Paige: Free Apron {Add-on} + Tutorial

Free Apron for Paige VFT

More times than not, we find a pattern we love and make is over and over again.  One of our favorite patterns to sew is Paige.  We love Paige because not only is it versatile, but it has such a timeless look.  Sometimes, even our favorite patterns need a little makeover, and we can't wait to share with you a fantastic way to spice up your next Paige!

Paige with Apron

A Few weeks ago we teased you with photos of an adorable Paige dress with an apron.  So many of you were swooning over the photos, we knew we needed  to make this available to you all.  Without further ado, we are so excited to bring you a {FREE} apron add-on for Paige!   

Paige with Apron add-on

Paige Apron with lace

If you are looking for an easy way to use up some smaller cuts of fabrics, this pattern will be perfect!  It's also a great opportunity to add embellishments like lace, ric-rac, pom-poms, etc.  Add don't forget the buttons!

Paige Apron add-on

paige apron VFT

The Paige Apron Add-On + Tutorial is just like all other Violette Field Threads patterns.  Included are full size color photos, pattern pieces, and step by step cutting/sewing instructions.  And not only is the apron add-on super cute, it is super easy too!

Ruffled Paige bodice with apron VFT

Start by deciding which look you are going for.  Would you like to include ruffles/flounce, or leave it simple.  If you decide on adding the ruffles or flounce, you are going to follow your normal Paige instructions up to step 9.  Once you reach step 9, begin using the Apron Add-on directions at step 5.

Simple Paige bodice

Paige with apron

Keeping it simple?  Follow steps 1-4 of the Apron tutorial.  Either option is going to give you an adorable Paige dress that your little lady will cherish for a long long time.  For the rest of the instructions, follow the link below and download the tutorial.

Paige with apron VFT

Paige with Apron

With so many creative possibilities, we know you are going to love this add-on as much as we do!  Make sure to download your copy of the apron add-on here:  Paige Apron Pattern and Tutorial.  Don't forget to show off your amazing creations!  Tag us on Instagram, Twitter, and share over in our FB Group

July 17, 2016 by Emily Steiger

June Sew-a-Long {Day 5}

June day 5

Today is our final sewing day.  I can't wait to see all of the gorgeous dresses, but at the same time, we've had so much fun, I'm sad to see it end.  I guess we will just have to do another one soon!!  Let's head over to our machines and get started!

attach skirt pieces

Yesterday we left off after attaching our pockets to the side panels.  Grab both panels and the front skirt piece.  Lay your panels on top of your front center piece, right sides touching.  You panels will be at both raw edges of the front center piece.

sew sides

side seam

Pin in place and sew together.  Once sewn, the edge needs to be finished, so either trim and sew a zig zag stitch, or serge the SA.  Do this for both sides.

skirt pieces

finished edge

skirt sedge

Now take your back skirt piece and lay it down right side up.  Lay your piece with both the side an center front pieces you just sewed on top, right side down.  Sew the sides together and finish edges just like we did in the steps above.

hem

hem

You should have one skirt piece now!!  It's time to hem, so take it over to your iron.  We are going to iron 1/2", then turn up another 1/2".  Once ironed, take over to your machine and sew.

hemmed

lace

This is when I took a step back and realized I wasn't quite happy with how my dress was looking.  It was a tad to plain for my liking so I pulled back out that lace from Day 1 that I never used and decided to add it to the hem!  Now I am {LOVING} it!!!

gathered skirt

It's time to sew our gathering stitches.  I like to sew 2 rows of stitches for more even gathers.  Pull your bobbin threads and gather your skirt.  You want your skirt to be the same width ass your bodice.

bodice and skirt

Take your bodice and turn it wrong side out, so the right side is not showing.  Now put your bodice over the skirt, matching the raw edges.  Your bodice will be upside down.  Match your side seams of the bodice with the side seams of your skirt, even out your gathers, and pin your bodice and skirt.  Be cautious when pinning around the elastic panel in the back.  You are going to have to pull the panel straight so it's not gathered.

sewn bodice and skirt

finished edge

Take over to your machine and sew.  Take your time!  I like to gently pull my skirt down while I'm sewing and adjust it as I sew so that the gathers are even.  Once sewn, finish the raw edge with your preferred method.  

topstitch

June dress pdf

 Now take over to your ironing board and iron the SA up towards the bodice.  You can now turn the dress right side out and topstitch.  Guess what, sewing sisters??  We are {DONE}!!!!  

