Take Two: Butterick 6330
It's not often that I make a pattern twice, especially back to back, but I actually liked Butterick 6330 enough that I've made it four times in a little over a month. (one is not for me). I made it first for my monthly Fabric Mart Fabricista blog post, read it here.
No, there's nothing about this pattern that makes it a standout. It's just a simple sportswear pattern that includes a knee length dress, maxi dress, romper, jumpsuit and jacket. It is comfy and very practical, I've already worn my first jumpsuit two or three times. That's why I knew I needed more. This post in on the maxi dress, view C, but I'm also finishing up a second jumpsuit, View E, that will be up soon.
The maxi dress is even easier than the jumpsuit because it skirts require less seams than pants. I would add 1" to the bodice as I'd like the top to pool more over the waist casing. I didn't have this issue with the jumpsuit even though the bodice pieces are the same. Maybe there's extra length on the pants? The pants were at least 2-3" to long, but the skirt length was perfect (with flats) with a 1" hem. I'm 5'-5" for reference.
Another change I would make would be to eliminate the keyhole back and sew the entire center back seam. The keyhole with button closure is necessary for the jumpsuit as you wouldn't be able to step in through the neck hole, but you can pull the maxi over your head so there's really no need for it. It is a nice touch if you prefer it though.
If you subscribe to my YouTube channel you know that I grabbed this knit from Fabric Mart during their $1/yd precut fabric sale. This diagonal print ITY was a 3yd precut piece so my fabric total for this dress is $3!!! Add elastic for the casing and that may raise it to $4.You can't beat a $4 dress!
I should also mention I used a little less fabric than the envelope calls for because I didn't use a border print fabric. I had probably 1/2- 5/8 or a yard left from my 3yd precut. (The pattern calls for three)
Pattern: Butterick 6330 Pattern Description: Semi-fitted, unlined jacket has self-lined front, side-front seams, long sleeves, and optional topstitching. Sleeveless, pullover dress and pull-on jumpsuit/romper (fitted through bust) have blouson bodice, elastic waist, and back neck slit with button/thread loop. All have stitched hems. A: Wrist-length sleeves. B, C: Side pockets. C: Cut on crosswise grain. D: Purchased tie. D, E:Front pleated pants and side-front pockets.Sizing: XS-M and L-XXL I sewed a M Difficulty: 1/beginner -Fabric Used: Diagonal Stripe ITY from Fabric Mart precut saleDoes it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope? YesWere the instructions easy to follow? VeryLikes: Versatile separates pattern. I love the dress and the jumpsuit. Not sure if I'd make the romper or the jacket.Dislikes: None.Pattern alterations or any design changes made: I didn't, but wish I would've sewn up the back bodice or cut it on the fold.Would I sew it again? Yes, I have another jumpsuit in the works and I could see myself making the shorter dress.Would I recommend it to others? Definitely, great beginners project.Conclusion: A cute and simple maxi dress.