Scuby Dooby Doo & Giveaway Winner!

31 Oct Scuby Dooby Doo & Giveaway Winner!


Although sewing Halloween costumes are but fond memories these days,  I could not resist the vivid holiday colors in this Scuba Knit ordered from B & J Fabrics.

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What does the dress really look like under the 20-year old Eileen Fisher cardigan, you wonder?

Here is the front,

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and here is the back 😉

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What a fun dress this was to sew!

If you have never sewn with Scuba Knit I encourage you to try it. Many scuba knits feature high-resolution digital printing almost resembling photographs. It is nearly impossible to make a garment too tight when sewing with this fabric  – scuba knit is easy to handle, and at the moment, it  is the fabric of choice for many clothing manufacturers.

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The pattern is McCall’s 6920; a current company pattern and a new pattern for me.

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The black contrast is a fine multi-purpose polyester knit I purchased at Mood Fabrics in November 2013. I bought lots of it and predict it will be showing up with regularity. Once again I followed Sunni Standing’s excellent instructions in the free Craftsy Mastering Zipper Techniques Class.

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After making my usual bodice adjustments in length, I took readers’ advice to heart and made it fitted 🙂

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 but it is anything other than a ‘stand up only’ dress thanks to the stretch!

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 I’ve tried to stick to sewing all-purpose clothes this fall and find dresses so much easier to sew than tops. Why is that?

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Whatever the reason, I’m happy to have a dress that will serve me well through Thanksgiving!

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And now, the lucky giveaway winner of Karolyn Kiisel’s fabulous Draping Book. IMG_0102

C o n g r a t u l a t i o n s   to

ELEANOR SCHREYER

Please contact me by Monday November 3, at goodbyevalentino@gmail.com or another winner will be selected.

Best wishes to all for a fun-filled and safe Halloween 🙂

B O O !

 

goodbyevalentino
goodbyevalentino@gmail.com
78 Comments
  • Fiona M
    Posted at 08:50h, 31 October Reply

    What a fabulous dress! I especially like the exposed zipper and the black contrast panels. Beautiful work as always.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 10:59h, 31 October Reply

      Many thanks, Fiona!

  • Sew, Jean Margaret
    Posted at 09:44h, 31 October Reply

    Beautiful dress. This fitted style really suits you well and I love the black contrast. Isn’t scuba knit great. So easy to sew. I have made a Style Arc Fay skirt in a beautiful mosaic print in scuba knit and I love it.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 10:58h, 31 October Reply

      Thank you, Jean! Scuba knit is fantastic 🙂 !!

  • Bonnie Johnson
    Posted at 10:10h, 31 October Reply

    What a beautiful dress! I wish I had your fashion sense!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 10:57h, 31 October Reply

      Many thanks for your nice comment, Bonnie! I don’t always get it right, but I thought long and hard on this one 🙂

  • nique et
    Posted at 10:25h, 31 October Reply

    This is beautiful! I love the contrast in the back. 🙂

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 10:56h, 31 October Reply

      Thank you, Nique!

  • Tina Spear
    Posted at 10:52h, 31 October Reply

    Very nice, Sarah. Can you give a short tutorial on how you inserted the exposed zipper?

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 10:56h, 31 October Reply

      Thank you, Tina! It’s not really exposed, otherwise all of the zipper tape would be on the outside of the dress. As I mentioned, I followed the Craftsy class on inserting the zipper and chose to expose just a little of the tape to provide contrast. I believe Craftsy may offer a PDF tutorial on exposed zippers 🙂

  • Fran Giacobbe
    Posted at 11:09h, 31 October Reply

    Your pattern selection is always the BEST!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 19:49h, 31 October Reply

      Thank you, Fran! I think this pattern is a keeper 🙂

  • Mary Glenn
    Posted at 11:11h, 31 October Reply

    I always love a red/black/white combo. Looks like it’s very comfortable to wear.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 19:54h, 31 October Reply

      Hi Mary! Many thanks for the comment – the dress is super comfortable 🙂

  • Jan Crews
    Posted at 11:20h, 31 October Reply

    Well, Sarah, another great dress. Congrats!