June dress pdf pattern VFT

June dress pdf pattern VFT

June dress pdf pattern

June dress with pockets VFT

June dress pdf VFT

Your June dress is ready to be worn, so find a little lady to model and get out that camera.  Make sure to add a photo into the Day 5 album!  I cannot wait to see all your gorgeous dresses, so share away in the FB group, on instagram, and on twitter!!!

June SAL

 I have had so much fun sewing with you all!  If you need to catch up still, you can find all the previous days here:  Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4.  And don't forget about our {AMAZING} Sew-a-Long prize!  1 lucky participant will win 5 VFT patterns along with a $50 gift card to Hawthorne Threads!!!  This is one prize you want to win, so make sure to get those daily photos in the albums!!  Winner will be chosen Monday, so check back here to see if you were the lucky winner!

 

July 15, 2016 by Emily Steiger

June Sew-A-Long {Day 4}

June sal day 4

Today is day 4, sewing friends.  Time is flying by and after today, we only have one more day of sewing.  Does it make you as sad as it makes me???  We have no time for tears though, because we need to get sewing, so turn on some tunes, put on some mindless tv, and let's get started!

back elastic piece

back elastic piece

back

Grab your back bodice piece.   You are going to fold this piece in half lengthwise, or hotdog style for those that use {hotdog/hamburger}.  Wrong sides should be touching when you fold in half.  

elastic casings

Make sure your fold is at the top and grab your ruler.  Measure down from the top fold 3/4" and mark all the way from one side to the other.  You can use disappearing ink, chalk, pins, whatever tickles your fancy!  Next measure 3/4" up from the bottom raw edge and mark all the way across.  Now, take your ruler and make a mark 3/4" up from the bottom marking.  You should now have 3 rows of markings. 

sew casings

Take over to your machine and sew along all 3 rows.  These will become your elastic casings.

insert elastic

first elastic casing

Take your elastic pieces you cut at the beginning of the sew-a-long.  It's time to insert these into the casings.  I like to use a safety pin or my bodkin for inserting elastics in casing.  Makes it super easy!  Take your first elastic and insert it into the top casing.  Pull so the elastic can be seen a tiny bit at the edge and baste in place.  Now pull the rest of the elastic through to the other end and baste in place.

elastic back

Now take your second elastic and put it through the bottom casing.  Do the same steps as above for this elastic  Once finished, your back bodice piece will look like the photo above!

bodice

pin raw edges together

It's time to attach the back to the front bodice so grab you front bodice and lay it out, right side down.  Lift up the lining pieces on the back so they are out of the way.  You should see the piece where you ironed your SA yesterday.  Take your back elastic piece you just sewed and line up the raw edge with the raw edge of the ironed SA.  Make sure you lay your piece right side down if you have a side you would prefer be seen.  Pin together.  Repeat for the opposite side.

pin both sides

Remember, your lining should be folded up out of the way during this part!  Now take it over to your machine and baste it together.  

flip lining down

sew along basting lines

Once it's basted, flip the lining down so it covers the seam you just sewed.  This will encase the raw edge.  Pin and sew along both sides.  At this point you can topstitch around the back and neckline if you'd like.  Take out your basting stitches from earlier for a cleaner look.

sewing side seams

 Now we need to finish the side seams.  Place the bodice sides together, right sides touching.  Open up your fabric so only the main fabrics are touching each other and the lining fabrics are touching each other.  This will create the finished underarm.  Pin along this edge and sew.  

sewn side

Underarm/side seam

bodice

Trim the SA and iron flat.  Repeat all those steps for the other side seam.  And voila!  Your bodice is complete!!  Give yourself a pat on the back!

pockets

pocket pieces

Let's move on to the pockets shall we??  Grab 2 pocket pieces, 1 lining and one main fabric, and place right sides together.  

