Answer: Something like this.
When I got this fabric on ebay about a year ago I had a plan. Those are little brown flying ducks on a red background and it is the softest brushed cotton. I decided I would make a Peony. Now I love the idea of Colette’s Peony. I love the ones I’ve seen other people make – for example here, here, here and here . I even had a go myself, in navy but I wasn’t happy with the result. Since then no amount of tweaking has produced anything like a decent fit. For now I have accepted that for me it’s not going to work.
I know that the bodice of Simplicity 2444 does fit me, with some minor adjustments. The neckline is a bit gapey, but I thought I had just about nailed it. However with this fabric I didn’t want big pouffy gathered skirt. I wanted something a bit more, well Peony-like. So here it is – top of 2444 with the skirt of Peony. I did a Frankenpattern!
It’s not perfect (Yes, I am aware that this is becoming something of a mantra). I rushed it and the hem is not quite even. You can see above, and here:
- but how often am I going to be walking around like this?
More annoying is the neckline. Still a bit too much gape, which makes the sleeve look funny in the pics as well:
I would like to try to fix it because I love this fabric. I wish the close up pictures had come out better, but they really didn’t show it clearly so I will have to try again in a different light. I can sort the hem out easily and I’m thinking maybe a couple of darts at the back and front neckline? Although that would involve unpicking the facings. I will have to wait (forever) until I am in a patient mood.
You’re too hard on yourself! I never noticed the sleeves?? You look beautiful
You are so sweet! Thank you
How amazing! I did the exact same thing when I made my Peony – however my rayon was not playing nice and the darts were off and it went into the bin! I think Peony was sent to test us all!
Is it bad to say that I’m glad I’m not the only one who struggled? I absolutely loved your version though, the yellow was gorgeous on you.