I came across this pattern because I wanted to make something using quilting cotton. This is the example where you have a specific type of fabric you want to use, then get to find some patterns.
Love Notions Melody Dolman (Affiliate link) caught my eyes immediate cause of its classic look with the modern touch, I love the little knotted thing.
So, I started cutting into the fabrics I got from Joann (Link), which still have about 1 1/2 yd left after I finished Amber's Eden dress (Little Lizard King Link). According to the chart, I needed 2 yds of fabrics... but I was hoping I can get through with only 1 1/2 yd since I will be making size XS and taking a few inches off from the bodice based on my height.
What did I mean? Yes, I am short (5'3") and I was short of fabrics.
However, I was able to cut XS out from 1 1/2 yd fabrics (just a bit missing down to the hem part, but not noticeable once hemmed).
The instructions of the pattern are insanely clear, but I have to say the best part of the pattern is definitely the video of Tami explaining how to construct the collar part.
This was my first time ever making something with the collar, and I was super scared before I started, but the video was a lifesaver (definitely watch it!!). Bonus point, Tami's voice was soooo soothing.
Buttonholes...they almost got me. I never really "test make" my buttonhole in the past, I usually just go with it. But my Melody Dolman was almost perfect, so I just wanted to make sure nothing goes wrong. And that's when my heart sunk.
I tested on a scrap of fabric and tested my zigzag stitches and buttonholes. DISASTER!
I adjusted the tension on my machine, but it doesn't seem to help. So, I posted onto the Facebook group and people were super nice and helpful.
First, I did clean up all the threads and dirt prior to this sewing project. I also inserted a new needle when I first encounter the problem with the buttonhole test.
So, what next?
It turns out that when testing the buttonholes, you need "exact" same fabrics combination, which includes your interface (which is super important to make buttonholes!) and threads combination. So, once I have them correct, my buttonhole turned out to be perfect.
What the Melody Dolman also amazed me was that the pattern included the buttonhole placement! I found it super nice. Most of the patterns I had, they all just say "place buttons on desired places" and I would be like "what? where?" Melody Dolman tells you where to place your buttons!!!!! How perfect.
So, I finished the Love Notions Melody Dolman, and here's how it looks on me. I am 5'3" and 110lb. I made it in quilting cotton, size XS (standard bust) with 2" taken off from the bodice.
The other adjustment I made was that I actually sewed the sleeves in place, not a bit fan of having something "fold it as you wear"... they never stay in place for me. So I sewed them in place (stitch in the ditch).
First, the regular hem. I would say this could be a pretty cute business casual look (maybe change the shoes).
And here comes my sass! Love the knotted version! Perfect for the summer picnic (as I will blend into the picnic blanket really well).
Final thoughts? I wish this also comes in long sleeves version then I'll be able to make them all seasons.
It's a perfect project for a confident beginner if using more stable woven fabrics like quilting cotton here.
Can't wait to make more using other types of woven fabrics, I am thinking of Rayon Challis.
I would probably only take 1" or 1.5" off instead of 2", I think it was just a little bit short.
If you want to make your own, here's the link to Love Notions Melody Dolman (Affiliate link), and here's the Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/lovenotionspatternsupport/), everyone in there is super nice, helpful and inspiring.
Alright, enough talking. I'll see you in my next blog post! Stay tuned!