A couple of years ago I purchased a bolt of Irish linen manufactured by Belfast Mills. The linen is off-white with a beautiful feel and nice light weight; probably produced in the 30s or 40s, but possibly earlier. I’ve been hesitating to cut into it, but I finally got up the courage.
The machine appliqued apron motifs were cut from a piece of vintage novelty chintz, and the dress was made with new fabric that I think has a vintage look. It was a nice surprise that my local Joann’s has begun carrying some good quality cotton fabrics. There were several designs I liked, and it gave me an opportunity to use some of those ubiquitous coupons.
This dress and apron were made using a vintage size 3 pattern, although I made a few changes. The pattern pieces (dress and apron) were lengthened by several inches, since contemporary toddler dresses are worn a bit longer than their vintage counterparts, and I added the scalloped edge. The entire yoke is faced so it has a finished look inside, which these patterns almost never call for and which I don’t understand at all. There is a 4 1/2″ hand stitched hem.
Belfast Mills Label
That’s the same print I used for the baby aster binding. 🙂
So cute!
Unbelievably beautiful. Wish my little girl was small enough to wear it. Truly an heirloom piece…smiles…Renee
Wonderful! Beautiful work, Martha!
Martha, did you close your etsy shop? I was just looking for it and couldn’t find it. I’ve got nothing to blog about, can I blog about your blog? Just asking as it is my favorite-est blog in the world.
Oh Martha!!! Just wonderful! The dress fabric is perfect. I am shocked and pleasantly surprised it was from Joann’s. Historically double pinks were so popular was because they hid the dirt so well in little dresses. I would think this print would achieve the same goal with the floral design…..which is why it is PERFECT!!
Oh how cute! You have such a talent for using the perfect fabric combos. The apron is darling. I love that even the back straps are decorated and those red buttons…adorable. 🙂
This is sew cute I can’t believe it. Good for you!
Martha. This is so adorable! I absolutely love it. And the fabric from JoAnn’s is beautiful. I think it is perfect with the apron.Great job!
Simply adorable! Wish I had a little granddaughter to sew for….sigh…..
Hi Martha – Just checked your blog and I’m headed to Joann’s!
I have come back to admire this apron once again – it is the most beautiful one that I have ever seen. One day I will give this a try…when feeling brave!
Best wishes
Jenny