Beautiful model Loki demonstrates the Gift Wrapped Dress

It’s just a basic toddler’s dress pattern with the skirt box pleated along the plaid pattern and gold fabric appliqué to give the effect of being gift wrapped. The bow was added last with some sturdy embroidery thread after being reinforced with Stitch Witchery to withstand the almost certain firm tugging it will receive from tiny little fingers.

This was the first completely handmade dress I’ve sewn, and it was a blast to make. I couldn’t resist the shiny green and red plaid fabric at the store, and it works well for a holiday dress.

Hm. Now she needs something for New Year’s . . .

The starting point: Butterick B4110, a great pattern for beginner or experienced sewers with a lot of different options.

The twist: Calico appliqués to repeat the carrot, turnip and beet motif on the shoes. Stitch witchery + embroidery thread to secure the appliqué pieces, and we’re in business.

The finishing touches: Velcro closures on the back, since babies spend a lot of time on their backs and don’t need buttons digging into them, a pair of britches to go underneath, a crocheted sun hat, and we have the trimmings for the most styling little bean under the sun.