    I’m curious about the breathability of the fabric. Do you feel like you’re wearing a wet suit?

    Thanks!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 19:57h, 31 October Reply

      Thank you, Jan! The fabric is not as thick or as slippery as a wet suit. It doesn’t have the rubbery feel of a wet suit either. To me scuba knit is a great cool weather fabric. It doesn’t itch like wool and it’s warm due to the weight. I hope to sew with it again 🙂

  • Cissie Wellons
    Posted at 11:21h, 31 October Reply

    What a great, fun dress. The fit is amazing. I’m anxious to try scuba knits but haven’t taken the plunge yet. You inspire me!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 19:57h, 31 October Reply

      Thank you, Cissie! You will thoroughly enjoy the fabric 🙂

  • Carolyn
    Posted at 11:30h, 31 October Reply

    The dress is lovely and your fabric choices are wonderful! This is a great pattern, thanks for highlighting it!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 19:58h, 31 October Reply

      Thanks, Carolyn! I look forward to seeing what you do with this pattern!!

  • Lydia Weathersby
    Posted at 11:33h, 31 October Reply

    Good job (as usual)! Love the fabric and the exposed zipper – everything about it.
    Lydia

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:00h, 31 October Reply

      Many thanks, Lydia! The zipper is not really considered exposed since the zipper tape is not sewn on the outside of the dress. I did expose a fraction of the tape just to provide some contrast and I am very pleased with the result!

  • Ann-Britt Uhrbom
    Posted at 11:39h, 31 October Reply

    I don´t know exactly what scuba knit are. I haven´t heard about here in Sweden. When I try to find a translation for scuba Googles translation tells me that it has something to do with “breathing underwater” and that can not be right when it comes to fabrics. In any case, your dress is fabulous and the colors makes me really happy. I specially like the contrasting panels and the visible zipper. Happy Halloween!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:24h, 31 October Reply

      Thank you, Ann-Britt! Scuba knit is a double knit fabric of polyester and lycra with a very fine gauge and a very smooth surface. It is heavier than other polyester knits and is a dream to sew.
      The translation is correct as scuba diving is swimming and breathing underwater with equipment. LOL!
      I think the fabric is called scuba knit due to a very slight similarity to wet suit material.

  • Irene
    Posted at 11:55h, 31 October Reply

    What a wonderful dress! The black panels set off the print so beautifully.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:25h, 31 October Reply

      Thank you, Irene! Like I said it was fun to make 🙂

  • Rachel Busby
    Posted at 12:01h, 31 October Reply

    LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the black panels in the back! Great job.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:25h, 31 October Reply

      Thank you so much, Rachel!!

  • Julie Starr
    Posted at 12:09h, 31 October Reply

    Love this one, Sarah! You’ve overlooked no detail and it shows. I normally take the easy way out with knits and don’t go to the trouble of inserting a zipper but yours adds so much style. I’ve not seen this pattern before and it’s going straight onto my wish list so thanks for featuring it. Happy Halloween!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:26h, 31 October Reply

      Thank you so much, Julie – Happy Halloween to you too!

  • Mary Funt
    Posted at 12:11h, 31 October Reply

    I also would like to know how scuba knits feel to wear. Great looking and I agree with others that the fitted styles flatter you. I’ve never worked with this fabric but may look for it on my next trip to NY.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:28h, 31 October Reply

      Mary, The fabric is slightly heavy and warm in my opinion. but very comfortable! I think you will like it and wear it well 😉
      Many thanks for the comment!

  • Susan
    Posted at 12:29h, 31 October Reply

    Great dress! I’ve wondered about the metal zippers in the backs of dresses and tops. Is there a potential for scratching furniture when sitting on wooden chairs and benches?

