I have had the Carnaby printed off and ready to use for just over a year and last week I finally got the push I needed to finally sew it. I had a virtual sewing session (thank you, isolation!) with 2 of my sewing friends – Mel and Joy – and we all made a Carnaby dress each.
It’s a great shift dress pattern and very simple to make. I even omitted the zip, so I didn’t have to concern myself with any closures. Mine is a straight size 10 but I sewed the sleeves at 1cm instead of 1.5cm because I have wide upper arms. I also hemmed at 3cm instead of the what the pattern calls for – I can’t remember exactly what it is but it’s slightly more.
I enjoyed sewing this but I thought the instructions were a bit lacking. I’m not sure if this pattern has been re-released but it probably could do with some editing. I had to unpick a section of my pocket when I realised I wouldn’t be able to overlock the edge after it was constructed, like the pattern suggested. The sleeve easing was also tricky to do and I ended up with a couple of puckers.
Overall though, I am very happy with the dress and I will be making another one. It was finished in one afternoon and it was just the distraction I needed in these weird times we’re living through.