pin pocket pieces

trim SA

turn pocket

Pin along the top and bottom of the pocket piece.  Do not pin along the angled side edges.  Sew along both edges, trim the SA, and turn right side out.  

piping

pocket

If you'd like your pocket to have the look of piping, roll the lining up 1/4" and then iron.  This will give the look of piping at the top.  Iron the rest of the pocket flat and topstitch if desired.

pockets

skirt side panels

Repeat these steps with the other pocket piece.  You will now have 2 pocket pieces!  WOO HOO!!  Now grab your side skirt pieces.

skirt and pocket

 

Take out your ruler and measure down using the chart in the pattern, or use the notches on the pattern piece.  This is where you will place your pockets.  You pocket top edge will be wider than the side skirt piece.  This ensures the pocket will stay open once it is sewn.

pockets

pockets

Pin both pocket pieces to the side skirt panels.  I like to check placement before I sew by laying both pieces next to each other.  Baste the pocket pieces in place.

sewn pockets

Now sew the bottom of the pocket to the side skirt piece.  Repeat for the other pocket, and there you have it!  Two side panels with pockets!  

bodice and skirt side panels

You should now have a finished bodice and 2 side skirt pieces ready to go for tomorrow!  Grab that camera because it's time to take a photo!  Head over to the Day 4 album and show off what you've made!  We can't wait to see all the beautiful creations! 

June SAL schedule

If you need to catch up, you can find our previous days here: Day 1, Day 2, Day 3.  Tomorrow is the last official sewing day of our June Sew-a-Long!  I'm sad to see it end but am looking forward to seeing all your gorgeous dresses!  See you back here tomorrow!

 

 

 

July 14, 2016 by Emily Steiger

June Sew-A-Long {Day 3}

Day 3 June SAL

The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and it's the perfect day to sew!  With a heat wave here in Michigan, temps are in the 90's and this pregnant Mama is staying indoors!  After 2 days we are {finally} ready to start sewing!  It's day 3 ladies, can you believe how fast this SAL is flying by?!?!? It's time to get sewing so lets head over to our machines!

day 3

First things first, {COFFEE}!!!!  Yes, you heard me right.  I don't sleep much these days, so for this SAL to function properly, I need a little morning fuel!  Grab whatever your sewing vice is, and your fabrics, because here we go!

We are going to start with the ties.  If you are using ribbon, lace trim, hold tight.  If you are using fabric, take one of your ties and fold it in half, right sides touching, matching up the raw edges.  Sew along one short side and the long raw edge side.  Repeat for the remaining tie.  Once both are sewn, trim your SA and clip your corners.  Turn both ties right side out.  I like to use my handy dandy tube turners here!!  Makes turning tubes so much easier!

Main bodice fabric

trim SA

Now, take your main bodice fabrics, both front and backs, and place right sides together, matching up the shoulder seams.  Sew together, trim SA, and iron seams open flat.   You've now got the start of your bodice!

lining fabrics

Follow the same steps for the lining fabrics!  You will end up with 2 bodices, main and lining fabrics.  This is the time to add in your bodice embellishments if you so choose.  Remember that gorgeous lace I posted a few days ago??  I decided that it covered way too much of the bodice and I wasn't happy with the look, so no embellishments for me this time!  Go ahead and add yours in now!

baste ties

sew ties in place

Grab your ties, ribbon, lace, or whatever you are using for your ties and place on the back bodice.  The ties are going to be placed on the short straight edge that is between the neckline and the angled back edge.  Center your ties on both straight edges and baste in place.

pin bodices

Now it's time to sew our main and lining fabrics together.  Place the bodices, right sides together and pin starting at the notch on one side of the back bodice, up and around the neckline, and back down the other side to the second notch.  Pin around both armholes.  When you are pinning, be very cautious that your ties are out of the way.  I like to accordion fold my ties and pin them to the bodice to ensure they don't get caught when I'm sewing.

sew bodice

trim sa

Sew together along the pinned areas.  Once you are done, trim your SA and clip the curves and corners.  I like to use my pinking shears here.  Makes life so much easier!

bodice turned

front bodice

Turn your bodice right side out now.  This can be a little tricky, but don't give up!  I promise you will be able to turn it, just take your time!  Once it's turned, iron, but {DO NOT} top stitch!!  

iron back bodice sa

Remember where we stopped sewing on the bodice at the notches?  Now we are going to iron the SA below the notches in 1/2in.  Do this on both sides, for both the main and lining fabrics.  

bodice front

bodice back

It's now time to step back and marvel at your gorgeous June bodice!!  We are done with Day 3, so grab your camera and snap a photo.  Make sure to add it into the Day 3 Album!    

