Learn to Sew: Shift Dress
Nicole Vasbinder
Class Preview
2:01
- In-depth Instruction; over 151 mins
- On-demand video access anytime
- Bonus downloadable PDF resources
- Access to class Q&A
Getting Started
9:36
Meet returning Craftsy instructor Nicole Vasbinder as you get set up for a fun and rewarding class! Nicole walks you through ways to take your own measurements, choose a pattern size, and choose fabrics that will be flattering and easy to work with.
Working With the Pattern
16:51
If you've ever been intimidated by patterns, never fear - help is here! Nicole helps familiarize you with the pattern diagrams and instructions, including tips on how to identify your size and cut the pieces out accordingly. You'll also learn how to mark areas for darts, notches and more.
Marking & Cutting Fabric
27:56
Gain Nicole's expert tips for identifying your fabric's right and wrong sides, selvage and direction, as well as which layout to use based on your fabric's width. Discover how to trace the pattern pieces, cut out your fabric and translate important markings before applying interfacing.
Fusing Fabric & Sewing Darts
15:20
Your careful measuring and cutting has paid off, and now it's time to start sewing your dress! Learn the value of trying test stitches on a sample swatch as you practice making even seam allowances. Next, learn how to stabilize areas of your garment with staystitching techniques and add darts.
Shoulders, Side Seams & Facings
28:19
Sew your front and back dress pieces and shoulder seams together, using the markings you carried over from your pattern pieces to help guide you. Next, Nicole helps you construct the facings, and demonstrates a variety of stitches that you can try out on your seam finishes.
Sleeves
26:16
If you prefer to add sleeves to your dress, learn how to set in the sleeve and ease in the sleeve cap for a snug fit. Along the way, Nicole shows you how to gather fabric, sew and press your sleeves and hem the edges. Finish by using a rounded pressing surface to give the curves a final press.
Contrast Band & Other Finishes
26:34
Create a sleeveless variation of your dress if you wish, using bias tape for a neat, bulk-free armhole finish. Nicole also shows you how to add a beautiful contrast band of fabric to your dress for a fun pop of color, practicing understitching and slipstitching to provide a gorgeous finish.
Create a garment you’ll be proud to wear! Learn how to sew a shift dress as designer Nicole Vasbinder guides you step by approachable step through sewing two versions of a fun, versatile garment. You’ll learn garment construction techniques you can use in any dress, beginning with methods for measuring accurately, choosing the correct pattern size and picking the right fabric. As you sew, Nicole will clarify exactly how to use your pattern and teach you to create even seam allowances, construct your facings and sew perfect darts. Then, you’ll find out how to add set-in sleeves if you prefer them and how to achieve clean, bulk-free results on a sleeveless variation. You’ll even learn how to add fabulous details such as a contrasting band and techniques for a clean finish!
Important Pattern Information
The sewing pattern on which this class is based — McCall’s 6465 —is not included with your purchase and may be out of print — check with online retailers. This class is rich in essential sewing techniques, so if the pattern is out of print, we encourage you to look for an alternative pattern with similar style details. You might also be able to find the original pattern through a private reseller.
Nicole Vasbinder
Nicole Vasbinder is a sewist and instructor who, over the past decade, has spread the joys of sewing to thousands in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond. Formerly a designer and merchandiser in the garment industry, she owns and operates a fabric store and modern sewing school, StitchCraft. You can find NicoleÂ’s designs in her books, Sewing Solutions, Sewing Machine Secrets and Super Stitches Sewing.
Bonus materials available after purchase