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:30h, 31 October Reply

      Thank you, Susan! I think the potential for scratching furniture with a metal zipper is very slim 🙂

  • Diane Fetters
    Posted at 12:47h, 31 October Reply

    What a “show stopper”….applause! Beautiful and, yes, stunning! Happy my first shipment of scuba knit has arrived and on my way to purchase the pattern you have featured.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:31h, 31 October Reply

      Many thanks, Diane and good luck with your scuba project!

  • GayleMI
    Posted at 13:07h, 31 October Reply

    The dress is a winner and you look fabulous in it! Love the happy print!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:31h, 31 October Reply

      Thank you so much, Gaylemi!

  • Marion Wilhelm
    Posted at 13:13h, 31 October Reply

    Dresses are so much more versatile than tops! Tops require bottoms but dresses need nothing and can, for the most part be dressed up or down. Dresses are cooler in the summer, too. I noticed that a lot of the designers were using scuba/ technical knits in the NY Times following of Fashion Week. You are right on top of things!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:32h, 31 October Reply

      Well it sure is nice to know I’m in the zone at the moment! Many thanks, Marion 🙂

  • Amanda S.
    Posted at 13:26h, 31 October Reply

    Great dress! Adore the fabric.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:34h, 31 October Reply

      Thank you, Amanda! Can’t wait to hear about the new babe 🙂

  • DJ Bush
    Posted at 13:48h, 31 October Reply

    OMG! What a beautiful dress. And it looks so good on you. Thank you for sharing.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:35h, 31 October Reply

      Thank you so much, DJ!!

  • Bev
    Posted at 14:00h, 31 October Reply

    I LOVE this dress. Gorgeous on you! And the fabric is awesome!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:35h, 31 October Reply

      I really love it too, Beth! Many thanks for the comment 🙂

  • MaryEllen Pendleton
    Posted at 14:42h, 31 October Reply

    Very nice job Sarah ! I’ve not been a fan of exposed zippers but you just might change my mind as this looks great.
    I also wonder about the breath ability of the scuba knit as I live in AZ .
    Thx for your great inspiration

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:37h, 31 October Reply

      Thank you, Maryellen! Personally I think the fabric would be warm for Arizona, but what do I know 😉 It is a very comfortable fabric but I would break out in a sweat wearing this in the desert heat.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:39h, 31 October Reply

      PS……. I’m not sure the zipper would be considered an exposed zipper since the zipper tape is not sewn on the right side of the fabric. I consider it more of a slotted zipper with a small exposed portion of zipper tape. I truly like the result 🙂

  • Donna
    Posted at 15:13h, 31 October Reply

    I like the way the black is a surprise in the back panels, as you don’t see them face on from the front. The scuba knit is a polyester knit, that is very comfortable to wear, stretches and is cool to the touch, for those of you who are asking what it feels like. I have made a couple of pairs of stretch pants in them in the summer, and they do not pill, and feel very comfortable. I love how the print looks on Sarah’s dress–almost like a porcelain print. It is lovely on you.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:40h, 31 October Reply

      Thank you so much, Donna and great explanation of scuba knit fabric 🙂

  • Vick Gianniny
    Posted at 15:14h, 31 October Reply

    I have never heard of scuba knit before but it’s very pretty! As always, you did a fantastic job with the dress.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:40h, 31 October Reply

      Thank you so much, Vick! I recommend the fabric 🙂

  • Tia Dia
    Posted at 15:28h, 31 October Reply

    Love the back details on this dress. Gorgeous!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:41h, 31 October Reply

      Thank you, Tia Dia!!

  • Lisa C
    Posted at 17:15h, 31 October Reply

    Lovely dress — especially with the contrast.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:41h, 31 October Reply

      Many thanks, Lisa!

  • Chris Johnson
    Posted at 17:35h, 31 October Reply

    Sarah, this is a terrific and versatile dress with gorgeous colors and styling. Haven’t tried scuba knit because I keep wondering if it breathes or if you feel encased in it. As another comment suggested, scuba brings up images of underwater wear. Do you know why it’s called scuba knit?