June SAL schedule

If you are just joining us now or need to catch up, you can find the links here: Day 1, Day 2.  Check back in tomorrow.  We will be working on finishing our bodices and starting on our pockets!  

 

 

 

July 13, 2016 by Emily Steiger

June Sew-A-Long {Day 2}

June SAL day 2

Welcome back!  Yesterday was a fun day of picking out fabrics, trims, and brainstorming what amazing creations we are going to sew up!  Today we must get to work and start putting our pattern together!

Pattern pieces

First things first, print out your June pattern because it's time to start assembling!  I have a few different ways I put my patterns together, but today I am using good old clear tape since I couldn't find my glue stick and this super pregnant Mama was not attempting to search for one!

June dress pdf pattern

 I adore sewing because it let's me customize garments to fit my child perfectly!  I need to mash my sizes, since my daughter is petite!  I mash size 2 width with size 3 length.  Make sure you measure your child before cutting!  This dress has a fitted bodice, and therefore in order for the back to lie right, you need to measure measure measure!  Since I've already sewn this dress before and I know my daughter is narrow in the shoulders, I will likely take a wider seam allowance {SA} on the back bodice so that the fit is spot on!  

With that out of the way, cut and assemble the pattern pieces.  There are cutting charts for the center, side, and back skirt pieces, so printing those pattern pieces are not necessary.  And don't forget about cutting your elastic and tie pieces too!  If you don't want to use fabric for your ties, take a look through your trims!  Lace, ribbon, ric-rac, etc. are all great options!

Pattern pieces

Once your pattern in assembled it is time to start cutting your fabric.  This took my longer than normal since I was using fabric that needed to by {fussy cut}.  I don't always do this, but it was a must this time around.  

fabrics

Cut out all pattern pieces for your bodice and pockets in both your main and lining fabrics.  Your skirt only needs to be cut in the main fabric.  Once you are done, you should have a lovely pile of gorgeousness just screaming to be sewn!  

june fabrics

All those pretty fabrics are just going to have to wait until tomorrow though, since Day 2 is officially {OVER}!  Easy peasy, right??  When you have everything cut out, snap a photo and head over to the Day 2 Album and upload your photo!  Remember to add in the folder and not in the comments so you can be counted for today and qualify for the awesome giveaway at the end of the week!  

SAL schedule

Tomorrow we begin sewing the bodice!  {YAY}!!!  If you missed Day 1 you can read over it here.  See you tomorrow for Day 3 of the {June} Sew-A-Long!

July 12, 2016 by Emily Steiger

June Sew-A-Long {Day 1}

VFT June SAL day 1

It's day 1 of our much anticipated June Sew-A-Long.  June is one of our newest patterns and features a showstopper of a back, along with over-sized pockets perfect for all the treasures your little one is bound to find exploring!  Who's ready to start???

June Dress VFT pdf pattern

If this is your first Sew-A-Long, then welcome!  We are excited you decided to join us!  If you've participated before, you know that Day 1 is a fun and easy day.  Today, we pick fabrics and buy the pattern.  Since we announced the pattern during our huge summer sale, I bet most of you already picked up the pattern!  YAY!!!  If not, head over to the shop and pick up June now!!!  

