Every month we ask a Love Sewing reader to take one of our free patterns for a spin, so that you can be inspired by a sewist like you. Issue 112 of Love Sewing features Butterick 6446 and we asked Michelle Hiscock to put it to the test.

This pattern is included in your print edition, which you can find in shops all over the UK or order online from our friends at CraftStash.

This dress is all about why I sew. Never in my many shopping journeys have I found a dress that fits me as well as this little number. It was an absolute pleasure to sew. Please indulge me while I share a few nuggets of advice!

This dress is all about why I sew

First, take the size recommendations with a pinch of salt. Instead, look to the finished garment measurements on the pattern pieces. Based on other garments I’ve made, as well as my most loved ready to wear, I know that I prefer this type of dress to have an inch or less of ease at the waist, so that was my starting point. My second suggestion is something that seems so obvious to me now, but it took me quite a while to get my head around. Don’t hesitate to make length adjustments. I compare patterns with the pattern blocks I drafted years ago. My width may have changed a little since then, but my height has remained constant, so it’s a quick and reliable way to determine what length-wise pattern alterations I may require.

I made two versions of this dress, both in quite different fabrics. I knew this version was a little off script as the main fabric is 100% cotton, so I was deviating slightly from the cotton blends recommendation. While I’m pleased with the result, it only worked because I paired it with a lightweight cotton batiste lining; using the same fabric as lining would have left me with too much bulk where the pleats and skirt pieces all meet up. My other version is in a lighter weight, more drapey fabric. I love it equally but did find that the skirt needed lining, so I again went off script. I do not doubt that I will make even more dresses from this lovely pattern!

Say hi to Michelle on Instagram sew_fearlessly_michelle

Buy your copy of Love Sewing Issue 112, including this gorgeous pattern and much more!

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