Up To Take 5.3

It has been awhile and life got in the way. Between having the deck repaired and health issues, I had to put pattern drafting to one side. 

The Hack

In the last post I showed this picture of the surplice bodice. 

That design went downhill rapidly and I tossed it into the garbage. I went on to design #2. It was better but was going downhill with the adjustments I was making. 

And then on to design #3. I decided to go back to a basic bodice and get it to fit properly around the arms. I did the drape method using industrial paper towels and then worked on adjustments. Much better for me. 

I am ready to do the next muslin and if it fits well, add the seam allowances to the neck and armholes and start the surplice bodice once again. Don't ask how this take is 5.3. Take 4 must have been the first take on the basic bodice sloper.

American Girl Surplice Bodice

I did a muslin and it fits perfectly. 

It is ready to be sewn in good fabric with a skirt attached. Jennie is asking for it in a fun fabric. 

Anna's Wardrobe

Before stopping sewing, I made Anna a princess dress for her wardrobe. I used a bodice from the basic dress a friend designed and another friend's idea for the skirt. 

I did pin tucks on the bodice as I wanted to use the pin tucking foot I bought years ago. 

The only thing I did wrong was to have two green panels meet at the center back. Anna likes it but I must try to remember to do it correctly on the next dress I make for one of the other doll's wardrobes. 

It will be back to pattern drafting which could happen as early as this afternoon. I am looking forward to doing working on the bodice design once again. 
PS - My health issues have been high blood pressure and poor kidney function. I am working hard at trying to fix it but in the mean time I rest when tired, drink lots of water, and move forward. 
Happy Doll Sewing..................................