VFT June dress

Let's get those creative juices flowing, ladies!  Time to head to the store, run to your sewing room, pay your Mom a visit and raid her stash.  Whatever way you choose is fine, but search through those fabrics and find something that speaks to you!!  Choose those fabrics!!

fabrics

I am on a spending freeze {booooooo} which means no fabric shopping for me, so shopping in my fabric stash is where I must go.  I searched for what seemed like hours, and finally struck gold!!!  I found this lovely Lulabelle fabric main in navy I had left from the fantastic Lulabelle blog tour!  {SCORE} Seriously, I thought I used all of this and was soooo happy to find I have more than enough for a gorgeous June Dress!!!  I'm pairing it with this oh so sweet pink and white polka dot from Dear Stella.  You simply can't go wrong with a polka dot!  And of course I found this gorgeous lace!  I think this lace must adorn my June bodice!  

June Dress pdf pattern VFT

So now we've chosen our fabrics and purchased out pattern, it's time to snap a photo.  Head on over to the FB group and upload your photo into the Day 1 photo album!  And with that, we are {DONE} for the day!  Super easy and super quick!  Tomorrow we print and assemble our pattern pieces and cut out our fabrics.  

June SAL Schedule

We are so excited to be sewing with you this week.  We look forward to seeing all of your amazing creations!  And because we love a good giveaway, participate in our sew-a-long, upload your photos into the daily albums by 7/18/16, and you will be eligible to win an awesome prize pack!  One lucky person will win a VFT 5 pattern prize pack PLUS a $50 gift card to Hawthorne Threads!  Who wouldn't love to win that!!   Have fun and we will see you back here tomorrow!  

 

 

 

July 11, 2016 by Emily Steiger

Introducing {Lauren} + Michael Miller Fabric Giveaway

Lauren Dress pdf pattern VFT

Everyone has that one summer dress in their closet that they love.  It fits perfectly, looks fantastic, and makes them feel like a million bucks!  With summer here, we couldn't resist releasing what we know will be your new favorite summer dress!  

Lauren dress pdf pattern VFT

Lauren is the perfect baby doll dress.  So posh and on trend, Lauren will capture the hearts of all the ladies you know, without sacrificing style!  We are bringing you Lauren in two size ranges!  Get the Baby Lauren in sizes 0/3-18/24, or the Girls version in sizes 2T-10Yrs.  This pattern is sure to impress ladies of all ages!

Lauren dress pdf pattern VFT

We know how much you all love versatile patterns, and Lauren will not disappoint.  With so many options, Lauren is one pattern you are bound to make again and again, each one looking different from the last!  

Lauren dress pdf pattern VFT

Bodice was modified to fit fabric design

Go for a no frills look and choose a simple bodice and single layer skirt.  Such a lovely look for everyday wear, this dress if perfect if you want a quick and easy sew!

Lauren dress pdf pattern VFT

Looking for something with a few more details?  Choose a pin-tucked bodice and skirt.  Such a classic look that is sure to turn heads!

Lauren dress pdf pattern VFT

Lauren even includes a double skirt option with ruffles, because who doesn't love a ruffled dress!  This option is a real showstopper!  Lauren is the perfect pattern to get those creative juices flowing.  Let your creativity run wild by adding trims, lace, and ric-rac.  

Lauren dress pdf pattern VFT

If you are looking for a pattern that allows you to showcase multiple fabrics, then you definitely need to pick up Lauren.  It is perfect for showing off numerous fabrics and combining patterns.  

Michael Miller Fabrics

Magic by Sarah Jane

Want to really make your dress sparkle?  Check out Sarah Jane's newest line, Magic, for Michael Miller Fabrics.  We are in {LOVE} with this line and couldn't wait to sew up Lauren in all these amazing fabrics.

Lauren dress pdf pattern VFT

So lovely to sew with and buttery soft, the Magic line will have you reliving your childhood.  The gorgeous colors, amazing artwork, and whimsical details are bound to take you on a magical ride!

Lauren dress pdf pattern VFT

Lauren was lucky to be one of the dresses used to promote the Magic line, and we couldn't be happier!  We adore how this pattern looks in this amazing fabric line and know you will too!

Magic line from Sarah Jane for Michael Miller Fabrics

Michael Miller Fabrics has generously donated 2 fabric kits so you can recreate this exact look at home!  How amazing is that?!?!?!  Each kit includes 3 yards of fabric!  You will receive Magical Parade, Stars and Stripes, and Lucky Stars.  Enter below for your chance to win!  Contest ends midnight 6/25/16.

