured up from the bottom side of the tablecloth up the previous measurement all the way across and mark. Cut across where marked forming a long skinny rectangle you will use for your skirt. Stitch the bodice up according to the directions. When you get to the skirt, stitch up the ends to where the zipper will go. You will now have a loop. Stitch a basting stitch across the top of the front and then across the back to the side seam areas. Then stitch another basting stitch right below the first. Gather your skirt. Pin to the bodice and sew to the bodice. Remove basting. Add your side zipper at the side seam according to directions. Then stitch down the lining by hand around the zipper and skirt area.
I love love love my little sundress! I have used this pattern a couple of times now and it is always a fun dress to wear. The last one I made with a linen bodice and a tablecloth skirt. It looks like a boutique dress, but I spent around ten dollars for the tablecloth and the pattern I snagged on sale. The best part is that you can whip one up in an afternoon. It is really easy! I hope I have inspired some of you to grab out some of those old linens that may not be in perfect shape anymore and try using them to make a dress of your own! I’ll be back soon with more vintage fun. Until then…
Happy Crafting!
Now That came out really Cute!!
You did a really wonderful job! I love how you laid out the patter on the back of the dress:)
Thank you so much Daphne! This was so fun to make!
So creative and you look adorable in it!
Thank you so much Vickie! You’re so sweet!
Super cute dress! I think my mother had this pattern when I was little. I do love the vintage styles. It’s nice to see you having fun remembering the past.
Thanks Patti! I love vintage patterns! I have loads of them, but they are all for tiny people 😆
Darling!
Wow, that is a gorgeous dress, and you look great in it!
Thank you Deanna for your sweet comment! You made my day!
The tablecloth you picked was perfect. I like how you positioned the pattern of the tablecloth on your dress. Great choice for all of it. The edging on the skirt really set it off.
Your belt added the final touch.
Great job!
Thank you Janice! I was thrilled the placement worked out so well for me:)
Hi, love this dress. You and I look about the same size. Can you tell me the size of the tablecloth that you used?
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I wish I had measured it, but it fit a long table. I would say the normal rectangular size. A lot of vintage cloths are around 45 or 56 wide. I would say this one was probably around 70″ long. You can use a smaller cloth if you use a different fabric for the bodice. Hope this helps 🙂 Send me a pic if you make one, I’d love to see your lovely dress!
This is fantastic and beautiful! You have great ideas and (what I always struggle with) execution!
Thank you Jess! I struggle with execution too sometimes, especially when sewing:) Luckily it was an easy dress pattern
using a large rectangular border is a good thing to make a vintage crafts. the making process of this dress is really very creative. and i like to buy all the creative things. i must say, there are many crafts business owner but all are not creative. i found you are make creative one.
Thank you Bettie! You are so sweet!
I love your ideas and creativity!!!! Great job. The dogs are cute too. 🙂
Thank you Connie, you’re so sweet!