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 20:44h, 31 October Reply

      LOL! I’m not really sure why it’s called scuba knit other than it’s heavy and the fine knit gauge produces a very smooth surface. I believe the fabric content is polyester and lycra. I do not feel encased in it, but I do not want to wear this dress in warm weather 😉
      Many thanks for the comment, Chirs!

  • Barbara gray
    Posted at 22:33h, 31 October Reply

    Great dress, smart and looks so comfortable. Like others though I wonder about the breathability of scuba, haven’t been game to try it myself yet.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:58h, 01 November Reply

      Thank you, Barbara! The fabric, though heavy is very comfortable, but I would not wear a fiited dress in this fabric in hot weather.. I plan to sew it again 🙂

  • Doris Sayer
    Posted at 02:22h, 01 November Reply

    Another inspirational dress, I love your fabric choice, I had been wondering about scuba knits, now I’m willing to give them a try.
    Looking forward to seeing your next creation.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 14:58h, 01 November Reply

      Thank you, Doris! I believe you will enjoy sewing this fabric 😉

  • Margaret Winters
    Posted at 08:57h, 01 November Reply

    Love the dress — the print and colors are wonderful on you, Sarah!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 15:00h, 01 November Reply

      Many thanks, Margaret “)

  • Linda L
    Posted at 12:21h, 01 November Reply

    Lovely dress! I really like scuba knit to sew, and to have the stretch makes it so wearable. Your dress is very flattering and I like the addition of solid black in the back.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 15:01h, 01 November Reply

      Thank you so much, Linda! It really is a great fabric and I hope to sew with again soon 🙂

  • Michele Owens
    Posted at 19:03h, 01 November Reply

    Love the fitted dress on you. You are always an inspiration.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 21:25h, 03 November Reply

      Thank you, Michele – such a nice comment 🙂

  • Michele Owens
    Posted at 19:09h, 01 November Reply

    After making 15 pair of pants since Spring i finally have made a pair i will be able to wear outside the house. Following you has encouraged me to not give up.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 21:27h, 03 November Reply

      LOL – I’ve made some doozies in the last few years, myself!!! I admire your perseverance and now you must be moving forward!

  • Alice Elliot
    Posted at 20:39h, 01 November Reply

    Terrific dress! You look great in a fitted garment. Why not make a top from this pattern? Maybe you just have to find the perfect length to be happier with your tops. I’m short too and know I need my tops to be less than half of my total length unless they’re really snug. So this dress could go all the way down to cover your hips because it’s so fitted. Anyway, I love the dress and the fabric and the surprise contrast in back.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 21:28h, 03 November Reply

      Many thank, Alice – great suggestion!!

  • Eleanor Schreyer
    Posted at 21:26h, 01 November Reply

    I really love your new scuba knit dress…the black panels especially…dress is so interesting front & back….I am “building” my dress in my head as I scroll thru your pictures…[I haven’t used scuba knits yet, but now have it on my list} then I came to the end…and wow! You reveal the winner of “Draping”…can’t believe its me! Of course I emailed you immediately. Thank you so very much. I hope that it inspires you to drape something…Thank you for allowing us all to take this journey with you.

  • Lin Burley
    Posted at 16:06h, 02 November Reply

    You totally rock in this dress!!
    LOVE it= I might actually give it a go!!

  • holly
    Posted at 20:58h, 05 November Reply

    That dress is gorgeous!! You might find sewing a top using this pattern as a template provides a successful fit; the straighter tunic tops might be swamping your petite frame. I guess making a top a little less fitted than the dress would be worth a try?

    PS re your comment about your twenty year old cardigan; I recently, and sadly, retired a pair of twenty year old bespoke shoes that went from best, to every day, to only-worthy-of-home shoes.

  • Ginger
    Posted at 02:45h, 08 November Reply

    What a great print! I LOVE this on you! So good!

  • Jennifer Shaw
    Posted at 17:27h, 25 May Reply

    Wow! Your dress is really amazing. It is such a gorgeous print and the fit is amazing .

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