Lauren Dress pdf pattern VFT

How about a chance to win a copy of Lauren for free?!?!  Visit our FB page for details on how you can get a copy of this pattern for yourself!  And check back later this week for more info and photos of Lauren!   Use code: Lauren to receive 15% off the pattern price and bundle now through Saturday!

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

June 23, 2016 by Emily Steiger

Introducing {Lilly & Camille}: Summer Staples

Lily and Camille pdf pattern bundle VFT

Wardrobe staples are essential not only for women but for little ladies too.  It's great to have those few patterns that you know you can make quickly, don't use too much fabric, and know fit our child perfectly.  

VFT Basics Collection

We are excited to announce the launch of our newest line for VFT, the Basics Collection.  This collection consists of affordable wardrobe staples that are the perfect patterns to make time and time again.  

Lily shorts pdf pattern from VFT

Lily shorts pdf pattern from VFT

Lily shorts pdf pattern from VFT

The first pattern in this collection is our highly anticipated Lilly Shorts.  This pattern is the perfect summer short.  Coming in sizes 2t-10, these shorts are a quick and easy sew and perfect for little ladies as well as older girls.  This pattern features some amazing details, including being fully lined for a professional look.

Lily shorts pdf pattern from VFT

Lily shorts pdf pattern from VFT

Lily shorts pdf pattern from VFT

We know you will love this pattern because there are tons of options.  If you are longing to be creative, then this is the pattern for you.  Included are instructions for adding, lace, bias trims, pom-poms, ruffles, or other decorative trims.  Such a fun addition to the shorts, and a great way to add some pizzazz to your shorts.

Lily shorts pdf pattern from VFT

Lily shorts pdf pattern from VFT

Want a more versatile look?  Leave off the trims and go with a more streamlined look!  We love the look of Lilly without any added trims!  So pretty!

Lily shorts pdf pattern from VFT

The Lilly shorts have a slim to moderate fit with a lower rise waistband.  The waistband is elastic, provided comfort and ease.  Not a fan of elastic waists, no worries!  Included are some tips on how to make these a "Faux flat front" short!

Lily shorts pdf pattern from VFT

Lily shorts pdf pattern from VFT

Dress these shorts up or down, they will be the most versatile pair of shorts in your little one's closet!

Camille Top pdf pattern from VFT

Looking for something to pair with your shorts?  The Camille Top is the perfect summer top and is the second pattern in our Basics Collection.

Camille Top pdf pattern from VFT

Camille Top pdf pattern from VFT

Camille Top pdf pattern from VFT

The Camille Crop Top comes in sizes 2t-10 and is the perfect top for any level sewist.  Camille sews up in about an hour and is just what you need if you love {instant gratification}.  

Camille Top pdf pattern from VFT

Camille Top pdf pattern from VFT

Boasting a flattering a-line fit and elastic back, Camille is a great pattern to grow with your little one and allow it to be worn through multiple seasons.  It also comes in both hip and crop lengths, allowing for even more versatility!

Camille Top pdf pattern from VFT

Camille Top pdf pattern from VFT

Camille is fully lined with enclosed seams for a professional look.  It is a great top for those who have little ones who are sensitive to seams!

Camille Top pdf pattern from VFT

Camille Top pdf pattern from VFT

Camille Top pdf pattern from VFT

If you are looking for a pattern that allows you to express yourself creatively, then you should definitely take a look at this top.  Camille is the perfect canvas to show off that vintage lace you've been holding onto or adding a monogram or other embellishment.

Camille Top and Lilly shorts pdf patterns from VFT

Camille Top and Lily shorts pdf patterns from VFT

Both Lilly and Camille include full step-by-step instructions with color photos, line drawings, and size charts.  Easy to print and quick to sew, you these patterns are ones you won't mind sewing over and over again!

Camille Top and Lily shorts pdf patterns from VFT

Camille Top and Lily shorts pdf patterns from VFT

Camille Top and Lily shorts pdf patterns from VFT

You can pick up your copy of both Lilly and Camille now!  Need them both?  Pick up the bundle at a discounted price that is sure to make you smile.  If you haven't already picked up our new Sommer pattern but are yearning to sew that too, you can still grab our Summer mini-collection bundle that includes all three patterns!  

