I thought I was going to hand sew a flapper-style drop-waist dress. The sewing gods are in disagreement, saying yes to the 1920s and no to the flappering.
Several years ago I bought a pattern called The Factory Dress by Merchant and Mills, a British enterprise with designs I really like. There is an elegance to them in their designs that is understated, yet practical, like good-sized pockets! The fabric I chose for this dress is a cotton weave from Japan in a darkish color with white woven rectangles. (I’ll photograph this later.) I cut the whole thing out this afternoon. The question is, should I hand sew it like I was planning, or should I sew it by machine? Something to brood about overnight, as well as whether I should line at least the skirt.
You can find this image on their website, along with some variations. Google “the factory dress” and you will fine even more!
Ink, Yarn & Beer 
Depends on the fabric. If it’s lightweight, and you don’t want the vision of your below-waist body visible to all with the light behind you, line the skirt. That would be more comfortable than a slip, which nobody wears any more anyhow as far as I can tell.
Ah, you are amazing. Follow through and determination is so important, and you have both. Send some of your mojo up to Sacramento! Can’t wait to see the finished dress. Oh, I’d machine sew because I’m basically lazy! And, my hand stitching sucks.
Hey, Anne! Did you get your 503 in for servicing??? That can be its own sewing mojo. I have decided to use a machine, but now I am trying to decide which one. I like to finish all my seams, and I think this material will fray terribly if the seams are not done properly, I have enough leftover material to create tape to cover the seams, or I could fell seam, or French seam, or zigzag the edges. All this will be determined by machine chosen and attachments. I am considering keeping to a machine of the time period, so that would be my handcrank 1920 Singer 66-1, or The Free No 5 treadle. Decisions!
Hi Kathy – I think the fabric could use a lining in the skirt. It is a rather gauzy material, but it isn’t gauze. Consequently I think it would add to the body of the skirt as well as provide modesty. Then the decision – white or black lining. And what sewing machine to use. Etc.
How is your new sewing machine working out for you?
-N- You are amazing, yes, I’ve said that before! How many sewing machines and cameras do you have and use? I haven’t taken my 503 in for servicing yet. I’m just getting out into stores and have been focusing on learning the new camera. The old girl is sitting in the sunroom on top of her table just waiting. I know if I put her away, she’ll never get repaired. Maybe this week.
Hi Anne – to answer your question about cameras and sewing machines, let us just say I have too many!