DIY Peter Pan Collar Christmas Tablecloth Dress

One of my favorite things I can remember from Christmas when I was little were the Christmas dresses my mom would make me. My favorite dress was from when I was about seven, she made me a little plaid knee length dress with puff sleeves and a white peter pan collar. The best thing about this dress was that there was a full removable bib that went over the bodice of the dress and had a hand stitched reindeer on it. It was special to me not only because it was so cute, but also because my mom made it special for me for the holidays and a special school concert. I have been wanting to make a plaid Christmas dress for years to wear at the holidays. A little while ago I saw this fun plaid holiday tablecloth at Marshalls and decided it would be perfect for my dress!

I used a McCall’s pattern, number 7083. I followed the pattern for the bodice exactly. Instead of making pleats in the skirt I just gathered the skirt, that many pleats are not flattering on me. To make the gathered skirt, you cut out the pattern for the skirt just like you would the pleated one. You will stitch your front to the back at the side seams. Then you will need to stitch a basting stitch from the end to the side seam, then from the side seam to the other side seam, and then from the other side seam to the other end. Pull on the top string and scooch the fabric to gather it. Gather the skirt to fit the bottom of the bodice. Then stitch the skirt to the bodice right sides together. Finish the back and zipper as per the instructions. For the collar I used a vintage style tea towel I picked up at the flea market.

I am really pretty happy with how my dress turned out! It was easy to make, and only took me a few hours. I love using tablecloths for skirts and dresses since they are so budget friendly. This dress cost me around fifteen dollars to make. I think I am going to wear it for our Christmas pictures this year. I hope my little post has inspired some of you to make a special tablecloth dress of your own for Christmas or for your favorite little gals. I’ll be back soon with another fun diy. Until then…

Happy Crafting!