Camille Top and Lily shorts pdf patterns from VFT

Camille Top and Lily shorts pdf patterns from VFT

Camille Top and Lily shorts pdf patterns from VFT

A special thanks to all our testers who knocked it out of the park once again!  Make sure to share all your Lilly&Camille creations with us over on our FB Page!  And come follow us on Twitter and Instagram to see sneak peeks and sales!

June 15, 2016 by Emily Steiger

Introducing {June} : The Quintessential Summer Dress

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

Summer is upon us.  The warm weather and shinning sun are beckoning for us to come and play, and that means it's time to bust out all those fantastic summer dresses!  For most, it's the time of year they scour their closets searching for the perfect dress.  For us, it's the time we search through our computer files trying to find all those amazing sundress patterns we had to purchase!

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

June dress pattern from VFT

June dress pattern from VFT

 You can stop your searching right now, because we have got the perfect summer dress for you.  Please welcome June to the VFT family.  June is the epitome of the quintessential summer dress.  Ranging in sizes 2T-10, all the little ladies in your life are going to be begging you to make them one!

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

The simple front bodice is the perfect juxtaposition to the back.  The front is a fantastic place for some extra details.  Add in some lace or a monogram.  Leave it plain for a more simple look.  Either way you can't go wrong.

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

The top back closes with a bow tie while the rest of the back is left open.  The open back is definitely a showstopper and will {WOW} all those who see it!  The bottom back features two rows of elastic, making the fit not only comfortable but able to grow with your little one.  this is a dress that will get tons of use and last for a long time!

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

June has a fitted sleeveless bodice, a polished look perfect for hot days and long summer nights.

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

The skirt on June is really attractive, using a single front panel flanked by 2 side panels and one back panel, giving tons of volume!  Sew the skirt in a single fabric, or use a coordinating fabric for the side panels.  2 totally different but amazing looks!

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

No dress is complete without pockets, and June is no exception!  The over-sized side panel pockets are the perfect size for all the treasures your little one can carry!  Add on your favorite trims to make these pockets extra special!  There are even instructions for faux piping!  

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

June dress pdf pattern from VFT

We know June will steal your heart!  Pick up your copy now through Friday, June 10th, and use code: JUNEDRESS for 15% off!  And don't forget to hop on over to our FB Group and share your lovely creations with us!  As always, a huge thanks to all the lovely testers for making such amazing dresses! 

June 08, 2016 by Emily Steiger

VFT Spring Sewing Retreats: {A Look Inside}

VFT sewing retreats

This past March and April, Ericka and Jessica opened up the VFT studio to you, the best customers ever, and welcomed you to come sew, eat, and sew-cialize!  It was a chance to get a sneak peek at the new summer line, sew with some {AMAZING} fabrics, and get to know each other better!  2 full days of sewing, is there anything better???

Sewing retreat

The VFT Sewing Retreats are the perfect chance for you to escape your daily routine.  No driving kids to and fro, no cooking meals or doing laundry, no hearing "Mom, Mom, Mommy, Mama, MOOOOOOOM!" over and over agin.  It's a chance to recharge and spend some time with good people, good food, and sew until your heart's content!

VFT Grace Dress

 And what is sewing without good fabrics??  You can have the best pattern ever, but fabric is what makes it come to life!  It can make or break it.  And that's why we teamed up with some of the best in the business to provide our attendees with the cream of the crop fabrics!

Art Gallery Fabrics Michael Miller Fabrics

 

Art Gallery Fabrics and Michael Miller Fabrics generously sponsored our Spring Retreats and provided all the fabrics used!  Isn't that amazing?!?!?  Our lovely friends got to sew with some of our most favorite fabrics ever!  In the coming weeks, we will be focusing more on each fabric line, along with some amazing giveaways, so stay tuned!!!

Fleet&Flourish

Forrest Floor

Anna Elise

Fleet & Flourish, Forrest Floor, and Anna Elise were the amazing Art Gallery fabric lines all attendees had a chance to get their hands on.  Fresh, fun, and so lovely to work with, these fabrics paired beautifully with our summer patterns!

Sarah Jane Sommer

Sarah Jane Sommer from Michael Miller fabrics screams summer and we knew it would be the perfect fabric to showcase our summer line.  

We know you are all dying to know what a VFT Retreat is like, so let's pretend for a moment that we are all there.  First up was the Welcome Mixer.  This was the perfect opportunity to get to know each other over appetizers and drinks.  Some looked around the studio while others got acquainted with the patterns they would be using for the next two days.

After a fabulous nights sleep, all were invited to come have a lovely breakfast at the studio and get ready for day one!  This was the first day of sewing and by the end of the day, everyone had a beautiful garment done and ready to pack away to take home!  

VFT Sewing Retreat breakfast

A retreat wouldn't be complete with out delicious food.

Here is a sampling of our food.

Day 1 Breakfast included a Bourbon French Toast Bake or a Bacon and Onion Quiche along with fresh fruit and Mimosas to drink. 

Day 1 Lunch included either a Chicken Salad on a Croissant or a Gourmet BLT with cream cheese tomato spread on a Coissant with a Strawberry Side Salad. 

Day 2 Breakfast included a Donut and Biscuit Bar, complete with "all the fixins", and of course, Mimosas if you feel so inclined. 

Day 2 Lunch included a Gourmet Hot BBQ Potato Bar with "all the fixins", again. 

Hungry yet? Let's get back to the retreat.. 

Lunch at VFT

Craftsy bag winners

Day one is full of sewing and delicious food, not to mention some awesome swag bags full of all kinds of goodies!  And how about door prizes???  Craftsy graciously donated 2 bag kits for us to give away!

Dinner out

Dinner on day one was a much welcomed retreat to Historic Downtown Thompson's Station, where we all ate, drank, and were very, very merry!  Such a nice time with good friends! 

Sewing day 2

Day two starts with another yummy breakfast at the studio!  After you've fueled up, it's time for a morning full of sewing!  This is when the sewing of garment #2 starts. 

Just in case you get a little hungry in between meals, each day offered lovingly handmade snacks. Milk and cookies anyone? 

yummy treats

Just like day one, day two also includes some amazing food and snacks delivered right to the sewing studio.  After some much needed lunch, it's time to get back to sewing and finishing up that second garment!  {we recommended bringing that glass of sangria upstairs to the studio with you}. 

Mila Dress VFT

VFT Marjorie Dress pattern

Lainey Top pdf pattern

We were blown away by the {STUNNING} garments all of the attendees created!  Everyone did such amazing work, we only wished there was more time to keep sewing!!

group one retreat photo

VFT Sewing Retreat 2016

VFT Spring sewing retreat 2016

After some photos and farewells, it was time for the retreat to come to an end.  It was bittersweet to say the least.  The VFT ladies were beyond happy to get to know each and every person who was able to attend and finally put faces to names!  

VFT Lainey top pdf pattern

Grace Pdf Pattern

The sewing retreats are an amazing time and these past spring retreats were among the best!  We can't wait for 2017's retreat, and we hope you will come and sew with us!

Mila romper pdf pattern

 Paige pdf pattern

Thanks to everyone who took time out of their busy schedules to come and sew with us!  We look forward to many many more opportunities to see you again, and we thank you so much for your loyalty and friendship!  All patterns used at the retreat are available on the website.  Make sure to pick up your own copy of Grace, MilaPaige, Marjorie, and Lainey.  We'd love to see your creations, so make sure to share in our FB group.

For all those who couldn't make it this year, we have a special giveaway for you!  Enter below for your chance to win an awesome {Swag Bag} like the retreat attendees received, full of fabulous sewing goodies!  The contents may vary slightly from the below picture (as all our retreat swag bags varied slightly), but you'll be sure to get at LEAST 6 yards of fabric, yards of trims, sewing notions, and lots of lovely sewing related objects! You have until end of day Friday May 27th to enter!  

VFT Sewing Retreat Swag Bag

{The actual products may vary from the photo slightly}
a Rafflecopter giveaway
May 25, 2016 by Emily Steiger